Industrial design will suffer a similar fate as the record industry.

3D printers will allow you to download and print a new toothbrush, vase or chair at will.
Buy, print.
Simple.

You’ll only go to the store to buy objects that your printer can’t print.

Since products will be digital downloads whats to keep pirates at bay?
Nothing.
It’s inevitable.

Piracy will be rampant.

The money you used to spend in getting products will be spent getting newer and bigger printers.
Pool resources with friends in order to get the model that prints sofas and cars!

Let’s not forget 3D scanners…
You’ll be able to copy objects too!

It’ll be as easy as downloading a song or movie is today.

What will be the equivalent of touring and selling t-shirts?
Companies will have to invent a new way to sell their wares.

The middle man (companies that produce) will be cut, designers will sell straight to users.
For a while.

I’ll put my money on the print/scan companies.

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