TightWind is written by Kyle Baxter. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Jean-Louis Gassée argues that because the personal computer industry has matured, smart phones are the future.

He’s exactly right, with one niggle: “smart phones” aren’t the future. Mobile is.

“Smart phone” is a ridiculous term today. In 2005, when a Palm Treo or Blackberry were the most advanced mobile devices, it was perfectly accurate. They were still primarily phones, but with email as well. That just isn’t true today. Now, the phone part of a mobile device is just a small element. They are mobile communication devices, whether they use the web or a cell network for it.

“Smart phone” is also terribly restrictive. Pocketable mobile devices aren’t the only devices of the future. It’s now quite clear that tablets are, too. Mobile devices, in the general sense, are the growth market.

Apple should and will continue developing the Mac, but as far as growth and serious innovation are concerned, the PC is drawing to a close. For this reason, it is not only reasonable, but necessary for Apple to shift primary focus to mobile development. Their company depends on it.