Mark Zuckerberg predicted back in July 2016, that we would one day be able to talk with our minds and get access to the internet from orbital-lasers beaming “stuff” down to the Earth. Although it may take long to achieve goals like these, 2016 will still be filled with incremental technological improvements to make life easier and better. Here are top trends that the industry is likely to follow and improveon in 2016:
- Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality
Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality shined on a consumer level in 2016 and companies are likely to keep focusing on it this year. VR may be the next big thing for consumers while AR will keep focusing on the workplace. HTC’s Valve’s Vive VR headset is going to hit the market very soon and people are already excited about its launch. Companies are also focusing on the VR content in addition to the hardware.
- Wearables
The idea of wearing tiny data-collecting digital watches also gained popularity recently and the trend is expected to continue. Compared to 2015, when 12 exhibitors showcased their wearable products, in 2016 a total of 33 exhibitors are planning to showcase their products (more 3 times that of last year). The gadgets will continue to include more and more sensors and applications to prove their worth when it comes to personal and health management. It will not take long before these wearable get connected to the internet directly without relying on other mobile devices.
- Smartcars
It may take another few years before the Smartcars become fully autonomous vehicles, but 2016 is going to be an important year in that journey. Some reports suggest and Google and Ford may create a joint venture to speed up the process.
- AI (Artificial Intelligence)
Artificial Intelligence, AI or the machine learning technology will continue to be incorporated into gadgets, software and services in 2016. Robots will probably be the focus as they have the potentials to open up new horizons for tech giants. Different applications of smart robots include home cleaners, retail assistants and a number of other recurring jobs.
- Drones
Drones continue to penetrate into the consumer market as Federal Aviation Administration n the USA, predicted that over one million drones were sold in the 2015’s holiday season. Experts believe that the market for drones is exploding and the trend is expected to continue in 2016.
- Self-charging phones
Charging smartphones through wavelengths is also something tech companies are focusing on. Serving as a central hub like a wireless router, these chargers can push out targeted energy to charge devices, using wavelengths without wire connections. Smartphone batteries are long due for a major overhaul.
What other trends do you think are sure to come to the fore in 2016?
