In the ever-changing world of technology, every year sees innovation and engineering excellence delivered to technophiles. Here is a look at what we can expect in 2013:
Firefox OS
Tired of using Android or iOS? The Mozilla Foundation is releasing a revolutionary new operating system based on open web standards – Firefox OS.
The developer preview for Firefox OS was released in January this year. The most exciting aspect of Firefox OS is that it embraces open web standards, which will free users from the restrictions of existing proprietary platforms. Firefox OS also provides a high degree of customizability, allowing service providers to manage customer experiences and user interface designs directly.
Developers are rejoicing as the release of Firefox OS unites two categories, web applications and OS-specific applications, and will also help in the evolution of a powerful set of web APIs, allowing developers to focus on application quality rather than cross platform compatibility. As Mozilla says on their website, “The web is the platform”.
‘Smart-skin’ phones
Samsung has recently filed a detailed patent for a ‘smart-device skin’ which has the ability to wrap any digital image around the phone as a virtual texture. A layer of film will extend beyond the device screen covering the external housing. This will allow the user to choose an image and wrap it around the entire device.
Samsung is planning to integrate this feature into their upcoming devices and also package this technology as accessories for older devices. The concept is futuristic and is a breakthrough in user experience design. Although Samsung may release the basic version of this device later this year, it will take some time for them to harness the full capabilities of this technology.
Google Glasses
Google Glass is a futuristic concept that integrates an LCD or AMOLED display with the software app, Google Goggles. The underlying concept behind their newest offering is wearable computing. Although wearable computing has been explored in the past, this is the first large scale implementation marketed for a mass consumer base.
Google Gasses will deliver an augmented reality experience to its users. When passing by restaurants, theatres and other areas, special offers and new products will appear on the Google Glasses. Users can also communicate with each other over video or IM chat using Google Glasses. The integration of satellite navigation increases the utility of the device.
The Google Glasses will be running an Android operating system with 3G/4G data connectivity. Google will also pack in a front-facing camera with flash, primarily for video conferencing purposes. The developer preview of Google Glasses will be released in the latter half of 2013.
Wireless Charging
Ever wanted to charge your mobile device while enjoying a cup of coffee at your favourite café? 2013 will see more smart-phone manufacturers provide wireless charging capabilities in their devices.
30 companies across the smart-phone ecosystem are joining the Power Matters Alliance (PMA) organization; PMA comprises government leaders and major companies such as Starbucks, AT&T and Google. The PMA is working towards a cable-free wireless power system.
Duracell has started manufacturing portable batteries for wireless charging and Wireless Charging Cards (WiCC) which can be embedded into phone charging systems. Wireless charging has a high adoption rate and it has started its journey towards becoming a future industry standard for handheld devices.
