With mobile and wireless technologies growing and the public asking for more the eventual transition to ultra wide-band (UWB) seemed obvious. Recent setbacks may hinder UWB from becoming a standard anytime soon.

UWB is technology that allows for the wireless connection of a variety of devices. Everything from wireless monitors to wireless communication between digital cameras and printers, even transferring data from digital camcorders can be done. It is made possible due to the high data transfer rates capable with UWB.

UWB chip makers like Intel, Focus Semiconductor, and WiQuest have either shut their doors or stopped their programs in 2008. A total of 4 companies stopped manufacturing chips for some reason or another.

Intel dedicated part of its booth at CES to mobile Wi-Fi personal area networking (PAN). The idea is simple, Wi-Fi enabled components speak to each other using an ad hoc network without the need for a router.

The idea seems promising. Intel had a pair of Wi-Fi headphones that supposedly worked with the computer there. There were also a pair of Wi-Fi speakers under the display table that are not out yet. The PAN would work similarly to pairing your Bluetooth headset with your phone using a personal identification number. That would avoid people just randomly joining your PAN and hijacking your speakers or headphones.

What technologies are going to go mainstream in 2009? The following four technologies will shape your everyday life starting in 2009. Don’t expect everything to change by tomorrow, but you’ll see.

Wireless USB

While wireless USB hubs are currently available, they are priced too high for widespread adoption. I expect this to become much cheaper in 2009 with more devices sporting wireless USB built in. Keep reading for the complete list.