Android and The Future

One of Blackberry's strengths for its Playbook is that the device is designed to accommodate the Android system. Google's Android has become the most widely used operating system for smart phones. One aspect of Android is that its plans extend well beyond the applications that have traditionally been used in North America. In Europe and Asia, the use of smart phones for such apps as payments is old hat. In North America, these apps are in their infancy.

That is soon to change. Numerous organizations are gearing themselves for payment systems using smart phones, and the Android system will be front and center in these apps.

But Android is going beyond that into the control of a number of devices, such as home appliances, stereos, wireless speakers, cars, alarm systems, etc. The possibilities are endless. Smart phones will become the ultimate remote, connecting the virtual world with the non-virtual world, as one writer puts it.

The implications for eBusiness are huge. Easy methods of payment are just one area that will streamline transactions. The access to outside devices will have the potential to streamline building security, and a variety of home services. Whole new lines of products will ensue.