Intel wants to clean up my coworker’s rat’s nest.
Now in its 34th year, Computex has become one of the largest and most popular computer expos for technology fans around the world. Over 130,000 visitors and 1,700 exhibitors make the annual trip to Taipei to catch up on the latest news, get a sneak peek at upcoming gadgets, and watch keynote presentations from all the biggest technology brands. Not one to disappoint their audience, Intel made a bold prediction at this year’s event: There will be no need for PC cables by the year 2016.
According to Intel’s Senior Vice President, Kirk Skaugen, their next-generation platform – codenamed “Skylake” – will have no need for PC cables. Using a new protocol called WiGig, screens and other peripherals will be able to connect wirelessly at speeds of up to 7Gbps whenever a tablet or laptop is within range. When connected, users will be able to project what’s on their device to any screen that is linked to their system.
For power, Intel has partnered up with Rezence, a wireless power transfer technology based on the principles of magnetic resonance. By installing a charging system underneath a table’s surface, any device that is placed on top of it will conduct a charge. Also, unlike most charging mats that can only charge one device at a time, Rezence is able to charge as many as you can fit on top of the surface – even if it’s through two-inches of wood.
As the line between PCs, laptops, tablets, and phones keeps getting more blurred; the future may only require you have one device for everything you do. Imagine docking your phone in your car for GPS navigation, on your desk at work for doing your job, and next to your TV at home to watch your favorite movie. It may sound farfetched, but 2016 is right around the corner and if you’re anything like Intel’s president, you’re looking forward to it.
“The lines between technology categories are blurring as the era of integrated computing takes hold where form factor matters less than the experience delivered when all devices are connected to each other and to the cloud. Whether it’s a smartphone, smart shirt, ultra-thin 2-in-1, or a new cloud service delivered to smart buildings outfitted with connected systems, [we] have the opportunity to accelerate and deliver the value of a smart, seamlessly connected and integrated world of computing.”
— Renée James, Intel Corporation President
Are you looking forward to a future without cables or will you miss your rat’s nest?
