The fourth industrial revolution is different from the previous ones because of the convergence and interaction of multiple technology trends.
In this article I will list ten major technological trends that I think will forever change the way we live and do business.
10 tech trends that will transform our world
Trend 1: ubiquitous computing
Computers are everywhere today: on our wrists, in cars, and even in household appliances.
We’re used to seeing computers and other devices get smaller, lighter and cheaper. They are also more powerful and ubiquitous. As an example, today’s smartphones are more powerful than supercomputers from 10 years ago. Quantum computers will likely be the next major leap in computing power. They are fast and powerful computers that can perform previously impossible tasks.
Trend 2: Smart and connected everything
You’re probably familiar with Internet of Things devices such as smart watches, smart TVs and smart thermostats. The IoT is the growing number of connected, intelligent devices and objects capable of collecting and transmitting information.
In the future, everything that is connected will be. It’s not just about devices and products, although they are important for business. It also includes the places where we work and live. Smart, connected offices and factories, as well as entire smart cities will be able to monitor and react to what is happening in the space around them.
Trend 3: Datafication of the world
The IoT and ubiquitous computing are two of the biggest contributors to the volume of data generated every day. Alongside this machine-generated information, humans also generate a lot of data in their daily lives.
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Businesses can use these data to improve their products and services, streamline business processes, make better decisions, and even generate new revenue streams. Businesses must be aware of data risks, especially in terms of data security and privacy.
Trend 4: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the
AI has enabled the AI to make incredible strides in recent years. In 2020, smart speakers will answer 100 billion voice commands, 75 percent more than they did in 2019.
Trend 5: Extended Reality (XR),
In the future I think our experiences of the world will take place more and more in the blurred space between real life and digital world, and XR will only accelerate this change. It is therefore important that companies start to think about how they can accommodate this and create immersive experiences for both their employees and customers.
Trend 6: Digital Trust
Digital trust is the level of confidence that users have in their organizations to create a safe digital world where transactions and interaction can be carried out safely, securely and easily.
I am one of many who believe that blockchain technology and distributed ledgers will be a key factor in enhancing digital trust and improving interactions. The technology is still a long way from being accessible to all organizations. The answer for many businesses may be to partner with new entrepreneurs and innovators who are making significant progress in the blockchain area.
Trend 7: 3D Printing
Today, 3D printing materials can be anything: powders, liquids, chocolate, metals, plastics, and even powders of concrete or metal. Now, entire houses can be 3D-printed.
This could transform manufacturing. 3D printing allows manufacturers to create products that are difficult to produce with traditional methods. It also streamlines the manufacturing process and can be used to create highly customized products, even completely unique ones.
Trend 8: Synthetic biology and gene-editing
When “bad” genes, which could be harmful to an organism’s health or that of its descendants are found, gene editing can offer a number of advantages. These harmful traits can theoretically be changed by new gene-editing technologies. Gene editing can make a huge difference in the fight against diseases in humans, livestock, and crops.
Synthetic biology involves stitching long strands together and inserting into an organism. The organism could then behave differently or develop entirely new abilities.
What does this have to do with business? I think gene editing and synthetic biology will change the way we make products. Imagine exciting new products like cultured meat and you can see how these technologies may transform the way we produce products.
Trend 9: Materials science and nanotechnology
Materials science and nanotechnology, which are the disciplines that study and manipulate materials, have already made some amazing advances. These include tiny computer chips, smartphone screens, lithium-ion battery technology, and stain-resistant fabric.
This trend will likely lead to major breakthroughs for electric car batteries and solar energy. It could also bring about other advancements that make the world better.
Trend 10: New Energy Solutions
The future is often hailed as clean, inexhaustible and renewable energy. But there’s one problem: maintaining a nuclear fusion reaction requires more energy than the fusion itself produces. Now, with the advancements in magnet technology, a nuclear reactor could produce net power by 2035.