With the dawn of a new decade during the information age, there is much hope for great things to come. I am going to ramble on as to where I see the trends going. I am not a techno-geek, but as an investor I am always on the hunt.
First, the world of computers. Everything these days has a hard drive. Video cameras, digital cameras, MP3 players and even gaming systems. All of this data costs a lot of money to replace, and many pictures are priceless to the parent of a newborn or the newlywed couple. The trend is going to drive toward home servers to back-up all this data for the savvy and off site back-ups for the average Joe. Those with the knowledge and marketing skills could make a killing.
Next, the touchscreen. This type of technology is in cell phones and supermarkets. People of all ages love it, and it is much easier to figure out than 20-button controllers. Begin to look for this in television remote controls. Now that we are using one remote to control a TV, sound system, DVR, etc., there is an increasing need to simplify the process. Touchscreen remotes are currently very pricy, but once makers come to their senses everyone will need one.
Back to computers. With the home server or off-site server coming to age, there is going to be much less of a need for the DVR and sound systems mentioned above. We can do everything through a computer, and TVs are basically hopped-up computer monitors. Having a centrally based data center will allow for the elimination of thousands of dollars worth of equipment.
The last will be the completion of a current movement…wireless. Wireless mice and keyboards finally are getting to a good point where they are reliable. Bluetooth is proving its worth in the headphone and earpiece world. Soon enough, all speakers will be wireless, and freedom from wires will be granted except for the pesky power cords.
All of these are not far-fetched ideas, and the trends are moving that way. Get ready to live more easily.
