Technology trends for small spaces
By: Chris Fudge, Vice-President, Consumer Business, Personal Systems Group, HP Canada
As every condo dweller knows, space comes at a premium and it’s important to maximize every square foot available. One way to maximize square footage is by choosing multi-functional items – such as convertible coffee tables and Murphy beds, and it’s no different with your technology. Style and design are an added bonus that should also be considered. When it comes to technology there are four main trends to consider when shopping for your next personal computer:
1. Everything is going digital.
2. Connectivity is pervasive and home networking is a must for all households.
3. The right choice in technology makes it easy to game, view, work and share when and where you want.
4. Entertainment has gone high def – and these music videos, photos and games are often at the heart of your entertainment hub.
Finding ways to maximize these trends and integrate PCs into your home is essential to creating a space that best suits your lifestyle. Be it the kitchen, living room or home office, getting the most out of your PC investment results in stylish yet functional living areas where the entertainment hub is wherever you are.
PCs for each style and space It’s important to identify what it is you want your PC to do for you, whether it’s staying connected with friends and family, watching HD movies, playing video games, catching up on work or accessing photos. For instance, a desktop PC provides a one-stop shop for all of your computing needs while a notebook provides portability and wireless connectivity.
Touch-enabled desktops Perfect for a central location like a kitchen, touch-enabled desktops provide countless ways to make your family organizing efforts fun, fast and effective. With all-in-one options that come with a built-in keyboard and mouse, your day-to-day tasks can be completed on one centrally located PC.
With the added benefit of a touch screen, you can access information, entertainment and social networks by pinching, rotating or dragging your finger across the screen. Look up a recipe for tonight’s dinner, then update your Facebook status when it’s in the oven – all with the touch of your fingertips.
Notebooks The latest notebooks on the market today are designed to make it easy for you to do things while on the go. Whether it’s watching TV in your living room or listening to music in your bedroom, notebook PCs combine the benefits of mobility and entertainment. Look for extended battery life and other built-in options like webcam and HD capability to maximize your digital needs and desires. Great for both work and play, notebooks are becoming increasingly thinner and modern on the outside while faster and more powerful on the inside.
Mini notebooks Often called "netbooks" or "companion PCs," mini notebooks are great for the always-connected lifestyle. They’re small enough to fit in purses and backpacks, and are designed to keep you connected anywhere you are. With different colours and styles available, mini notebooks are not only a personal technology hub but can also add to your fashion statement. Share vacation photos with family, video-chat with far-away friends or update your blog while watching the sun set on your balcony…all while expressing your own style.
It’s all about defining a personal digital entertainment experience for you, your family and your home. By choosing the right combination of products, you will change the way you connect, access and enjoy your digital devices, content and services. Any small space can be beautiful and practical with the help of a few key multi-functional technology pieces. Once you have a plan in place about what you want your PC to do for you and which room you want to do it in, visit hpshopping.ca for the latest styles and features. Of course, after incorporating the perfect combination of PCs to suit your lifestyle, don’t forget to enjoy your space!