At a time when broadband networks are becoming a standard feature in industry and personal lives, the foundations required for a ubiquitous society are fast becoming a reality. The theme of the fifth CEATEC JAPAN exhibition, “Ubiquitous Society - Digitally Enriched, Accelerating to the Next Stage,” was a timely reflection of just how far we have come.

In summing up the one outstanding feature of this year's exhibition, one would have to say it was the sheer diversity products and solutions that embody the arrival of this ubiquitous society. The technological concepts that appeared at the first CEATEC JAPAN in 2000 have now materialized in the form of numerous products and solutions. Continuing on from last year, manufacturers are choosing CEATEC JAPAN as a launch pad for introducing their new technologies and products to the rest of the world. This growing recognition of the exhibition's strategic importance has served to boost CEATEC JAPAN's value. To cite just two examples of this trend, Sharp unveiled its Aquos 65V-inch liquid crystal device (LCD) television, the largest of its kind in the world, on the first day of this year's event. Sony also introduced its new VAIO Type X, a combined personal computer (PC) and digital video tape recorder (VTR), on the same day.

In the area of electronic components and devices, as well, manufacturers led the world with the release of cutting-edge network-related technologies and products, including 0402 chips. Many television and print media highlighted these products for their viewers and readers, both in Japan and overseas.

Another strong trend was the increase in visitor numbers, which can be attributed directly to the appeal of new products and technologies. Unfortunately, the weather did not favor this year's exhibition, as a direct hit by a typhoon on the last day caused the event to close early. Nonetheless, visitor numbers remained strong. On October 8, the fourth day of the exhibition, the venue thronged with more than 50,000 visitors. Both the Digital Network Stage and the Electronic Components, Devices & Industrial Equipment Stage exuded more vitality compared to last year. There was a frenzy of activity around the Electronic Components, Devices & Industrial Equipment Stage, in particular. Indeed, some booths in the Stage did not have enough personnel to talk to visitors and answer their questions. This strong interest in electronic components, devices, materials and related technologies was due to the continuing increase in demand for digital home appliances, which is fueling growth in this exciting new area.