TECHNOLOGY SPECTATOR: Tech trends for 2012

As we get ready to usher in the new year, here's a look at the ten tech trends that should generate plenty of headlines in 2012.

Technology Spectator

We couldn't end 2011 without taking a look at the top tech trends that should garner plenty of attention next year. The ubiquity of concepts like mobility, smartphones and tablets belies the rapidity in which the technology has made the jump from the drawing board to our homes and a lot of the themes from this year are likely to be developed further in 2012. With that in mind, here's a list of the top 10 tech trends to keep an eye on next year, compiled by New York-based markets communications firm JWT.

4G for all

Fourth-generation wireless communications will reach most parts of the globe by the end of 2012. Telstra is already active in the space with the launch of mobile broadband modems for its new 4G network. Optus and Vodafone Hutchison Australia are expected to launch their networks next year. Meanwhile, China Mobile has started trials in China; several major telecom providers will launch 4G in India in the first half of 2012 and Sky Brazil will roll out a 4G-based mobile broadband service. Device makers are also ramping up their product lines, with RIM launching its first 4G BlackBerry in August and Apple expected to dive into 4G with the iPhone 5 sometime next year.