All-in-One PC's

So I walked into Best Buy this weekend and saw their Featured System - a fully integrated computer/monitor. The idea is like Apple's Mac in that the system is all in one. The monitor is the desktop. Looks amazing, and the graphics on the rig were absolutely amazing but it got me asking...is this the wave of the future?

In technology, it's all about rolling everything into one. The XBOX 360 is more than just a gaming console. It can also play HD DVDs. And the same goes for the Playstation 3 except with a Blu-Ray. GPS's also plays MP3's and MP3 players also plays video. The All-in-One concept is a popular one, and it may now be over taking the traditional concept of the Desktop PC.

They are space and energy saving. But then again, they aren't as portable as a notebook or as upgradeable as a desktop. Still, the All-in-One PC I saw at Best Buy was a stunner. I wouldn't be surprised if it ends up a hit. The All-in-One's are perfect for people looking to save space. I wouldn't be surprised if this becomes a staple of the typical office workplace. But as of yet it's a very niche product. If pricing for these products becomes comparable to desktops using the same technology, we could be seeing a definite increase in profitability in this industry.

Smartphones are the Wave of the Future

Nowadays, you need one device to call people, send messages, calculate things, listen to music, take down notes, take pictures and video, wake you up in the morning, read the news, and get directions.

Less than 10 years ago, to do all of those things, you needed a a phone, a computer, a calculator, a music player, a notebook, a camera, a video camera, an alarm clock, a newspaper, and someone who knows how to get places.

Today's 'all-in-one' trend is a fascinating one in that it will eventually signal the end of many industries and the beginning of new ones. What's equally amazing is the speed at which technology does away with entire work forces, industries, and older technologies (and by older, I mean a couple months older). It's just amazing.

The BBC News posted a story about "Why the World is in Your Hands," and is definitely worth a look. It talks about how smartphones are set to take over laptops in the next 12 to 18 months.

It's all about converging everything to the point where we'll have everything we need in our pockets. And there's nothing wrong with that.