Top tech predictions for 2010

PCs: Intel’s Core i3 processors will become the desktop processor of choice for most PCs. Thanks to their twin cores that support HyperThreading, they are effectively quad-core chips. Many PC monitors will also make the switch to LED backlights which, as with HD TVs (below) will reduce power consumption and should increase contrast.

Cloud computing: Online apps also look like they’re going to become popular in 2010. Google Docs is a great example, as the benefits for consumers are immense: no need to invest in Microsoft Office, you can access your documents and calendar from any internet-connected device, plus collaborate in real-time with others on the same documents.

Security: Online criminals will target ‘cloud’ services and devices like television sets and PVRs. To most people cloud computing refers to applications that run in the web browser. Criminals will look at how they can abuse such services to steal money and other valuable resources from their victims. As internet-connected domestic electronics (such as the Cello iViewer TV and the latest PVRs) become more common, people will start to use them to bank online. Then the criminals will target these devices with viruses and other threats.