Tech Gear to Watch in 2004

What's coming up in 2004? New versions of the gear you enjoyed in 2003, that's what! Picture-happy portable phones. MP3-playing PDAs. Digital cameras shaped like a package of Kraft Singles and almost as thin. Flat-screen PC TV monitors that are that thin (well, nearly). Music players that double as personal storage devices. Game-popping cell phones. PDAs masquerading as laptops. Wheel mice gussied up in black leather. Wireless everything. And even radio makes a comeback. Talk about a season to still be jolly!

The personal technology marketplace is thriving. And why not? The latest gadgets let you handle more tasks. They offer new and easier-to-use features, and boast bold designer styles and colors. The piece de resistance? Cutthroat pricing in many cases.

We've compiled a list of the hottest gear just out, and we give you a sneak peek at what's coming around the corner.