The language of technology: from ZX to SMS

clock

I came over all nostalgic last month when the Sinclair ZX Spectrum celebrated its 25th anniversary.

At the time, an entire generation of males puzzled over computer magazines, painstakingly typing in vast swathes of code with the ultimate reward of loading something like space invaders, accompanied by those bizarre ZX Spectrum loading noises. The ZX Spectrum with its iconic rubber keys signalled the dawn of the home computer. It’s amazing to think that the children of the Spectrum Generation have no concept of a world before computers and the Internet. Even those who remember watching the Queen’s coronation on a small black and white television are now surfing and blogging with the ...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Technology

From chaos to calm: How AI saved my Christmas sanity

From chaos to calm: How AI saved my Christmas sanity

'My brain thinks in spreadsheets, not sparkles'

Jane Hepburne Scott
clock 15 December 2025 • 5 min read
Dynamic Planner CEO on AI's role in 'trusted advice'

Dynamic Planner CEO on AI's role in 'trusted advice'

‘The challenge is that delivering advice is hard’

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 December 2025 • 6 min read
FCA reveals first group of financial firms to take part in AI testing

FCA reveals first group of financial firms to take part in AI testing

To deploy ‘safe and responsible’ AI

Cristian Angeloni
clock 03 December 2025 • 1 min read