The annual Consumer Electronics Show typically showcases prototypes and technology that are months, if not years, from hitting the market. So it's an early barometer for winds of technological change.
And when it comes to social media, one big wind at the 2012 CES last week was integration with technology of all kinds, suggesting it will be another newsy year for social networking and related services. In particular, social TV and connected cars were two areas where social media made plenty of news in Las Vegas.
In addition to TV growing more participatory and social, and cars getting social networking plugged in, four other areas likely will be ripe for social media evolution this year:
- Mobile communication
- Social marketing strategies
- Labor, staffing, job issues
- Presidential politics
Read more about social media predictions for 2012.

