Technology has a short amount of time to grab our attention before it gets pushed to the side in favor of their newer, younger and more desirable models the next.

2012 saw the introduction of smarter smartphones, slimmer tablets and better wireless networks. So what trends can you expect to emerge in the next 12 months?

Hybrid laptops. The number of people who own a smartphone, laptop and tablet no doubt increased over the past 12 months. However, there might be a time in the near future where a laptop and tablet are one in the same. Dell released the XPS 12, which they market as part laptop, part tablet. The swivel monitor can sit upright like a traditional laptop, or fold on itself to only reveal the touchscreen, a la tablet. In 2013, look for hybrids like these to get the typical makeover: thinner and faster.

“Next-generation” series. Just think of all the Samsung and Apple products released this year, the least of which included the Samsung Galaxy SIII, the iPad mini and the iPhone5.  You no doubt noticed the blitzkrieg of advertising to make sure you were aware that the phone you have now, is no longer the smartest version out there. Mobile technology is where a huge chunk of the focus is, which is why user interface technology is sure to improve to make for even faster searches and usability. Tablets are also sure to get a lot of attention, no doubt getting thinner, smaller and faster.

Robotic cars/Electric cars. Think how great your morning commute would be if you could sit in the backseat, catch up on the news and drink your coffee without worrying about having to tap your brakes. Robotic cars could be just around the corner. The Mountain View search company helped push through a state law in California that would adopt regulations for driverless cars in the next two years. Not to mention Google’s fleet of robotic cars have cruised more than 300,000 miles so far. Electric cars are becoming more and more important as more and more people become aware of the positive effect they have on the environment. Plug-in cars are expected to be a big trend in 2013, as well as electric bikes.

2013 is bound to be a year of plentiful tech advances, marketing campaigns and smartphone battles. Smart TVs and personal gaming consoles are also due to keep advancing, as well as medical and educational technology.  Fitness technology is also one to keep an eye on.

This piece was written by Stef Thomas, an Internet blogger who is constantly researching and analyzing tech trends and new products. To check out products go to  http://www.dslvsdialup.com.