Final answer:
Alexander Graham Bell predicted that telephone wires would become a common household utility like water and gas, facilitating conversation without leaving home. His invention of the telephone in 1876 and subsequent improvements by Thomas Edison transformed communications and had far-reaching societal impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Who Predicted the Future of Telecommunications?
The inventor who predicted that "The day is coming when telephone wires will be laid on to houses just like water and gas - and friends will converse with each other without leaving home," was Alexander Graham Bell. Bell, who was a Scottish born inventor, patented the telephone in 1876. His invention laid the groundwork for a revolution in communication, allowing people to instantly connect over vast distances. The telephone rapidly gained popularity and it wasn't long before it became a household utility alongside water and gas, just as Bell had envisioned.
The transformation in communication wasn't solely due to Bell's efforts. Thomas Edison also played a critical role by improving upon the telephone design, which ultimately led to the modern telephone we recognize today. Edison's design was more practical for everyday use and his iteration of the telephone helped to solidify the device's presence in both personal and professional domains.
Advancements in communications technology continued to surge after the telephone's introduction, including the widespread use of the telegraph, typewriters, and later radio transmissions. These inventions collectively reshaped the landscape of human interaction and business operations. They allowed for a significant reduction in the time it took for information to travel, bringing about a new era of global connectivity that had profound societal impacts.