The interesting thing about this virtual assistant idea is that it won't just come to you as a discrete application or service. It will be baked into the products and services you're already using. Your iPhone will become one. Your will too. Even your car.

It all sounds pretty cool. But there are potential downsides. Virtual assistants will violate your privacy, make decisions for you and potentially make mistakes on your behalf. As we come to rely upon them, we'll miss important facts and events when the software errs.

Of course, such problems can only be attributable to human error. At least that's what your phone will tell you.

Mike Elgan writes about technology and tech culture. Contact and learn more about Mike at , or subscribe to his free e-mail newsletter, .