Are Desktop Computers Fated to Die? – What the Future Holds for Programmers
With the advancement in computing hardware making devices ever smaller while maintaining or even improving processing power, the term “desktop computer” is seeing a shift. It is apt given that the term itself was born from the size of computers that could fit on a typical office desk, compared to the significantly larger space they once occupied. Today, the distinction between a desktop and a portable device is blurring as we explore the evolution of computing.
From Desktop to Smart Devices
Today, computing devices range from IoT devices and wearable tech to mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. These devices, whether fixed or portable, are just variations of the same concept: computers. But with the trend towards miniaturization, can desktop computers remain relevant? The answer is a nuanced one.
Relevance of Desktop Computers
Despite the rise of mobile and smart devices, desktop computers are far from becoming obsolete. This is especially true in the business environment where the capabilities of a desktop laptop cannot be matched by mobile devices. For example, when dealing with vast data sets, spreadsheets with numerous columns, or complex graphics and videos, the sheer processing power and large screen size of a desktop cannot be substituted.
Businesses prioritize productivity and efficiency. Many critical business processes, such as data analysis, project management, and design work, are better suited to traditional desktops. It is not just about a physical setup; it is about the tasks that require specific hardware capabilities. For large enterprises, even smaller companies, it makes more sense to invest in desktops for key functions that cannot be easily transitioned to mobile platforms.
Programming: An Ever-Evolving Field
The question then arises, what will programmers do in this changing landscape? While the core function of programming – writing sets of instructions for programmable devices – remains constant, there is a shift toward higher-level and functional programming as more data and applications grow in complexity. Programmers will still be essential, but their focus may evolve.
General programming will shift from low-level assembly or operating system programming to a more application-centric approach. They will interpret and manage big data more efficiently, perhaps using machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance their work. However, the need for skilled programmers is not diminishing; it is transforming.
Why Desktops Still Matter
It's important to note that in countries like the United States, the shift to smartphones has been happening more gradually. The cost and utility of smartphones mean that many people have adopted them for personal use, but it doesn't necessarily impact business computing. The number of people serviced by telecommunications companies (like having a telephone line) is not directly related to the number of desktop computers in use. It's apples and oranges.
Furthermore, the cool functionalities that mobile devices today enjoy, such as voice-to-text, are often processed on powerful server farms that use desktop-class technology. These servers are integral to the cloud computing infrastructure that supports modern applications and services, including those on smartphones.
Conclusion
While the future of desktop computing may evolve, it is not destined to disappear anytime soon. For the foreseeable future, desktop computers, especially in the business world, will continue to be a preferred choice for tasks that require significant processing power and workspace. As for programmers, their role is not diminishing; it is changing to meet the demands of an increasingly data-driven world. The journey of computing continues, and whoever adapts will thrive.