Top 5 Tech Things To Look Forward To In MMXI (2011)

As we usher the new year in, we expect an epoch of changes on the technological front to present themselves to us. Thus, I have taken the pain to compile a list of the top 5 tech things to look forward to in the following year. Here it is:

5) Chrome OS:

With Google’s Android doing well, Google must be feeling pretty optimistic about its forthcoming Linux based OS for computers, Chrome OS. Chrome OS will be available exclusively on specific hardware from Google’s manufacturing partners. While cloud computing has not completely kicked in, Chrome OS is the closest thing and is a step in that direction.Chrome OS is to be a minimalist OS with simply a browser with a built in media player, though designed to work with other web applications as well, and some standard Linux freeware. Notebooks incorporating Chrome OS are expected to ship some time between early and mid 2011.

4) Android:

I know, Android phones are already in the market. So whats there to be excited about in 2011 about the Android? Competitively priced phones that run the Android. Its no secret that the Android OS has been a success in the smartphone market. And importantly, when one considers that Android is available on multiple phones as opposed to Apple’s iOS which is present only on the iPhone, it doesn’t take a genius to predict which way the ball is rolling. But what excites me is the usage of Android as an OS by cell phone companies such as Micromax and Intex. Cell phones of both these companies are very competitively priced and their Android phones could really do well in the market, considering that presently, Android smart phones are on the expensive side.

3) iPad 2:

The success of the original iPad was a surprise to me (as well as some in the industry). Having said this, Apple obviously realizes that the sustainability of its profits from its tablet section will depend heavily on its ability to innovate and add new features to the the next generation iPad. Coupled with the new iOS 4.2, the iPad 2 could wipe out the competition in the tablet market once and for all. With pictures of the case for iPad 2 allegedly being leaked, everyone in the industry is waiting eagerly to hear more from Apple.

2) 3G:

With its predecessor being the major cause for the sacking of telecommunications minister A. Raja, the spotlight is now on 3G. While a couple of service providers have rolled out 3G services, the desired breadth has still not been attained. Accordingly, the success of the 3G story in India will be gauged by its penetrability. Hopefully, with the introduction of 3G, a whole host of gadgets will bare their teeth to show their complete prowess.

1) Mobile Number Portability:

It has taken its time as well as the head of the afore mentioned tainted minister. But amid all the controversy, scandal and sackings, mobile number portability will finally be here in 2011. This will be an important feature in the mobile market as it will blow in a fresh breath of air into the competition. Service providers will be forced into even more cutthroat competition and will have to dish out consistent and quality services at competitive prices to their customers to avoid losing them to their rivals. From the customers’ point of view, it allows them to change their service provider without having to part with their original number.

So, that’s that. Do you think something is missing from this list? Or something that should not be on this list? Feel free to give your suggestions and comments.

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