The final speaker at IDC's e-Asia/Pacific conference did not address the topic of e-business. Instead, he looked to the day when our houses would know when we were home, when kitchens would tell us how to prepare wholesome food and our toys would help us communicate.
Michael Hawley directs the Things That Think research group at the MIT Media Lab in Massachusetts. His group explores the ways that digital technology will infiltrate everyday objects such as clothing and furniture.
'The nuts and bolts are going to start dissolving into the things that are around us,' he said.
Despite the odd topic, the professor was a highlight of the conference. He acted more like a stand-up comedian than an academic, making hundreds laugh during his 45-minute speech.
In about 10 years, he expects homes will have a nerve centre allowing them to shut down when their owners are away to save energy.