CeBIT 2011: Show kicks off with tablets and voice-controlled cars

Follow Computing for regular updates on announcements from the Hanover tech-fest

CeBIT 2011 kicks off today showcasing technologies ranging from the wacky to the actually quite useful.

The big hitters, including Google, IBM, Microsoft and SAP, will all be there jostling to bag the biggest headlines.

As was the case at the CES event in January, tablet devices are likely to hog the spotlight. Among the new launches will be a 7in Android-based tablet from French near field communication (NFC) specialist TazTag called the Tazpad.

Fujitsu, meanwhile, plans to launch what it calls the world's first truly wireless PC display, a 22in monitor that is powered using Smart Universal Power Antenna (SUPA) technology and can display data transmitted wirelessly across distances of up to 10 metres.

On the wacky front, car manufacturer Ford is showing off its Sync technology, which apparently allows you to drive a car using voice commands – great for all of those people who love to knit or make origami animals while hurtling down the motorway.

Computing will be at the show, so tune in for a daily update on CeBIT product and industry news.