May 22, 2014
Like many business leaders today, my desk is covered with devices. A laptop, a smartphone, a desk phone, a tablet. The list goes on. But for years, I have been sharing my desire to have one device that I can easily carry anywhere and be able to seamlessly do my work at my desk or anywhere in the world.
Mobilityis important in today’s culture and certainly the working world. The challenge has been to have a device that is small enough to carry while comprising the functionality of the traditional desktop devices we’re accustom to.
Technology is advancing and we’re getting close to my wish for one device. Here’s a look at some of the new technology and how it’s creating a truly modern, mobile office with one device:
- The core device
I just got a Samsung Galaxy S5 smartphone and among the best features this device offers is the ability to use a Bluetooth mouse and a Bluetooth keyboard. This mouse functionality is currently only available through the Android operating system, not Apple’s iOS. You can even connect this device to a monitor wired or wireless to make it easier to navigate and work. This is a big deal. Why? This small device actually has more power and functionality than most laptops. It only costs $200 with a contract. The Galaxy S5 is fast and with a thin client (such as Citrix or VMWare View), I can access everything I would normally from my virtual desktop. This is the next big thing and I expect more manufacturers to follow suit. - Virtual keyboard and mouse
New technology makes it possible to project a full-size keyboard on any flat, opaque surface. It is compatible with most Bluetooth enabled devices to allow you to type away – even with simulated key click sounds – on your smartphone or tablet. This tiny device, made by Epic and sold by ThinkGeek, is a little larger than a matchbox and available for just under $100. It also doubles as a multi-touch mouse. It is powered by a Lithium-ion battery and comes with a micro USB cable for charging. The keyboard contains 68 keys and a full-size QWERTY layout. It allows you to type up to 350 characters per minute and for up to two hours. - Wireless monitor
I see wireless monitors helping drive this type of technology. With Samsung’s screen mirroring system, Apple TV and other new technologies, workers can walk into their “office” with their smartphones – the new computer – and continue working or begin presenting on a larger screen. No wires. It’s seamlessly connected.
Although we are getting close to my one device wish, I feel we are still a few generations away from the perfect device. These advancements in technology will not only reduce the number of devices we need to work effectively and efficiently, but they also are significantly lowering the cost of purchase and total cost of ownership. That’s significant for organizations – and the workers who depend on them. I’m getting ready to clear off my desk and depend on one device. How about you?
