2014 is shaping up to be a landmark year for existing technology trends to move to the forefront of society. Here are five trends we’re predicting will be big in 2014:
Wearable technology
Google Glass. Samsung’s Galaxy Gear Smartwatch. The iWatch. With all these technologies released or on the way, and Sony and LG not far behind, there’s no denying that the trend toward mobility is now moving swiftly toward wearability.
Sure, they’re not high fashion, but in the era of the smart watch, function will overcome form by far. Features like Google Now, which will deliver information to you when and where you need it most, will make your everyday life easier.
Eventually, wearable tech will be able to track everyday activity and filter information to users based on your routines and habits.
3D printing and large-scale manufacturing
3D printing is becoming a viable alternative in virtually every engineering sector. Small businesses and individuals will start using 3D printers more and more, as their prices go down. With the rising costs of doing business in China and other international regions, manufacturers will start looking to make their products domestically. 3D printing will give them the price reductions and customization benefits they’ll look for in the near future.
Smart TVs and manufacturer-media partnerships
With 123 million smart TVs expected to be shipped this year, the way we consume television is going to change dramatically. The advent of the iTV (out this summer) and Apple’s possible collaboration with Time Warner are just some of the indicators of this trend.
Soon, the everyday TV experience will expand to include features like:
- Voice control
- Face and gesture detection
- Screen mirroring
- Second screen functions
- Wireless transference of content between devices
Apps that deliver curated media and partnerships between media networks and TV manufacturers will continue to rise as well.
Using big data to target individuals
The next few years will see a significant shift in the value of big data. Cloud-based services will give businesses of all sizes the ability to store and analyze large amounts of data. Social media platforms will similarly be used to better target their products to consumers.
Smart, connected products revolutionize cities
Products like Zipcars, smart bicycles, and driverless cars are beginning to change the way we get around. Improved software in automobiles and other products will create better and better service for consumers. As these trends develop in 2014 and beyond, sensors and cloud-enabled apps will begin to connect our homes, transportation, services, utilities, health care, and far much more.
