Laptop computers have leapt into the global sales arena with the force and flexibility of Bruce Lee, effortlessly dispatching their lumbering desktop opponents with nothing more than a ruthless, one-inch Sonoma punch.

With wireless technology blossoming around us, the popularity of laptops is only set to increase. The ability to play games, work, or casually surf the Web in coffee shops and airports ensures that notebook computers remain incredibly popular.

Laptops, though, aren’t just utilized for leisure. Mobile technology is also beginning to dictate what happens in the classroom. This is especially true as notebooks are entering the educational arena in ever-increasing numbers. Indeed, schools such as Framingham State College (Boston) and the Myron B. Thompson Academy have both elected to use laptops as teaching tools in class.

Thanks to the adaptability and portability of notebook computers, retailers enjoyed a bumper sales year in 2004. Consequently, everyone’s using laptops these days, from sprightly sixth graders to zimmer-wielding septegenarians.

But can this popularity and the incredible global sales figures be maintained?

Yes they can. Once you couldn’t find a laptop for under $1,000, but now there are entry level notebooks selling for $700 and even lower with coupons and rebates. Recently, Wal-Mart began to offer Linux laptops with 30GB hard drives for under 500 dollars.

So just how low can laptops go?

Can you say $100?

If Nicholas Negroponte, founder of MIT’s Media Lab has his way, wireless laptops for third world countries will soon be available for around 100 dollars.

2005 - The Year of the Rooster?

Think again. This is the Year of the Laptop. [Lucy Layman of Laptopical]