The future of computing: a 50-year prediction

Three "technologies" are driving the growing use of computers. First, the underlying component technology simultaneously is becoming less expensive and more capable. Computation rate and reliability are increasing, while requirements for space and power are decreasing. Second, the communications infrastructure is undergoing a similar increase in capability and decrease in cost. Last, breakthroughs in computer science and mathematics, coupled with increases in raw computing speed, are providing solutions to problems previously thought to be intractable.