Current tablet systems are PCs that run full-size PC operating systems, usually Microsoft Windows. The combination of mobile processors and the extra layer of code required for the pen system resulted in a relatively slow experience. It also helps make tablets more expensive.

Next year's tablets will run cell phone operating systems like iPhone OS, Android and others. That will make them cheaper, faster and far more usable on a mobile device.

Because tomorrow's tablets will be big cell phones, rather than small PCs, they'll be cheaper to manufacture. They'll have lower-powered chips, less RAM, smaller screens, fewer ports and cheaper (or free) operating systems.