Tablets necessitate PC evolution

The recent rise of smartphones and tablet computers has led more than one industry expert to proclaim the dawn of the post-PC era. This isn't to say traditional laptop and desktop computers are disappearing soon, but it is evident the technologies must evolve to stay relevant.

Desktops perhaps have less need for change. Developments in all-in-one technology and touchscreen monitors have taken the spotlight in recent years, but the desktop's position as an at-home or in-office machine seems less affected by the emergence of tablets. In many ways, the desktop is -- both literally and figuratively -- not going anywhere.

Laptops, on the other hand, are in a more delicate predicament. Tablets especially have invaded the space traditionally reserved for laptops, as users find them to be more mobile and convenient for on-the-go computing.

For laptops to stay relevant, they must offer something tablets do not. The most obvious is the keyboard, but with attachable keyboard accessories coming out for tablets, even this may not be the solution.

Research firm Gartner estimates that 364 million PCs will ship worldwide in 2011, so the market is not as close to the end as some might suggest. However, growth in the PC market is slowing, which is evidence that new changes must arrive sooner or later.