Today we find ourselves at the cusp of a technological revolution where the pace of innovation is accelerating at breakneck speed and newer technologies are emerging at an unprecedented rate.
From artificial intelligence to 5G to autonomous vehicles, these emerging technologies are set to change the way we live and work.
In this article, we have curated a list of what we believe are the top 10 technologies and trends with great potential that are expected to be important in 2024 and beyond.
So, let’s dig in.
1. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the talk of the town for the entire year. Generative AI and language model-based chatbots are everywhere. From your internet browsers – Bing Chat and Google’s Bard– to your computer’s operating system – Copilot in Windows 11.
The technology has become incredibly useful as they are impressive in generating text responses to our queries. AI models are now well capable of helping us draft emails, translate text, create content like art or marketing copy, and even code programs.
AI enhances created work. For instance, text-to-image models allow users to generate graphics from scratch or enhance the quality of an existing piece.
2. Augmented Reality
Extended reality technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have been around for a while, but 2023 was the year things really took off.
By overlaying digital information onto the physical realm, AR has changed the way we interact with our surroundings. What was earlier reserved for specialized niche usages like gaming, is fast becoming a common sight.
Extended reality has various applications. But one that is commonly found in AR filters on social media platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, or TikTok. AR and VR content are something that content creators and marketers should keep an eye on in 2024 as demand for mixed reality content is on the rise.
3. Cloud Gaming
Like how we now stream movies on Netflix or Apple TV instead of storing them on our hard drives. Gaming has also moved to the cloud. Cloud gaming is a novel solution that allows gamers to play their favorite games without having to store them on their computer or console’s hard drive.
Cloud-based games are now widely available across different gaming platforms and devices, such as Sony’s PlayStation or Microsoft’s Xbox, where players can simply play the games on launch day without having to wait for them to be downloaded. All you need is a computer and a fast and stable internet connection to get access to cloud gaming.
4. 5G
Just a few years ago, 5G was considered an innovative technology. Fast forward to today and it has become the network connectivity standard for the latest devices. 5G allows for speedier connection with much faster load times and minimal latency in order to complete day-to-day activities like streaming, video conferencing, or playing online games without any lag.
Most new smartphones now come with 5G compatibility and more and more internet service providers are offering access to the network at a reasonable price point.
5. WiFi 7
WiFi 7 is the latest iteration of wireless internet connection technology. As an upgrade from the WiFi 6, the seventh generation not only offers speeds of up to 320 MHz. Compared to the 160 MHZ of its predecessor at a higher bandwidth. It also allows for uninterrupted connection of multiple devices.
Even if you own older devices that are not compatible with WiFi 7, you can still benefit from its speed and efficiency in internet connectivity. Whether it be for your remote work, streaming movies in 4K, or playing games with your friends online.
6. Cyber Security and Privacy
Internet browsing is set to become far more of a private affair, thanks to enhanced cybersecurity. Earlier websites used to deploy cookies that send information about your online behavior to advertisers and software providers, which are now gradually being phased out.
Device manufacturers are giving users the option to choose. If they want their online data to be tracked instead of doing it without their knowledge. This shift in approach will translate to better online privacy and security while reducing the risk of identity thefts, scams, or data leaks.
7. Green Tech
Sustainability is a rising trend that is heavily influencing the tech industry. More and more technology providers are now focused on adopting eco-friendly production practices. To limit the negative impacts on the environment and achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. They are also building products that are more sustainable to the environment.
The use of post-consumer recycled plastic, post-industrial recycled metal, or even recycled ocean-bound plastic is becoming common practice among tech manufacturers.
8. Blockchain
In 2024, we will see blockchain, the technology that underpins cryptocurrencies, become even more prevalent. Distributed ledger technology (DLT), as it’s called, will provide a secure, decentralized, and transparent way to store and transfer data. This can be leveraged by a wide range of industries, from finance and healthcare to supply chain management.
9. Edge Computing
Edge computing is a novel technology that seeks to bring data processing closer to the source of the data. By processing data at the edge of the network, rather than sending it to a centralized location. Edge computing can significantly reduce latency and improve efficiency when processing large amounts of data.
It will work wonders in the healthcare industry where doctors can make faster and more accurate diagnoses for a patient’s health condition.
10. IoT and Automation
This year has seen the Internet of Things (IoT) and automation emerging as transformative forces in the corporate sector, and this is set to follow through into next year. IoT allows for devices and sensors connected on the same network to seamlessly exchange data.
