Seattle – Smaller computers with high-definition screens. Increasingly sophisticated video games. Search engines that deliver answers. A unique personal identifier for each phone and Internet user. More blogs.
These are what Microsoft Corp. chairman Bill Gates sees as the future of technology, with his company leading the way.
“This is the most interesting business there is,” Gates said Monday to the Society of Business Editors and Writers, gathered this week in Seattle.
Microsoft is “as big a change agent as there is today or ever has been.” It is the world’s largest software developer, and Gates is the richest man.
He predicted that high-definition technology, which is being used in new televisions, will soon replace conventional computer screens. The result will dazzle the eye and enhance everything from the look of programs to computer games.
“High definition everywhere is going to be a very big thing,” he said. “It’s very addictive. You don’t really want to go back.”
Another big trend will be making computers truly portable, Gates said, where information will be delivered via wireless to hand-held computers.
Gates predicted that Internet journals known as blogs will continue to change how information is disseminated.
“Globalization, free trade is lifting people out of poverty and providing a wonderful deal for consumers in the United States,” he said.
Staff writer Greg Griffin can be reached at 303-820-1241 or ggriffin@denverpost.com.
