With the recent release of Ubuntu for Android, in addition to the upcoming debut of Windows 8, the market for personal computers continues to take significant steps towards a world where all your computing needs will be handled by one device that fits conveniently in your pocket.

Sales of tablets are already cutting into the global demand for PC’s. Only yesterday, Apple reported they sold 11.8 million iPads during their second-quarter, a 151% increase from the same quarter a year ago. Mac sales grew 7%, and the global market for all PC’s, just 1.9%. Yet, to my surprise, when asked about the market for a hybrid laptop / tablet, Apple CEO Tim Cook replied that “You can converge a toaster and a refrigerator, but those things are probably not going to be pleasing to the user.” He appeared to be taking a shot at Windows 8 powered tablets hitting the shelves this fall. I, however, side with the response from Microsoft’s Frank Shaw, head of PR, when he tweeted back, “must be a typo. it’s not a toaster/fridge. It’s a toaster/oven. Those seem pretty popular. Just saying.”

I’m also not entirely convinced a toaster/fridge wouldn’t be a great idea as well. Continue reading →