Judging by the latest advancements in the production of mobile and wireless hardware and the increased level of functionality, it is clear that manufacturers targeting the global mobile and wireless market are moving rapidly towards the launch of all-in-one devices.
This seems to be the overall objective behind the investment in research and development within this ultra competitive area of trade.
Consumer requirements today focus on solutions that allow for problem-free access to a number of multimedia applications, the ability to store, retrieve and manage data, connect and transmit large files at high-speed.
The main reason is because current and emerging notebook solutions are designed for multi-use - there is a concerted effort by manufacturers to marry functions that allow the user to benefit from a centralised workstation that also doubles up as an entertainment centre.
The average consumer is well aware of advances in IT and the widespread rollout of cost-effective, quality product to areas that have previously never really benefited from technology.
There is an understanding that greater access, more innovation and higher levels of adoption equate to lower pricing. It is no secret that people want the convenience of mobile technology at competitive rates.
A single point of application and access to all digital facilities is the mark of today`s digital lifestyle. There are signs that all areas of the mobile and wireless space are beginning to converge and offerings are being streamlined.
On the notebook side, for example, we see a concerted effort by global technology manufacturers to focus on compact devices designed specifically for portability and anywhere computing.
The bonus for consumers is that this is being accomplished without sacrificing fundamentals like reliable connectivity, speed and performance.
The strength of wireless connectivity through the incorporation of technologies like HSDPA and 3G adds to the generally higher level of functionality in product.
Whether the product is entry level or targeted at the high-end space for ultra-mobile professionals, the idea is to integrate functionality to provide the quality of `all-in-one` computing.
Another key aspect of the growing ICT and mobile space is the positive influence it has on the development and release of next-generation digital lifestyle equipment. We see evidence of this in the depth and quality of ranges of peripheral devices that can be easily integrated with mobile solutions.
The mobile office is now an established and understood concept and its appeal is widened through the introduction of sophisticated personal computing devices.
While it is encouraging to witness proactive trade and supply in this marketplace, issues like bandwidth, access to basic technology, urgency behind skills development and the like continue to influence the pace of innovation and transfer of genuine benefit.
We must not forget that among the core principles upon which mobility is founded, is the transfer of basic technical advantages to everyone. Benefits should not be exclusive to just one user group.
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Established in 1997, Sahara Computers assembles and markets PCs and peripherals through a global distribution network that covers both established and emerging markets.
The company is an official distributor and original equipment manufacturer for a variety of top international vendors, including AMD, Creative, Delta, Epson, Foxconn, Intel, Lexmark, Maxtor, Microsoft, Samsung, SMC Networks and Symantec.
The core focus of Sahara`s operation is the consistent and effective supply of product to rapidly expanding market sectors including corporate, government, digital lifestyle and mobile and wireless.
This operation is managed via the company`s head office in Midrand, Gauteng, considered a central business hub. The Sahara business network stretches across South Africa and includes Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth.
Sahara Computers has successfully extended its reach to key regions and emerging global markets including Dubai, China and India. The Sahara brand is also well known across Africa, with established company presence in countries like Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique and Namibia.
Sahara is also an accredited member of the Proudly South African campaign as well as the SAVANT global SA brand awareness initiative. Corporate social responsibility is a key priority and it continues to contribute towards projects and programs aimed at individual and community upliftment.
The name Sahara is widely associated with the development of sport, including soccer, cricket, and rugby, the support of ICT literacy and skills development initiatives, and access to much needed technology in rural areas.
Among the many sponsorship/technology supply agreements in place, Sahara also concluded a deal with Mamelodi Sundowns, a top ranking soccer club competing in South Africa`s Professional Soccer League.
The sponsorship is underpinned by the provision of communications infrastructure and mobile technology - including laptops, notebooks and digital lifestyle technology - and signals Sahara`s commitment to the club and South African soccer in general.
Effective marketing and generating awareness are significant elements of the company`s ongoing marketing campaign.
Under the direction of Atul Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director of Sahara, the company is on course to realise its vision of Sahara`s vision to become a truly global brand and premier IT supplier throughout Africa.
For more information on Sahara Computers, its products and services, visit www.sahara.co.za.
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