What Are the Driving Forces?
1. PC functionality is needed at lower prices, with easier user interface or in smaller form factors. Better PC functionality has been with us from the beginning of the PC industry, and it has improved PCs dramatically in the last 25 years. However, current PCs are still not meeting the needs of many potential customers. The information appliance approach is emerging to meet these requirements. 2. Internet access is rapidly becoming a necessity for many people-not just in the office and at home but anywhere and anytime. The result is another pull for lower cost; easier user interfaces and smaller form factors-for Internet access devices. 3. The transition from analog to digital technology for all consumer electronics products and communications products provides an opportunity to make these devices smarter by adding extra functionality. The extra functionality is primarily Internet access, wireless communications and PC functionality. 4. Most developing countries lack communications in
