ITEC 610 - Week 2

So far in Week 2, we've discussed a variety of topics, from the paperless work environment to computer processing trends, Linux, and the next generation of applications. My assigned question dealt with novel input devices; for this I wrote about the new Logitech MX Air, a mouse that can be used as both a mouse and remote control. As for my thoughts about the other subjects? Some brief comments:

• I think that processors will continue to use the multiple-core architecture, up until the time that the heat and power consumption issues outweigh the performance gains. The real innovations, in my mind, will have to do with smaller chip architectures. We're already at 65nm (down from 90nm), and will likely see 45nm in the near future
• The paperless work environment may never come about. Our productivity suites only help us to create more informative and interesting paper, not necessarily less of it. If anything, we'll reduce the amount of paper waste, but will never see an end to it completely
• Linux will continue to be a fringe OS until some unified support comes behind it and establishes some critical standards. Then again, this may defeat the purpose of an open-source OS, so perhaps it is destined to be an also-ran to Windows. It is important to note, though, that the major computer manufacturers are offering some form of Linux on an increasing number of their products. Could this spawn the golden age of Linux development?
• The next generation of applications will be mobile, seamless in their interaction with other applications, graphically intense, and constantly updated. I doubt we'll see much more of this "Program X 2007" any longer; instead, we'll have continual "v2.0.1.4.11156" type updates. Applications may also become more platform-independent as the demand for synchronous functionality increases