Back in the 1960s, a TV set, a refrigerator and a washing machine symbolized affluence for Japanese households. They were dubbed the "three sacred treasures" -- an analogy to the sword, mirror and sacred bead treasured by the Imperial Household.

So what are the three sacred treasures the electronics industry has to offer in the information technology era?

Toshiba Corp., a leading electronic appliance and computer manufacturer, hopes they'll be digital TV sets, mobile terminals and personal computers, according to Tadashi Okamura, Toshiba's new president and chief executive officer.