As technology users welcome 2012 everywhere, it’s clear the year that had just passed was filled with no little controversy and memorable incidents.

From Steve Jobs’ death to the delay of the much-awaited iPhone 5, from the rise of Android devices to Nokia’s return with its Windows Phone devices, and finally, with the potent mix of mobile devices and social media that  helped ignite protests in the Arab Spring and Occupy Wall Street, but also encouraged the thuggery of the London riots, 2011 was a big year in technology.

The next 12 months look to be just as interesting, as existing technologies mature and grow, while other new trends emerge. Here are five things to look out for in 2012: …

As tributes pour in for one of the information world’s acknowledged geniuses, we thought it would only be right that we too remembered Steve Jobs for the way he changed computing for so many people.

His death this morning (Singapore time), when he was just 56, marked more than 20 years of endeavour to bring computing to the masses in a fun, accessible and imaginative way.

Not all his decisions and products went well with users, and not everything he touched turned to gold, but there is no doubt the former Apple CEO and founder of a company that created the iMac, iPhone and iPad had a profound influence in the way everyone used their digital gadgets today.

Here are four ways Steve has changed our computing lifestyles. …

… reality sinks in for the Apple iPhone.

At first, the story was about how frenzied crowds queued up for the hyped up wonder gadget. Now, weeks after, people are complaining about how they can’t log in with their MobileMe service. Even Steve Jobs is unhappy with it.

Then there are reports from Engadget and elsewhere that users are finding cracks/stress fractures with 3G iPhones. DailyTech reports that this can happen a day after or about 2 weeks after, according to user reports, and that the problems are usually spotted on the edges and the headphone jack.

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