Emerging technologies
AI
AI claimed the top spot on the list. Artificial intelligence refers to programmed algorithms that automatically parse and apply knowledge. It's the largest force in emerging technology, and includes security and sales applications for businesses.
5G
5G offers improvements over 4G, such as low latency, intelligent power consumption and high device density. 5G will make augmented reality, smart cities and connected vehicles possible.
IoT
The Internet of Things combines information from connected devices and allows for analytics of systems. These platforms, devices and datasets provide additional insights and efficiencies for the enterprise.
Serverless Computing
Serverless computing, or Function as a Service (FaaS), allows companies to build applications that scale in real time so that they can respond to demand that can change instantly depending on orders of magnitude. FaaS offers a consumption-based platform so that developers can quickly and cost effectively deploy applications.
Biometrics
Security will be improved by biometics by allowing people and devices to authenticate and move seamlessly through the world.
Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality
AR and VR transform how people engage with machines, data and each other. The enterprise is using mixed reality, AI and sensor technologies to enhance execution flexibility, operational efficiency and individual productivity.
Blockchain
There's an ever-increasing need to be able to secure and manage transactions across the internet, and blockchain is the answer. Blockchain manages data and supply chain challenges.
Robotics
Robotics are shifting from industrial use to service delivery and are impacting home and businesses, both physically and virtually.
Natural Language Processing
NLP is a field of AI that enables computers to analyze and understand human language. Speech-to-text converts human language into a programming language. Text-to-speech converts a computer operation to an audible response.
Quantum Computing
Our ability to process and analyze big data will be impacted by quantum computing. It is the key to leveraging machine learning and the power of AI.
3D Printing
3D printing or additive manufacturing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file.
The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced cross-section of the object.
3D printing is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing which is cutting out / hollowing out a piece of metal or plastic with for instance a milling machine.
3D printing enables you to produce complex shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods.
Drones
Drone technology is something that is continually evolving, with investments in it increasing year by year. This is because drones have a wide range of uses that are crucial for several industries. For example, unmanned aerial vehicles are commonly used in the military for gathering intelligence, for anti-aircraft target practice and more.
Emerging technologies are those technical innovations that represent progressive innovations within a field for competitive advantage.[1]
Emerging technologies typically go through the following sequential stages:
- Hypothetical
- Research and development / experimental / trial projects
- Working demonstrators
- Commercialization / diffusion