People are buying consumer electronics products like there’s no tomorrow. So why is it so hard for consumer electronics companies to stay profitable? And what can they do about it? IBM’s George Bailey and Hagen Wenzek know the industry inside out: They’ve consulted with (or supplied) everyone who’s anyone. In Irresistible!, they diagnose the disease and identify some very promising cures.

Bailey and Wenzek touch on crucial issues ranging from business models and cost drivers to the roles of services, pervasive connectivity, and user interface design. They also illuminate tomorrow’s market sweet spots (notably telehealthcare and online gaming).

With so much value arising from software, the authors' practical coverage of CE software development and embedded Linux is especially welcome. So are their enlightening essays on building relationships with end users and selling into China (where current hits include electronic prayer machines and handheld betting terminals)