The hiccups for Windows 8, however, have spotlighted the sometimes-awkward fit when software is grafted onto both a tablet computer used for watching movies and surfing the Web, and on a 27-inch desktop computer primarily for workplace functions.

WSJ: Microsoft Concedes Windows 8 Misses Expectations

Fact is, if you want to use your computer for much of anything beyond word processing, number crunching or surfing the web, having an Apple computer is an enormous liability.

FORBES: Apple offers sizzle

Smart phones will have color screens that, when held close to the eye, create the illusion of an 18- to 24-inch computer screen suitable for Web surfing and viewing high-resolution pictures.

CNN: Watch for microdisplays this year