Technology is a crucial part of the world—from work to play, every area of life has seen advances in tech in recent years. With no signs of slowing down, innovation continues to take us to new heights. Therefore, it is important to keep up with the latest trends and understand the lingo around these ideas. Here are some of the most prevalent tech trends shaping our world in 2024.
1. Generative AI
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) programs like ChatGPT and Bard took off in 2023. Business leaders have already begun implementing AI into their companies’ work processes to foster innovation and improve productivity.
For example, generative AI can create and design marketing content for social media and email campaigns. Once fully implemented in wearables such as smartwatches and smart glasses, generative AI is expected to continue to shape our world.
2. Blockchain
Blockchain isn’t just for cryptocurrency. As blockchain expands as a technology, several industries—think healthcare, media, banking, and finance—are looking at implementing it in their security measures. Blockchain technology is consensus-driven, so it is non-hierarchical, which means that no single person or entity can take control of data on a blockchain.
3. Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network composed of physical objects embedded with technology that exchanges data with various systems and devices across the internet, including vehicles. A range of IoT technologies are expected to emerge in 2024, as by the end of 2024, there will be more than 207 billion connected devices that make up the IoT.
IoT will influence various industries as well. For example, IoT devices can monitor patients remotely and help doctors collect data and diagnose patients.
4. 5G
5G technology is a technology that follows IoT closely and enables advanced features beyond simply browsing the internet and streaming music and videos on your devices.
5G enables advanced technologies such as virtual reality and cloud-based gaming services, like Google Stadia. 5G has influenced telecom companies, which are already using the technology, and it may eventually be used in factories to facilitate traffic management and improve safety.
5. Edge Computing
Where cloud computing was once an emerging technology, edge computing has taken its place. Edge-computing devices analyze data where it’s captured rather than sending it to a central server such as a cloud server.
One example of an edge-computing device is an autonomous vehicle. These devices interpret data from their cameras, which spot hazards, rather than sending the information to the cloud, where it would have to wait for information to be sent to it.
6. 3D Printing
3D printing lets users quickly create complex designs. Thousands of companies have already implemented 3D printing into their workflows, creating tools, end-use products, and prototypes. This technology has transformed several industries.
For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology built the basic structure of a building within 14 hours. The International Space Station has already printed the first tool (a ratchet wrench) in space, and in 2017 and 2018, engineers started developing prosthetic limbs using 3D printers.
7. Biometric Technology
Biometric technology has proven itself to be a safe, efficient security measure. This trending technology influences countless apps, helping people log in to their apps and devices quickly, safely, and with greater ease than traditional password protocols. In fact, many companies plan to swap traditional passwords for face, eye, hand, and voice recognition by 2025.
8. AI and Machine Learning
AI and machine learning influence nearly every sector, from healthcare to real estate to finance. AI and machine learning are both expected to become more sophisticated and pervasive in society, transforming even more fields, from transportation to banking.
9. Autonomous Devices
Autonomous devices are growing into more reliable technologies. These devices include self-driving cars, robots, and drones (such as those that deliver packages). This tech trend is expected to grow in 2024.
10. Extended Reality
Extended reality (XR) includes virtual, mixed, and augmented reality. XR is expected to revolutionize education, real estate, and retail, among other industries, by enhancing human-led learning and buying with more immersive experiences.
11. Datafication
Datafication means transforming different aspects of business into quantifiable data you can analyze and monitor. Data has become a form of currency. Thus, this tech trend has been increasing in not only business but also personal contexts.
12. Mobile Internet
People clearly love having their internet on the go. Devices and apps will continue to evolve as mobile computing remains a popular internet option. For example, 5G technology is expected to influence road safety in the future, as previously mentioned.
13. Sustainable Technology
Technology plays a pivotal role in finding solutions for the ongoing climate crisis. Trends in sustainable technology include smart grids and innovations that help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the tech industry. Sustainable tech may become a popular choice with consumers, considering the growing awareness and demand for eco-friendly products.
14. Genomics
Genomics examines an organism’s genetic material and makeup, or genome. This tech trend has been crucial in helping us understand the role of DNA and genetics in disease prevention, agriculture, and bioengineering. DNA-sequencing technologies are expected to extend human life expectancy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.