future of computer technology

The Future of Computers: From Tubes to Tablets

Recent innovations such as the iPad provide an exciting glimpse into the future of computers. Before looking forward toward future computer trends, let's take a quick look back to gain a better appreciation of the evolution thus far. Do you remember when the first primitive computing machines occupied entire buildings? The massive machines from the mid-20th century consisted of row upon row of vacuum tubes and wires. You had to use stacks of punch cards to program these beasts.

The Future of Computers: Home Computers

Steve Jobs and Bill Gates were both instrumental in bringing the computer down to size. With the introduction of the personal computer and its widespread acceptance, computers shrunk while processing power increased. Even the bulky CRT monitors got a makeover with flat LCD monitors now the norm. In addition, costs have fallen so much over the years that many households own several personal computers and wireless networks. Future technology won't necessarily render the home PC obsolete, but it will change it. For example, modern televisions and appliances are now Web-enabled. Expect future technology to blend appliances into the home network.

The Future of Computers: Laptops, Netbooks, and Ultrabooks

First there were laptops, then there were netbooks, and now there are "ultrabooks." These mobile devices share several characteristics including the integrated folding design and portability. Differences include size and storage (laptops use hard disks, netbooks rely more heavily on the cloud, and ultrabooks use Flash memory). Despite their similarities and differences, future computer trends point to a lesser reliance on keyboards which could potentially render this category obsolete.

The Future of Computers: Tablets

Apple's iPad has significantly influenced future computer trends. It was soon followed by a flood of tablets. With small sizes, simple designs, extreme portability, Internet access, thousands of apps, and loads of features, tablets can do just about anything a full-size desktop or laptop can do. They fall short in the keyboard arena, but again, that may be about to change.

Future Technology: Speech Recognition and Touchscreen Technology

While speech recognition is still imperfect, it has improved greatly in recent years. Windows 7 includes a built-in speech recognition program in its operating system while Nuance's Dragon Naturally Speaking software continues to gain acceptance.
Not only is the keyboard in danger, the mouse is too thanks to touchscreen technology. Tablets and smartphones currently make use of touchscreen technology and many "all in one" desktops now come with touchscreen LCDs. When Windows 8 comes out, it is expected to take the touchscreen into the mainstream.

The Future of Computers has Arrived – Are You Ready?

If history is to be any guide, some of the most powerful advances in the world of computers and computer technology are likely to be completely unforeseen. After all, some of the most powerful technologies of the past have taken us by surprise, so stay tuned for truly fascinating future computer trends. If you're ready to embrace the future of computers, consider getting certified or mastering the skills you need to succeed in today's IT world.