We are standing at the beginning of a remarkable trend in the world of technology. This trend has many facets with one central idea in mind, being the next extreme advancement. Whether it is a 105″ plasma television or a fully functional video screen thinner and smaller than a dime, there is an active movement towards that next extreme.

Technology was hitting a very bland moment during the last several years where achievements seemed to be leveling out when it comes to the world of consumer electronics. Computers were becoming faster than modern programs really require, giving little reason for companies like Intel and AMD to really push for that next big leap forward. Cellphones were finally becoming somewhat functional while remaining in the realm of professional consumer electronics as opposed to the wide and diverse consumer electronics market. Things were appearing to be at their peak, until several amazing things took shape.

Intel discovered a way to make a processor that not only stays cooler than the industry standard, but runs faster than anything competitors had on the drawing board. The Core 2 technology has been touted as the mark of the eventual defeat of AMD. Computers benifited from this new technology and again gave geeks and nerds around the globe something to drool over.

Apple took over the world of tech journalism with their announcement of the iPhone. This little hand held device brought the idea of touch and true web integration to the world of consumer electronics and mobile phones. It has since become the second highest selling mobile device on the market short of the staple line of Blackberry products. The iPhone has been imitated in numerous new products from several leading mobile phone companies. This imitation is a sign that through this single advancement, the entire market has shifted to a new way of thinking in relation to form, function, and purpose of mobile phones for everyday consumers.

The list could continue on, while the realm of technology continues to stir and buzz over this renewed sense of creation and innovation that has brought so many people out of the analog age into the digital age of extreme that we are so boldly striding into, one advancement at a time. This is a good time to be in technology, and an even better time to be a modern consumer. Who knows what the next year will bring as technology’s leading powerhouses race to discover that next big leap forward.