Running counter to the traditional software business model based on IP, research firm Gartner also sees open source software (OSS) competing directly with commercial software in many segments of the enterprise market and taking on an expanded role in the small-to-medium business sector. With OSS adoption rising rapidly, Gartner believes that by 2010 it will account for 20 percent of the global software market, displacing over $100 billion in revenues from traditional software vendors.

Gaming is always up there in any top 10 tech list, whether it be new trends such as mobile gaming, or the next-generation consoles being developed by Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo.

According to recent reports from global research company CEA, the launch of next-generation consoles from these firms last 2005 and early 2006 will increase their revenues by approximately 18 percent.

On-demand game services offered via cable, satellite, and broadband TV is likely to be the next big thing and there is also an opportunity for the next-generation consoles to become the hub for a digital home.

Incorporating online game play with HD (high-definition) movie playback and connectivity to PCs, digital cameras and other devices, the games console could take center stage in the living room, the study suggests.