The start of a new year evokes a certain measure of prognostication, and we often turn to research analysts who step back and take stock of the coming trends. Forrester Research has done just that in its "2011 Mobile Trends" report, released Jan. 24. The report covers a wide range of mobile technologies that will emerge in 2011, from 4G networks such as LTE to near field communications and augmented reality applications. These technologies start with operating system platform providers such as Google and Apple, and extend to the purveyors of cellular airwaves and infrastructure data pipes such as Verizon Wireless and AT&T. These companies are all looking for the right combination of mobile, social and local technologies with which to lure consumers and businesses to revenue drivers ranging from smartphones and tablets to mobile advertising and mobile data plans. These perks "will drive lots of innovation and growing consumer adoption but not real revenues—yet," Forrester analysts claim. This eWEEK slide show offers some illustrative images to augment the Forrester findings in this slideshow.
