The computer age demands for faster, smarter and more accurate computers. The theoretical definition of a computer is- 'a machine or device that performs processes, calculations and operations based on instructions provided by a software or hardware program.' In layman terms, on the other hand, a computer can simply be called as a machine that assists a human in its work and makes it easier as well as faster.
It is widely believed that the first computer was built by Charles Babbage somewhere between 1833 and 1871. His vision was to conceive such a device which worked on the principle of finite differences or solving complex mathematical problems by eliminating division and multiplication, hence, using only addition and subtraction. This might sound very difficult and time-consuming but for a computer, it is the complete contrary. He called this device of his the 'Difference Engine'.
Later on, as time went by the image of a computer started to progress. Earlier, a computer used to be a behemoth of a machine which would require a lot of resources to operate. With the development of technology and revolutionary inventions, the size of a computer started to shrink but its capabilities increased drastically. Computers were no longer used just for mathematical calculations but also socializing, entertainment, work and many other aspects of a human's life. Today, a computer can comfortably fit in the palm of your hand. The image of a computer 30 years ago might shock the millennials of today. This does raise a certain spark of curiosity in my mind. How different will the form of a computer today be different than that of one 30 years ahead?
Judging on the basis of the commercially available technology today, it is very difficult to reduce the size of a computer any more. However, with the rate of development in quantum technology, biotechnology, super and semi-conductors, the future might not be as far as we think it is. In 1965, Gordon Moore sketched out his prediction of the pace of silicon technology. According to him, the number of transistors on a chip roughly doubles every two years as their cost goes down. Hence, the equation dictates that the increase in the number of transistors is inversely proportional to the cost of the chip. Decades later, Moore's law remains true. But one might think that the increase in the number of transistors on a chip should increase the overall as size as well, shouldn't it? Well, evidence suggests otherwise. Take the computers 10 years ago and compare them to the latest smart-phones today. Analyze their functionality, compatibility with other aspects of technology and size. The result will be as obvious as the Sun in the morning sky. I will not delve deep into the technical specifications of this technology because, to be honest, it will be relatively boring, wouldn't it? Also, it's not just the processing unit of a computer that is exponentially developing. It is also the storage devices, both internal and external along with memory drives and displays, camera, sound quality, etc.
So with the task of considering so many factors with their independent rates of development, how can one predict the image of a computer 30 years from now. Well, one cant. it can only be imagined, not predicted. Alas, we will still do our best job to 'predict' this subject.
Moore's law predicts doubling, and it has been true so far. However, in the coming years, this can and will change. Instead of doubling, this rate could multiply by much more than double. , When this happens, the results will be astonishing. There might also be the integration of the human body with foreign technology. Augmented reality, enhanced vision, replacing damaged organs, and many more unimaginable features. This could strengthen the virtual connection human beings have with one another through social media. Genetic alterations, DNA replacement and such biological and chemical operations might sound as normal as a rhinoplasty. Computers might not be viewed as a 'device'. But an essential part of a human body. Now this could have some hidden symptoms which could adversely affect society but I will talk about that in another post.
So to the final conclusion of how computers will look 30 years forth. Well, the question itself has a fault in it. We will not be able to 'see' computers in the coming years. Instead, we will FEEL them. ;)
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