CEA Addresses Economy, Technology

Technology is helping Americans stay informed and escape from the outside world.
That’s part of the lesson of a conference in Palm Springs, Calif. Approximately 200 consumer electronics industry representatives showed up for the Consumer Electronics Association Industry Forum and Fall Conference.
Sessions were devoted to the impact of new digital audio technologies on traditional business models, the impact of home networks on digital audio distribution and new digital storage technologies.
Workshops focused on providing attendees with tools and techniques to help deal with uncertain consumers.
CEA Vice President of Market Research, Todd Thibodeaux, announced the results of the CEA “State of the Economy” survey. Researchers examined consumer product usage patterns and spending attitudes in relation to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
The study found that while consumers’ attitudes have not changed drastically, “many Americans are turning to technology products to keep them informed of current events and to provide comfort in their home as an escape from the outside world.”