Technology’s rapid pace makes it impossible to predict what the end of the next decade will look like. Less than a year ago, no one thought generative AI innovations, ChatGPT or Midjourney, would be as disruptive this fast.
This shows that IT professionals can only thrive by staying ahead of the curve. They need to know what, when, where, and how things are happening in the tech world – reading this blog is a pleasant first step.
Our list of the top emerging technologies for 2023 is in no way exhaustive; we might have missed out on a few and intentionally ignored others, but all in all, we’ve covered the very best happenings influencing the future of the tech industry in 2023. Stay tuned!
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
With ChatGPT and the likes, it’s evident that Artificial intelligence (AI) is already a household name and needs no introduction.
But what about AI’s relationship with machine learning? We’re guessing you know very little about how this symbiotic relationship will affect the future; well, let’s explain.
Here’s AI simplified:
- Machine vision: AI technology that allows computers to see and interpret images like the human eye. For example, automatic ID scanners.
- Conversational AI: advancements like ChatGPT showcasing how well computers understand speech and written text.
- Robotics: AI tech that helps robots understand simple commands. For example, Walmart’s automated assistance.
Now, you must be wondering how the above descriptions have anything to do with AI and machine learning; here’s the screamer;
Machine learning underpins most AI developments and teaches computers to learn from the vast amounts of data continually generated—a candid example of generative AI in action.
2. Voice Assistance
Not too long ago, talking was regarded as a thing you do with family, friends, colleagues, and sometimes, enemies. But now, voice-based commands are the new norm; you can literally talk to your phone, car, speakers, or any other voice-enabled device.
Voice assistant software allows for the creation of routines that can be kicked off by a simple voice command like, “Good morning” or “Good night. It can also conduct more sophisticated tasks like reading the news, setting light levels around the house, adjusting temperature, etc.
Indeed, the voice revolution has only just begun. Today, Alexa, Siri, and Cortana are the top emerging technologies in the space, but we can’t fully grasp what the future holds. Not to forget that innovation for voice assistance software is still in its infancy, ongoing, and is open to all, even to you.
3. Edge Computing and 5G
Here are another two highly advanced technologies complementing each other – based on necessity – to usher in a new generation of smart devices and apps.
5G is a next-generation wireless technology with high bandwidth, probably the fastest ever. On the other hand, edge computing is a network infrastructure that can handle large data volumes.
Every day, humans generate more than 3.5 quintillion bytes of data. Have the thought of where all these data go ever occurred to you? Like humans, data also need a house (database) or a shelter to take refuge.
5G and edge computing is a next-gen duo functioning together to cater to the large volumes of data generated, tackle the difficulty of transporting data, and ensure the inefficiencies of remote computing don’t get in the way.
4. Quantum Computing
Maybe you haven’t noticed, but hey, some problems are actually too complex for classical computers.
Medical personnel can’t use their everyday computer to simulate complex drug designs or tailor treatments to a patient’s DNA; you can’t even accurately predict the weather with a classical computer—you need quantum computing for such tasks.
Quantum computing harnesses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems. They can perform multiple calculations simultaneously and are very good at ‘optimization problems.’
Volkswagen’s collaboration with Google to use quantum computing to help buses and taxis find the fastest route is one common use case in business.
5. Blockchain
For the umpteenth time, blockchain is not bitcoin – bitcoin is just one of its many applications.
Blockchain is a technology promoting safe and accurate record-keeping across a network of computers. Multiple people can interact with the record depending on whether or not the network is open to the public.
The difference between blockchain and a typical day-to-day record-keeping banks engage in is that there is no third party; transactions run on smart contracts and do not involve human intervention.
Blockchain is making waves across all industries as a fast and secure way to do business, and developers are in high demand – it’s probably one of the few top emerging technologies on our list set to disrupt how people do business for decades to come.
6. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Clearly, the need to automate repetitive tasks isn’t as deliberate as most tech companies make it out to be, especially since it’s one of the biggest innovations causing mass layoffs.
However, there is no denying that the future is automated. We can’t thrive as a species if all we do is sit at a computer and complete defined tasks.
Robotic process automation involves building, deploying, and managing software robots that aid our day-to-day activities. RPA can be as simple as using automation software to reply to business emails sent on weekends or as complex as having one of Walmart’s robots sell you groceries.
Though, if you haven’t had one of Walmart’s robots sell you groceries, you’re not alone – RPA in retail is among the top emerging technologies in its infancy and is offering a truckload of recruitment opportunities to IT professionals.
