People at home and work will access streams of information through large wall monitors. Virtual assistants handle routine chores. By 2007, sophisticated software will create computerized helpers to file, screen calls, and write letters. Genetically designed species of plants and animals enter the mainstream by 2008. Biotechnology will improve crop production to feed a more-populated world.
Computers take over health care tasks.
By 2009, more-powerful hardware and software systems will keep medical records, fulfill prescriptions, and monitor patients. Alternative energy challenges carbon-based fuels. Smart robots take on sophisticated jobs. Decision-making robots that do complex factory work and assist the handicapped will arrive by 2010. The GW Forecast of emerging technologies began in 1990.