Technology divide

Several notable technology milestones came to my attention this month. . . all of which are likely to disturb existing markets to some (lesser or greater) extent.

The first was the talk of Google wireless and the news about Google's Android and Open Handset Alliance... and the next was Verizon's response to open up their closed network to new applications and devices. This is a fundamental disruption and should make way for a wave of innovation for consumers. No sign of a similar quake from the FCC or the cable operators.

Second, it looks like the next iteration of the web is on the way with Hummer Winblad's investment in BSG and the acquisition of New Paradigms and Don Tapscott - will be interesting to see how this pans out. BSG has bold plans to take the new web (WIKIs, IM etc) into corporate enterprises. The question still remains whether there is any economic value although it all sounds very cool. . . but I think they need a younger person to represent this new wave. Tapscott is too much of a sage.

Lastly, is the advent of the "small world" of nano-technology, typified by the spate of startups in this space. Nano is a space that's been excellently written up by Batelle Memorial Institute in their recently completed report.