Tablets pushing other technology to evolve

The evolution of technology can be unforgiving. The emergence of one device often means the end of another. This can be seen right now in the mobile phone market, where smartphones are rapidly displacing cell phones of all forms.

Occasionally, though, the introduction of a new technology merely shifts roles of others, as is evident in today's PC market. When modern tablet computers were introduced in 2010, the laptop -- once the faithfully portable companion -- was suddenly seen as clunky and less mobile than it once was. But rather than head for the recycling bin, laptops are taking on a new role.

For many, the laptop has become the go-to mobile computer for people who need to get work done. Tablets are great for media consumption and web browsing, but many people haven't adjusted to the devices as productivity tools. This is where laptops seem to be destined -- as more capable computing devices that can be carried from room to room or from office to office.

Tablets are still a new technology, and their full effect on the computer market has not yet been felt. As people become more familiar with them, the devices could eventually be used for more productivity purposes, further pushing laptops in new directions. How tablets will influence the roles of other technology will be evident in years to come.