2020 is coming quickly, and with it, new trends in technology.
Here are the top five trends coming in 2020:
1. 5G Data Networks
5G technology and wireless data networks are mostly here. Though 5G is available, it is still expensive and limited to certain areas and major cities. That will change when there is expanded coverage and cheaper data plans.
With 5G networks, mobile internet connectivity will be better than ever, with fast downloading and uploading, high speed broadband and extremely reliable, high-speed connections.
2. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, continues to trend because it is always innovating, and affects how we live, work and play.
AI is designed to mimic human intelligence by doing things like image recognition, speech and pattern recognition and decision making. And all more accurately and faster than humans.
AI seems scary, but we use AI technology already when we use navigation apps, streaming services, home personal assistants, and smart home devices among other things.
Other things that AI does is schedule trains, assess business risk, predict maintenance and improve energy efficiency.
AI assists us and saves us money, but at the same time AI contributes to automation and improving work efficiency, leading to job losses for humans.
3. Machine Learning
Machine Learning is related to AI. Computers are programmed to learn things and do things that they were not originally programmed to do. They “learn” by using data to discover patterns and create insight.
Machine Learning can be used for data analytics, data mining and pattern recognition. This translates into powering web search results, real-time ads and network intrusion detection, to name just a few things it can do.
4. Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is like a digital ledger that records transactions, but secure because of encryption. It is not just for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
It works as data you can only add to, not take away from or change. Blockchain refers to making a chain of data – just adding. Because you can’t change previous chains, the data is secure.
Blockchains are consensus-driven, so data control can’t be taken by any one entity. That means a trusted third-party is not necessary to oversee or validate any transactions.
5. Edge Computing
Cloud computing is becoming more mainstream and the adoption of cloud computing continues to grow. It is no longer emerging technology, and what is happening is that cloud shortcomings are becoming apparent.
Edge computing is a consequence of cloud computing no longer being able to handle all the data that comes its way in some situations. Edge computing offers a solution by getting data to a datacenter for processing and bypassing cloud computing related latency.
It is called “edge” because it is not centralized but “on the edge”, closer to where computing needs to happen. It can be used as a kind of mini data center in remote locations that have limited or no connectivity to a centralized location, and is particularly important for time sensitive data.
These trends are on their way, but now you are prepared!