In the future, more people may work on a computer like this -- instead of today's bulkier PCs
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LAS VEGAS (CNN) -- The personal computer has revolutionized the way we live, work and play. But attendees at the recent Comdex Computer Trade Show said the PC is a mere stepping stone to even greater technological changes.

"The PC as we know it probably is going away," said Cheryl Currid, president of Currid & Co.

While the PC's body may disappear, it's brain will be compacted into ever-smaller and more diverse devices. No longer will our computers be confined to our desks or briefcases. They will come with us everywhere, all of the time.

One example is an already-developed product, "Web Pad," which looks more like a child's etch-a-sketch toy than a computer. Although it's wireless, it lets the user send e-mail and surf the Internet, and it's designed strictly for fun -- not business.

Analysts said while the computer industry has always been in sync with the needs of the corporate world, far too often it has not explored the needs of the average consumer.

The "Web Pad" is a wireless computer

"For the past 20 years, all we've done is bring digital technology to business," said Tim Bajarin, president of Creative Strategies. "What our industry is starting to do now is take technology and move it to other devices and, as a result, bring it to the masses."

As the industry moves into the tricky area of fickle consumer tastes, the experts are turning to the ultimate authorities of what they can and cannot do -- their mothers.

"My mom is actually my inspiration," said Steve Matson of Cyrix Corporation. "If my mom can't use it, we won't build it."

Correspondent Marsha Walton contributed to this report.