Tech Trends Transforming 2018
Sometimes the walk down memory lane is a bit surreal, and especially so considering the speed of advancing technology. We have come so far with technology in such a short span of time. This century is full of innovations and technological achievements. Our lived experience is certainly made easier with devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. And with the changes in technology come transformations to the world around us. Here’s a look at the tech trends transforming 2018.
BYOD – Bring Your Own Device
If you look around, most people are either on their smartphones or using their tablets, even in a setting where they probably should not be doing so. Some companies have decided to take advantage of this trend and have introduced the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) model for the workplace. According to PrinterLogic, by 2017, half of all employees will be using their own devices in the workplace. BYOD strategy is quite advantageous for the following reasons:
- It’s cost-effective. Companies don’t have to worry about buying each employee’s equipment, thereby saving the company some money. This is especially advantageous for small startups.
- It increases employees’ satisfaction and happiness. People crave a certain level of freedom and autonomy in the workplace. This strategy shows that employers trust their employees by not placing restraints on their access to personal devices and accounts.
- It allows employees to work with a device they already know how to use. This can increase employee productivity and help reduce the natural learning curve that occurs after making a new hire.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI), it has been a part of our everyday lives for a while now, which could be anything from a simple Google search to the iPhone’s Face ID. In this year, artificial intelligence is going to help us handle some more complex data, which will help transform how critical services like education and healthcare are going to get implemented. According to Scoro, as AI continues to evolve, humanity will eventually live in symbiosis with AI, if not merge entirely.
Blockchain Technology
A blockchain refers to a list of records that is continuously growing called the block. Files are linked together using cryptography. We may see this technology struggle this year to break out of the cryptocurrency state; it is the technology best known for the cryptocurrency called the bitcoin. And according to Tom Altman, blockchain technology may be able to create a version of Wall Street where no one can cheat or otherwise game the system.
AR and VR Technology
Augmented Reality (AR) technology has seen huge advances in terms of use for mobile applications. A variety of industries are leveraging AR tech to make their apps more interactive for users. From IKEA’s furniture app that lets you stage furniture in your own home to SnapChat’s 3D World Lenses that generate interactive photo filters, AR tech is a game changer in the way that users interact with mobile devices and brands.
Like the rest of the world, even the most immersive, high-tech Virtual Reality (VR) systems are looking for ways to cut cords. As we move forward in 2018, expect to see more options in wireless VR technology. The primary complaint about using immersive VR systems for video or gaming experiences was that the cables detracted from the experience, the users weren’t quite able to lose themselves because they’d get reminded of their tethers to the ‘real’ world. Now, users can fully immerse themselves without bothersome cords, which means we’re moving ever closer to technology that feels more like reality than simulation.
We have to admit, with the changing technology, life has become a tad easier and more interesting. So let’s embrace them with arms wide. Out with the old and in with the new!