There are two problems I see with these devices. (1) They are small. Of course some might say that's a good thing, but when typing, a small keyboard is not good - ergonomically speaking. And (2) there is no "tactile" feel to using a touch screen as there would be with a real keyboard.

While the latter is something we will likely just have to get used to, size will always be a problem.

I guess another problem is these small devices are contributing to the obliteration of the English language, and the written word.

I agree totally on the keyboard issue for now. Something will have to be done to improve that, perhaps voice recognition will eventually be feasible. Another option might be the projection of a keyboard onto the surface in front of the device. So for when your on the move you use the on screen keyboard and when you dock at your desk you project a full size keyboard to the surface.

The problem with voice recognition is you have to talk to use it. So there goes any privacy with anyone within earshot. And in an office or classroom environment, everyone yelling at their monitors could cause confusion.

Very true, perhaps on a home level it may expand more but I agree in a busy office environment it wouldn't work.