[Philip Lelyveld comment: this is an excellent list of 10 current, not "future," attributes of the emerging 3D printer landscape.]
3D printing becomes industrial strength
3D printing starts saving lives
Customization becomes the norm
Product innovation is faster
New companies develop innovative business models built on 3D printing
3D print shops open at the mall
Heated debates on who owns the rights emerge
New products with magical properties will tantalize us
New machines grace the factory floor
“Look what I made!”
See the full story here: http://www.forbes.com/sites/ciocentral/2012/12/07/manufacturing-the-future-10-trends-to-come-in-3d-printing/