Originally posted by the_dalex
The amount of data that flows from a system to a monitor is incredible. We need that data rate to run a display with the resolution and refresh that we are used to, and wireless technology isn't even CLOSE. I won't even go into the problems with the concept of transmitting video data in packets over 802.11g, just give that up right now.
The consumer doesn't really want a detachable display. The consumer doesn't really want a tablet computer. The consumer doesn't really want their computer to record television. They may think that these are neat ideas, but they aren't all rushing out to buy these things. These are niche products that the average consumer isn't really asking for, or when they actually take them home, they are disappointed by the lack of other features that they are accustomed to. Great, my computer can record TV? What do I do while it's busy encoding and writing the stream, and any interruption will cause it to drop frames? Go watch live TV? I should have bought a Tivo, then I could do whatever I wanted whenever I wanted...
There will be a day when we can fit an entire computer system on a few chips for reduced space/heat output/power usage, with a solid-state data storage system all in a slim package that is about the size and weight of today's regular LCDs. At that point, it won't be an issue. Until then, R&D money spent on tablet PCs and wireless displays based on current technology is going to be wasted. I, and most consumers, will not give up our fully-featured laptops for reduced-quality tablets that cost more and do less. There is virtually no consumer market for these items, because the technology isn't going to deliver what people expect, or at a reasonable price. Tablets are designed for the kind of data-entry you see in warehouses, with more checkboxes and drop-down menus. Handwriting is about the worst possible human interface option, maybe second only to speech. I don't see it as a benefit in any way, shape, or form in my life.
My solution to screen-sharing so far has been much cheaper... I turn or hand my laptop to someone else to show them something. It weighs less than 5 pounds so it can be one-handed, and can burn DVDs to boot. It cost less than any tablet PC out there, and the screen is bigger than most of them. The 12" Powerbook packs more into its tiny form factor than any tablet PC out there, and I defy you to tell me that it is more cumbersome to use.
