Today, I want to share an article that highlights the top 15 technology trends that were expected to shape 2018. These trends included blockchain, narrow artificial intelligence, underground transportation systems, 5G wireless networks, Bitcoin, augmented reality, driverless cars, new solar technologies, home virtual assistants, quantum computing, surgical robots, flying taxis, laser internet, the Internet of Things, and AR headsets. While predicting future tech trends can be challenging, analyzing data from 2017 helped identify potential directions for the industry in 2018. This year was anticipated to be full of innovation and transformation.
One of the most notable trends was the increased use of blockchain technology. Originally popularized by Bitcoin, blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that allows secure and transparent record-keeping. Beyond cryptocurrency, it has found applications in various sectors, such as healthcare, where medical records can be stored securely across different platforms. This ensures better accessibility for doctors while maintaining patient privacy and reducing administrative barriers.
Narrow artificial intelligence (AI) also gained more attention in 2018. Unlike general AI, which aims to mimic human intelligence, narrow AI focuses on performing specific tasks with high accuracy. From language translation tools to social media algorithms, these systems are becoming more integrated into daily life. Companies are investing heavily in narrow AI to improve efficiency, streamline operations, and enhance user experiences.
Underground transportation systems, led by companies like Elon Musk’s Boring Company, started gaining momentum. The idea of high-speed tunnels aimed to reduce traffic congestion and provide faster travel options. Projects such as Hyperloop and subterranean rail systems were being tested in various locations, signaling a shift toward innovative urban mobility solutions.
5G wireless networks were set to revolutionize connectivity. With significantly faster speeds and lower latency compared to previous generations, 5G promised to transform home and mobile internet experiences. Major telecom providers like AT&T and Verizon began rolling out limited services, setting the stage for broader adoption in the coming years.
Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency, continued to attract attention in 2018. Its price fluctuations made it both a speculative investment and a growing payment method. More merchants accepted Bitcoin, and its role in the financial landscape became increasingly prominent. However, concerns about security and volatility remained key challenges.
Augmented reality (AR) also saw a major push, especially on mobile devices. Apple and Facebook invested heavily in AR development, enabling users to interact with digital content in real-world environments. Apps like IKEA Place and AR filters on social media platforms demonstrated the growing potential of AR in everyday use.
Driverless car technology reached a milestone in 2018. Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, launched the first commercial driverless ride-hailing service in Phoenix, Arizona. This marked a significant step forward in autonomous vehicle technology and set a precedent for future developments in the sector.
New solar technologies, such as hot solar cells, showed promise in improving energy efficiency. Researchers at MIT explored advanced materials and processes that could double the performance of traditional solar panels, offering a more sustainable and efficient energy solution.
Home virtual assistants, like Amazon Echo and Google Home, became more popular as smart homes expanded. These devices offered voice-controlled access to information, entertainment, and home automation, making them essential tools for modern living.
Quantum computing continued to evolve, with companies like Google and IBM making significant progress. Although still in early stages, quantum computers have the potential to solve complex problems much faster than classical systems, opening new possibilities in fields like cryptography, medicine, and climate modeling.
Surgical robots became more common in operating rooms, with companies like Intuitive Surgical and Google’s Verb Surgical advancing their capabilities. These robots assist surgeons in performing precise procedures, improving outcomes and reducing recovery times.
Flying taxis were no longer just a concept. Companies, including a Chinese startup, announced plans to launch commercial air taxi services in 2018, bringing futuristic transportation closer to reality.
Laser-based internet solutions, such as those developed by Alphabet’s X division, aimed to bring high-speed connectivity to remote areas. Using spatial optics, these systems transmitted data via laser signals, offering a fast and reliable alternative to traditional infrastructure.
The Internet of Things (IoT) continued to grow, with billions of connected devices transforming industries and daily life. As IoT adoption expanded, so did the need for improved security and interoperability, prompting the development of more robust platform software.
Finally, AR headsets made a comeback with products like Magic Leap’s Lightwear. Designed for immersive experiences, these devices represented a new frontier in wearable technology, blending digital content with the physical world.
While not all of these trends achieved widespread success in 2018, they reflected the direction of technological progress. Many of these innovations laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs, demonstrating the dynamic nature of the tech industry.
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