Tech Retailers Look to Web-Connected Devices

The high-tech world is pinning its holiday hopes on sales of the latest Web-connected devices, but “gadget burnout” among consumers could spoil the party.

With the computer market in a slowdown, the high-tech industry is hot to sell new gadgets. Consumer electronics have exploded in unprecedented directions--from Internet-ready mobile phones to hand-held computers, game consoles and digital cameras aimed at audiences of all ages and appetites.