Multimedia is interpreted in its broadest sense to include communication of all kinds. One of the main aims of the time line is to place multimedia development on a continuum that begins with the invention of writing, as part of our continuing quest to communicate. (But actually we begin from the invention of movable type printing.) This is a work in progress. Rough dates are included initially and will be made more precise as we proceed. Sources will be quoted to indicate more precise information. Phonograph image by circlebackstudio - flickr