The development of the cloud has fuelled the emergence of new methods of personal computing, experts have stated.
According to Gartner, it is incorrect to say that the world has now moved into the post-PC era.
However, the organization believes the cloud has opened up different methods of handling and using electronic data.
Indeed, it noted that while the PC was once the "sole corporate access device", people can now use alternatives such as tablets and smartphones.
Gartner insisted that the traditional computer will still be widely used in future years, but stressed it will become part of a collection of machines rather than the "primary hub" for people.
"Emerging cloud services will become the glue that connects the web of devices that users choose to access during different aspects of their daily life," said Steve Kleynhans, the group's research vice-president.
He added that the fast pace of technological change in the last few years has led to many businesses wondering what will be the norm before the decade is out.
Posted by Paul Newton
