When information appliances are connected to the highway, there will be less need for many physical things – reference books, stereo receivers, compact discs, fax machines, file drawers, and storage boxes for records and receipts. A lot of space-consuming clutter will collapse into digital information that can be recalled at will. Even old photographs will be able to be stored digitally and called up on a screen instead of having to sit in a frame.
Predictor: Gates, Bill
Prediction, in context:In his 1995 book “The Road Ahead,” Microsoft CEO Bill Gates writes:”The changes in technology will start to influence architecture. As the ways in which home are used to change, the buildings will evolve. Computer-controlled displays of various sizes will be built into the design of the home. Wires to connect components will be installed during construction, and thought will be given to the placement of screens in relation to windows to minimize reflection and glare. When information appliances are connected to the highway, there will be less need for many physical things – reference books, stereo receivers, compact discs, fax machines, file drawers, and storage boxes for records and receipts. A lot of space-consuming clutter will collapse into digital information that can be recalled at will. Even old photographs will be able to be stored digitally and called up on a screen instead of having to sit in a frame.”
Biography:Bill Gates, the most influential technology entrepreneur of the late 20th century, was the primary author of the prediction-packed 1995 book “The Road Ahead” and is the founder and CEO of Microsoft Corporation. (Entrepreneur/Business Leader.)
Date of prediction: January 1, 1995
Topic of prediction: Getting, Sharing Information
Subtopic: General
Name of publication: The Road Ahead (book)
Title, headline, chapter name: Chapter 10: Plugged In At Home
Quote Type: Direct quote
Page number or URL of document at time of study:
Page 214
This data was logged into the Elon/Pew Predictions Database by: Guarino, Jennifer Anne