When technology bridges the gap between our present and future in a pace as high of the current world it is hard to keep up with technological trends. So, that you wouldn't miss out on these trends, here is a list of 7 amazing technologies that you could only miss if you were living under a rock.
1. Artificial intelligence (AI)
1. Artificial intelligence (AI)
Image source- TNW
AI, a branch of computer science aims to create intelligent machines. It can also be said that they are the machines which try to mimic "cognitive" functions that humans associate with the human mind, such as "learning" and "problem-solving".
According to Forbes, 80% of enterprises are now investing in or are planning to expand AI investment. The diverse set of applications AI supports include expert systems, speech recognition and machine vision. Popular AI cloud offerings include Amazon AI services, IBM Watson Assistant, Microsoft Cognitive Services and Google AI services.
2. 5G
2. 5G
Image source -system one
Fifth-generation wireless (5G) is the latest iteration of cellular technology, offering faster speeds and more reliable connections on smartphones and other devices than ever before. Apart from 5G also offers network management features which allow mobile operators to create multiple virtual networks within a single physical 5G network. It is estimated that through 5G, data transmission could be as fast as 20 Gbps.
5G networks are already starting to appear and are expected to launch across the world by 2020, working alongside existing 3G and 4G technology to provide speedier connections that stay online no matter where you are.
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
3. Augmented Reality (AR)
AR can be described as an enhanced version of reality where live direct or indirect views of physical real-world environments are augmented with superimposed computer-generated images over a user’s view of the real world.
Image source -phys.org
In other words, it just uses your existing reality and simply overlays virtual information on top of it. Pokémon Go, Google SkyMap, Wikitude, IKEA Place app are some of its examples but AR is more than just smartphone fun. Its usage can be seen in the field of medicine and warfare as well. For instance, The U.S. Army uses AR tools to create digitally enhanced training missions for soldiers.
4. Robot Dexterity
4. Robot Dexterity
Image source – Medium.com
Computers and robots are very dumb. (Hard to believe, right!) If their work environment changes even slightly outside their pre-programmed procedure, then the whole production line could come to a grinding halt.
But recent advances in machine learning, Big Data, robot perception, AI and efficiency in networking have enabled us to develop robots which could perform fine motor tasks and function in uncontrolled environments. A project called Dactyl, that has taught itself to flip a toy using it's "fingers". This technology is going to have a great impact on both business and everyday life as we will be creating duplicate human beings!
5. Internet of Things (IoT)
5. Internet of Things (IoT)
In simple terms, IoT is the concept of basically connecting any device with an “on” and “off” switch to the internet. It includes everything from cell phones to coffee makers that can be assigned an IP address. It doesn’t require much human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction.
Image source-justcreative.com
It consists of web-enabled smart devices that use embedded processors, sensors and communication hardware to collect, send and act on data. The development of IoT has made accessing information easier, improved communication between devices and the quality of business services by automation.
6. Blockchains
6. Blockchains
In simple terms, blockchain actually refers to digital information (the “block”) stored in a public database (the “chain”). Its property of allowing digital information to be distributed but not copied provided the internet with a new type of backbone.
Image source -101 blockchains.com
Decentralization, transparency and immutability are its 3 pillars. It was originally devised for the digital currency and Bitcoin but the tech industry has now found other potential uses of this technology. The sharing economy, crowdfunding, file storage, prediction markets, etc. are some of its benefits.
7. Metalenses
7. Metalenses
Image source – nbcnews.com
These are flat surfaces made up of nanostructures to focus light and do not require multiple elements to correct abbreviations, unlike traditional lenses. This gives them an upper hand over the conventional bulky lenses.
Using metalenses would allow devices such as the cameras in a smartphone to be made much more easily and cheaply. (If smartphone cameras evolve, can you imagine how the market will explode,)It can also allow entirely new designs of optical components such as optical chips. It has other applications including beam shaping.
Technology is now at the centre of all the industries. Adapting to these increasingly dynamic changes at the right time will ensure that you are at the centre of the centre or using the most suited technology to your industry will help you to exercise control even from the periphery.
- Written by Mehul Choudhary
- Edited by Maitreyi Mehndiratta
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