Robert X. Cringely, the pen name for tech journalist
Mark Stephens, recently blogged about a future of computing where smartphones replace desktop computers. That
future began with the launch of iOS 7 and the iPhone 5s, a device as powerful
as some laptops that also enables Bluetooth connectivity.
In fact, he wrote, a move away from desktop to mobile
technology is part of Apple’s strategy.
“Here’s what I expect we’ll see,” Cringely said. “Go to
your desk at work and, using Bluetooth and AirPlay, the iPhone 5s or 6 in your
pocket will automatically link to your keyboard, mouse, and display. Processing
and storage will be in your pocket and, to some extent, in the cloud. Your
desktop will require only a generic display, keyboard, mouse, and some sort of
AirPlay device, possibly an Apple TV that looks a lot like a Google
ChromeCast.”
If Cringely is correct, it could also mean more big
changes in education, according to Joshua Kim in his technology blog for Inside Higher Education. Replacing desktop computers with mobile devices
would allow learning platforms to be merged into mobile apps that could be
updated regularly.
“A desktop-replacement mobile device would enable us to
bundle e-learning content with the e-learning platform,” Kim wrote. “All
curricular materials could be delivered to the mobile device, synced to the
cloud, and designed to work seamlessly with the mobile learning tools.”
