Twitter and tech publications have been buzzing about the Consumer Electronics Show , wrapping up today.
CES is the time for tech companies and mobile- service providers to showcase some of the cool things they'll be rolling out during 2011.
Here are some of the major trends that you might want to be aware of if you're considering buying a new smart phone or gadget this year:
Video calls on smart phones: I wrote last week about Skype on the iPhone. During Verizon's big announcement, reports indicate that Skype video-calling capabilities will come standard on the new android phones showcased.
More tablets: The iPad has a hold on the majority of the tablet market now, but a new android operating system for tablets, Honeycomb, could bring android tablets to a new level.
4G: As consumers use more data with applications such as Netflix video streaming, Pandora music streaming and Skype on their smartphones, networks must increase to handle the load.
Streaming music in new ways: Pandora, an Internet music service that allows you to create your own stations, has plans to integrate into car technology systems. Slacker Radio, a music subscription service, is going beyond mobile of smart phones to an iPad app.
What kind of gadgets do you think you'll buy this year? What's at the top of your list? Tell me on Twitter @SarahDayOwen.