Final answer:
The trend of smartphones and tablets outselling laptops and desktops is known as 'Mobile dominance', reflecting a significant shift in personal computing and market dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The trend described by the statement that smartphones and tablets currently outsell laptop and desktop computers is known as Mobile dominance. This describes a shift in personal computing where the primary devices used by individuals for digital interaction are mobile rather than fixed-location devices such as traditional desktop or laptop computers.
Personal computing has transformed significantly over the years. What was once a shared family desktop computer has now become a spectrum of personal devices, reflecting an evolutionary model of technological change. This transition follows the pattern suggested by Anderson and Tushman, where a technological breakthrough leads to variations and eventually a dominant prototype emerges, illustrated by the development from floppy disks to flash drives.
The rapid pace at which technology evolves often exceeds our collective ability to adapt at a societal level. This creates challenges in how we use technology responsibly and equitably. Moreover, technological trends also impact the market dynamics, as seen with the shift to lower-priced computers in response to changes in demand or supply.