These trends free PC designers to experiment with smaller, less rectangular shapes. Intel's Concept PC is prime example. Click for more. Click for more. Flat-panel LCD screens enable manufacturers to experiment with funky forms.
Style is an effective way to build a brand.
Knowing this, even the godfather of beige, IBM, has introduced a sleek, black computer called IntelliStation. Click for more. It's moving into the living room. Where users watch DVD movies together, play games and participate in online communities. And if computers are ending up in the living room, they'd better look OK next to nice furniture and be presentable when company comes over.