I thought I would have a bit of fun and formulate a few predictions for 2012. The technology space is without a doubt competitive and together with a troublesome economy could lead to a very interesting 2012. The following is based on observations and nothing more (I don’t have access to any company product meeting minutes nor am I an analyst, so please do not consider the following as advice).
- Nokia to be purchased by a larger technology company. If the first 4 months of 2012 does not show great sales numbers, then I think they will become an acquisition target. Possible new owners: Microsoft.
- The co CEO’s of Research in Motion won’t see the end of 2012. Secondly, BlackBerry might also become an acquisition target driven by shareholder anxiety.
- Mobile TV devices such as the DStv Walka will become a must have device for users not wanting to buy a TV. They can also potentially be replaced by smart phones that are more tuned for DVB signal.
- HP to reconsider selling their PC business. I think we all can agree that Meg Whitman (HP CEO) did an unconvincing job to reassure us all on the future of the business unit.
- Samsung to entirely retract from servicing Apple with parts for their devices. It is a matter of time and with Apple considering purchasing an Israeli company that specialises it might become a reality.
- AMD, ARM and NVIDIA to finally become challengers to dismantle Intel’s domination in the CPU space. Tablet computing is the driver of this move.
- The Lytro camera startup to be bought by either Canon or Nikon. I cannot see them staying independent for too long. Their potential to threaten the bigger camera manufacturers will make this happen.
- The Kindle Fire will become the tablet that everyone has. Also I believe very strongly that they will add a 10” version and start shipping the device internationally.
- The Xbox 720 to be the best selling console in 2012. The impact that the Kinect has had on console gaming will ensure that Microsoft add considerably more resources behind the console product.
- Dell to close their tablet operation and focus only on desktop computing. They have already stopped making netbooks.
- If 2011 was the year of the tablet, then I think 2012 might be the year of cloud computing. So hard drive manufacturers, if you have not considered an SSD program maybe also consider acquiring or partnering with a cloud storage company.
- Mophie or Case-Mate will finally save us all from not having any battery life left on that device you want to use. Battery chargers for mobile devices I think are at the tipping point of becoming really indispensible.
