It’s hard to believe that it’s been nearly ten years since the Internet began to take hold of everyone. In 1995, only 14 of users actually used the Internet for whatever reason; now, can you imagine a day in which you aren’t using the Internet or technology as a whole in your daily life? From smartphones to GPS to electronic entrances to your apartment, there have been many advances in technology in the last ten years.
1. iPhone – it’s safe to say that the introduction of the original iPhone in 2007 started a new wave of how we use cellular and mobile devices. Smartphones had actually been in use thanks to the Blackberrys that many business professionals were using in order to keep in contact with work and co-workers; with the release of the iPhone, more casual consumers began to see how smartphones could work in their lives, which has led to an increase in the mobile market today.
2. Wi-Fi – speaking of mobility, the increasing nature of Wi-Fi (or wireless fidelity) is something else that made an impact. Initially released in the late 90′s, it’s only with the rise in mobile technology, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, that Wi-Fi has really come of age. In light of this, there’s also the consideration of wireless technology as a whole, as more and more people continue to access data and information using 3G and 4G technologies.
3. Social Networking – for the younger generations, they will probably never remember a time before there was a Facebook or a Twitter. Social networks really began with the introduction of the now defunct MySpace, but took off with the emergence of Facebook, allowing users to connect with friends, family, and strangers from around the world.
4. Online Streaming – while it may upset the cable companies, one of the big booms was the introduction of online video streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix. Reducing the huge monthly bill of cable by allowing users to watch not only favorite TV shows but new releases doesn’t seem to be a trend about to diminish.
