13 September 2004
Exhibitors to highlight why the convergence of computing, communications and home entertainment devices is set to change the way we work, rest and play

Vendors from Acer, HP and BenQ to Samsung and Sony, and their local distributors, will be exhibiting a wide range of new convergence devices and home networking solutions at Gitex Computer Shopper this year.

"Home Automation will be really a lot more than a buzzword. Exhibitors will showcase how audio, video, computers and telephony are becoming one and making each other smarter and better too. Automated homes, as demonstrated by the exhibitors, will highlight how the power of the PC is being harnessed in new ways that offer convergence between entertainment and computing,"

says a spokesperson from organisers DWTC.

For instance, with the right tools at their disposal, consumers can connect their favourite electronic devices with their home computer, and can share applications across previously disparate platforms.

The most obvious challenge facing the uptake of digital home technologies in the Middle East is the cost of inter-operable appliances, as consumers who have spent heavily on legacy systems such as home theatres may balk as the cost of connectivity-enabled replacements. The proliferation of broadband Internet connectivity and wireless networking standards such as 802.11 in the consumer market will also be required for demand to really take off.

Having said that, IT and communications spending in the GCC alone is set to top $4 billion this year, growing to almost $8 billion by 2005. The global home networking market is expected to be worth $6 billion this year, and by next year analysts are projecting that over 100 million homes worldwide will be using networked digital appliances.

Exhibitors believe that a large proportion of these homes will be in the Middle East and Africa. The potential is indeed huge, as developers like Emaar Properties, the Dubai-based developer, have already adopted interpretations of digital home. At its sample Hattan villa, wall-mounted keypads provide centralized temperature and security controls, while a subsidiary firm called Sahm Technologies supplies LAN Internet, TV and telephony connections to every room.

At last year's Gitex Computer Shopper, Acer Computers launched its Aspire RC900 entertainment-based desktop PC. Part of Acer's 'Enjoyment Centre' product line, the RC900 features a remote control as well as a wireless keyboard and mouse. Thanks to a 7-in-1 media reader capable of reading the most commonly-found memory cards, the RC900 can also play movies, broadcast TV and music, and store digital photographs.

This year, Samsung Electronics, will take it a step further by also showcase the recently launched, 34A10, a hard disk drive (HDD) flat screen TV. . Along with features such as Dolby Prologic 2 sound and a woofer speaker system for power bass, the 34A10 bridges the divide between computing and entertainment in that it boasts a 40GB hard drive capable of storing up to 16 hours of digital video.

Home automation will also be the focus of INTEL at GITEX, the B2B exhibition, having recently announced plans to invest USD 200 million in companies developing innovative hardware and software technologies for the digital home. Samsung, the regional and global leader in digital technology will also break new grounds by showcasing a broad range of innovative technologies in home convergence.

-Ends-

About GITEX 2004 and GITEX Computer Shopper 2004
GITEX 2004 already the most significant IT event in the region and beyond, this year promises to be bigger, brighter and more comprehensive than ever before. GITEX profiles include IT Equipment, Hardware Systems, Telecommunication, Wireless & Networks, Software & Applications, Banking Technology & Financial Services and Research & Development Technology.

GITEX Computer Shopper, the largest and most popular IT consumer event in the Middle East, runs from October 2 to 8 at the Dubai Airport Expo. It will showcase the best and latest IT consumer technology, hardware and software from leading local and regional IT vendors, alongside some of the best deals on hardware, software, peripherals, multimedia and a wide range of products and services.

For more information, visit www.gitex.com and http://shopper.gitex.com or contact: 
Ashok Thomas
Dubai World Trade Centre
Tel: +971 4 308 6083
Fax: +971 4 331 4853
E-mail: Ashok.Thomas@dwtc.com

Elizabeth Sen
Bates PanGulf PR
Tel: +971 4  295 3456 ext:309
Fax: +971 4 295 1027
E-mail:  liz@batespangulf.com

© Press Release 2004