Dominating in 2012 is the tablet computer and its operating systems, making up five of the top ten. Apple’s iPad 3 tops the list, living up to its launch-day hype.
For the first time in the Hot 100’s seven-year history, T3 has included operating systems and services, quite simply because content is king. Smartphones, tablet computers and the slickest-looking laptops are nothing without captivating apps and media. So it's only right that the most definitive yearly tech list doffs it cap to the stuff that makes today's hardware so appealing.
The Hot 100 also pulls comment from experts in areas that include music, film, gaming and TV. For instance, Anthony Rose, CTO of Zeebox and the inventor of iPlayer feels that the way we currently view TV will be redundant imminently. “By next year, expect your TV to either be an Apple TV or to be running Android. The latter will dominate the TV industry, with all other platforms swept aside.”
This extensive list is as varied in product as it is price range. From a refrigerator that can suggest meals from its contents at £2,000, to Netflix, the £6-a-month subscription TV service. This is, say the publishers, the ultimate list for anyone looking to upgrade their life with technology.
Luke Peters, editor of T3, says: "This year's Hot 100 list demonstrates just how quickly tablet tech is evolving, with the iPad and its tablet peers truly changing the face of the industry. From mobile operating systems invading desktop computers to the building demand for 4G connectivity to power them, it's what our readers are talking about most. Windows 8 looks like the best thing Microsoft has done in eons and could be a real challenger this year, yet the Hot 100 captures a moment in time – and the new iPad is undoubtedly leading where others follow."
The Top 10…
1. Apple iPad 3 (Tablet Computer)
2. Microsoft Windows 8 (Operating System)
3. HTC One X (Smart Phone)
4. LG 55EM960OV OLED TV (Television)
5. Asus PadFone (Tablet Computer & Phone)
6. Amazon Kindle Fire (Tablet Computer)
7. 4G (Data Roaming Network)
8. Lytro Light Field Camera (Camera)
9. Sony PlayStation Vita (Handheld Gaming Device)
10. HP Envy 14 Spectre (Laptop)
Apple has won the Hot 100 award twice previously, in 2010 with its original iPad and in 2008 with the iPod Touch. Other former winners include Sony's PlayStation 3, Motorola's Atrix and Palm's Pre.
