Technology. It has had its effect on many things. In most cases, technology has reduced the physical size of an item while increasing the speed at which the said item functions. It is always fun to reminisce when you see photos of older gadgets or show them to our kids and say "Hey, this is what my first phone looked like!". Kind of like a modern day "When I was a kid I had to carry my books 10 miles to school" tales we heard from our parents or grandparents.
With all the talk of the rumored upcoming new iPhone in the fall. It is fun to speculate how the new ones will be different. Will the screen be bigger, will it be thinner, what fun new things will the operating system offer. On that note, today let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Let's take a look at a few modern day gadgets and compare them to their predecessors.
1. Computers. History tells us the first computer came around in the 19th Century and emerged in modern form in the 1940s. Since their debut, computers have changed drastically. Take a look at this Apple computer from 1990. Not only are the new additions more sleek and modern looking, they are faster and capable of more than ever dreamed possible. Today's computers allow us to shop and communicate in ways we never imagined.
2. Cellphones. Some mobile phone service was available back in the 1940s! Can you believe that?? When I think back and remember the first cell phone I recall seeing, it was one from the 1990's, and Dave actually had one. Cell phones today as we know are mostly all "smartphones' and they are no longer just for emergency use or celebrities. Apps and mobile shopping have taken over cellphone usage all while creating brand new industries and job sectors. Let's take a look below at a 1990's phone.
3. TVs. Television sets have come a long way. Dating back prior to the stories of "When I was a kid I had to get up to change the channel". These days we don't even need a specific remote, you can use an app that allows you to change the channel from your smartphone or even program a recording from outside of your home. TV's of the 1990's were enormous, heavy eyesores. Nowadays they are big, but only big screened, sleek and contain computers. Today's TVs are "smart TVs" allowing you to surf the internet and get an email. Check out this old set from 1990's.
4. Video Games. Ah, video games, kids and some grown ups alike love them. They are just like smartphones, when the latest system comes out there is typically a rush to buy them. Back in the 90's systems had lots of wires. In order to play your controller had to be plugged into the system and the game cartridges were huge. Also, in the 90's in order to play with a friend you had to have them physically come over to your house. Now you can play via the internet and communicate with Bluetooth headsets and wireless controllers. Game systems allow you to watch movies via Netflix or Hulu or allow you to utilize your HBO subscription and more. Check out this 1990's Nintendo system.
Programming, technology, and innovation have modernized most industries. We are capable of doing more things via what was once considered just an appliance than we ever dreamed possible. Connecting household items to the internet like appliances and home security systems already exist and the possibilities are endless. Modern programming is not just for the office or some top secret level of the government anymore. Today programmers can not only assist companies with connecting systems they are developing software and devices like the Nest Thermostat and Apple announcement of "HomeKit". The possibilities of what programming can do for us in the future is endless. It increases the job market growth for programmers and should encourage more individuals to study computer science in college. What item has evolved the most in your eyes? Do you laugh when you remember the clunky size and limited capabilities of items that now contain the power of a computer in the palm of your hands? Technology, the possibilities are endless.
