Compare and Contrast - Two very different predictions from Microsoft & IBM

Here are two very different videos that outline Microsoft and IBM's vision for the future of digital technology. Watching Microsoft's is both exciting and inspiring. In contrast watching IBM's had me asking "Is this a joke?"
The bigger implication is the impact this kind of vision will have on staff during these challenging times. Microsoft's video inspires a "Yeah, I'd like to make that happen!" response in those who watch it. On the other hand, I can only imagine how staff at IBM must feel after watching this view of the future. To me, it's eminently practical, but not very inspiring. It's conservative, and a repetition of what we already know is possible.
Anyhow, take a look, but I warn you, watching IBM's will leave you thinking - "How will I get back those minutes, I've just wasted?" You've been warned.

The Next Revolution in Desktop Printing - Objects

I've been following the development of 3D printers for a while now. Why? Well, because I imagine a day when the Rory's Story Cubes community will be able to design, upload and share their own icons, and them print their own sets of Rory's Story Cubes using a 3D Printer. Desktop Factory have recently launched a 3D printer selling for about $5000 - a similar price to the first Apple LaserWriter. The LaserWriter is often touted as kick-starting the desktop publishing revolution. Say goodbye to limited choice, and high prices, say hello to the next wave user-generated creativity!

[via PSFK, Treehugger and Ponoko]