Echoing the oft-heard sentiment at CES that technology and innovation is what will propel the US out of its economic recession, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer predicted 12% growth in PC sales for 2010.  “There’s an incredible range of smart devices hitting the market now, and there is no smarter device than the PC,” Ballmer said at his Wednesday night keynote address.  Ballmer noted that Gartner Research initially predicted a 2% decline in sales for ‘09 but later revised that to 3% growth subsequent to the launch of Windows 7, ”a rising tide that’s lifting all boats.”

Ballmer’s presentation showcased the diversity of uses for the Windows OS, which he announced would be powering HP’s anticipated touch-enabled “slate PC” tablet.  (Microsoft is reportedly working on its own dual-screen slate, the Courier.)  He noted high customer satisfaction rates for the company’s little known Media Room technology, which powers video-on-demand services for phone companies including AT&T, and touted 3D technologies, donning glasses to demonstrate the capabilities of 3D gaming, using a computer by Asus.  It was revealed at the session that Microsoft’s Project Natal game units would ship in time for Christmas.  Natal allows a user’s body to control the action (without use of a controller, like that employed by the Wii).