Unwrapping R2D2 for Christmas

It would be wrong to get to Christmas Eve without doing some sort of Christmas-of-the-future-based story. 

According to the authors of a future-gazing technology book called iDisrupted, the Christmas presents of tomorrow could look very different indeed, and the frantic posting and purchasing of last-minute Christmas gifts will be a thing of the past.

The report predicts customisation will allow clothes and shoes to be 'individualised', and with the rise of 3D printers, the giver will just need to email the app/code to the recipient, and they can print off their own present in their own home.  (Bit tight though, as they will have to pay for the actual 'ink' or whatever substance is needed to 'print' with - Ed).

And even watching the Christmas film of the moment will be a different experience, becoming a virtual reality experience in the comfort of your own home.

The future will also put an end to people owning too much stuff, according to the book.

Thanks to the 'sharing economy' and the power of social media, cars or power tools will be shared items, used when and where needed thus reducing their desirability as presents.

Electronic devices will become even more prevalent, as augmented reality devices invade every waking hour, with Google Glass, hearing devices and fitness bands becoming the norm.

Even traditional decorations will be confined to the skip apparently, with holographic decorations adorning the modern home, that will be able to automatically decorate itself into a Christmas theme including a 3D hologram tree with decorations, colours and smells. According to the homeowner's taste of course!

So what are some of the futuristic Christmas presents, according to the report?

It suggests robotic companions (along the lines of R2D2) that can emotionally connect with its owner and play a role as a friend and helper, will be on the top of many wish lists.

Another suggestion is a virtual-reality ticket that enables the owner to experience life as someone else - suggestions include Cristiano Ronaldo in the World Cup Final, or Jennifer Lawrence at a film premiere.

 

CRN says: Predictions of the future are always interesting because there are pros and cons for both sides.

With the rise of a more 'virtual' Christmas, it would mean a more environmentally friendly set-up, with live Christmas trees being left where they belong in the forests, and less wrapping paper used, saving even more trees. However on the flip side, the amount of power needed to make the presents work will increase, using more resources.

But in another way, it would be sad if this happened, part of the magic of Christmas is smelling a real Christmas tree, and rushing downstairs as a child to a pile of brightly wrapped presents, with not a robot in sight. Also as an adult, watching everyone's faces as they unwrap their physical presents is another pleasure, as is sharing a Christmas meal with real people round a real table.

What sort of Christmas would you prefer to see?

For now, we will enjoy the traditions for as long as they continue, and would like to thank you all for your support this year, and wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas and prosperous New Year.

 

 

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