GOING DIGITAL

With everyone talking about the future of mobile and the internet of things, tech companies are now looking for the next big thing.

For some, it’s about being the first mover, to create or corner a new niche market. Samsung for example is constantly pushing the boundaries for new products, looking at new form factors and usage models; one of them has got to be the winning ticket right? Google and Facebook have been buying tech startups left and right ranging from home automation to advanced robotics, aritificial intelligence and virtual reality.

For others, it’s about strenghtening their position. Apple, everyone’s favorite market disruptor has been facing pressure of late. Even with strong first quarter sales figures, all eyes are on CEO Tim Cook to pull another bunny out of the hat instead of beating around the bush. They’re last big thing was the iPad in 2010.

I welcome technology as much as anyone...more actually, but I feel that at times we need to put down our geek goggles and take an introspective look at how technology can be really useful. From sliding camera sales to gimmicky smart watches, these are the topics we tackle in this issue of HWM.

We also delve into the positive impact of technology, such as how multi-million dollar CGI effects that are used in movies are making its way into consumer devices that pretty soon, for everyone to have access to. We explore the begining of the robotic invasion of our homes as we roundup the latest robot vacuum cleaners.

Also, in my continuing topic of change, I’m proud to announce more cool things from the HWM team. We’re introducing interactive content on our digital editions of HWM. And if you haven’t checked it out it yet, our bi-weekly digital supplement, HWM Gadgets is now on iOS and Android tablets.

Baby steps, baby steps.