Nobody expects that just because they've made computers better they're going to give them to you free.

Dean Kamen’s quote reflects on the economic realities and the business behind technological advancements. He highlights that while computers and other technologies may become increasingly sophisticated and better, it is unlikely that they will be given away for free. The point Kamen is making is that, despite the impressive improvements in technology, the costs associated with development, manufacturing, and distribution mean that companies will still expect to monetize their products.

The origin of this statement lies in Kamen’s own work as an inventor and entrepreneur, best known for creating the Segway and other technologies. As someone who has been involved in the development of cutting-edge technology, Kamen is aware of the substantial investments required to improve and produce new innovations. His comment serves as a reminder that technological advancements often come with a price tag, both in terms of financial investment and the time spent to bring these products to market.

Kamen’s quote also addresses the value of innovation. While technology may improve over time, the individuals and companies responsible for these innovations must find ways to compensate for their work. It emphasizes that the process of developing new technologies is resource-intensive and requires both financial backing and sustainable business models to thrive. In this sense, even the most revolutionary advances are driven by the need to profit.

Ultimately, Kamen’s statement underscores the idea that while technology can advance rapidly, those responsible for these improvements still need to generate income in order to sustain their work. The expectation that improvements in computers or any other product should come free fails to recognize the costs and effort involved in creating and distributing these innovations.