Last year was big for anyone interested in technology with UX, big data and smart machines taking centre stage. 2018 promises to be even more exciting taking transformative tech trends to a whole new level. AI, Intelligent apps and Analytics will play an even bigger part in our lives. Not to mention advancements in VR/AR, Marketing Automation, e-commerce applications, blockchain architecture and quantum computing.

Bill Gates once said that “most people overestimate the amount of change that will occur in two years and underestimate the change that will occur over ten years.”

With that in mind, let’s take a look at 7 transformative technology trends for 2018!

  1. Artificial Intelligence, Apps and Analytics As A Major Transformative Technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more prevalent and it’s starting to enable intelligent apps into our lives. Technology is becoming more insightful and aware of context. Digital is also becoming more immersive and autonomous with deep learning and machine learning at the forefront in 2018. Designers are integrating and augmenting our everyday lives with technologies such as facial recognition, semantic and sentiment analysis, conversational interfaces and affective computing (emotions). Some examples within this field include Alexa, Cortana, Siri and Google Home/mini.

Thanks to AI, analytics is also more accurate. Augmented analytics is helping data scientists and end users gain better insights and extends far beyond just one industry. Technology like this can be used across numerous sectors including digital and social media marketing.

  1. Rise of AI and Smart IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping life as we know it from the home to the office and beyond. IoT products provide us with greater control over appliances, lights, and doors which is just the beginning. Who knows what the next 5 years hold for IoT. In fact, reports suggest that we will have 75 billion connected devices by 2020 and they will also be part of an intelligent, global eco-system.

These smart devices also help streamline business processes and more effectively connect us with the people, systems and environments shaping our lives. They will constantly gather data, connect and share in intelligent ways to solve a myriad of desired goals.

  1. Edge Computing and IoT

The rapid growth of IoT/IoE and intelligent apps mean we need distributed computing for analytics and decision-making. The ability to do advanced on-device processing and analytics is referred to as “edge computing.” The dependency of IoT infrastructure for near real-time solutions will require us to overcome connectivity, latency and bandwidth constraints. Edge computing will have a similar effect on the IoT, driving a strong ecosystem where end-user devices are more powerful and capable of complex applications.

Edge computing can also improve security and privacy by storing sensitive data within the device. For example, a digital marketing agency using a system to deliver targeted ads and content based on key parameters such as demographic information. Edge computing in these situations helps protect user privacy by analysing and keeping the necessary data on the device instead of sending sensitive information to the cloud.

  1. Unimaginable Power With Quantum Computing

The introduction of quantum theory in computing has enabled a significant transformation in computing power. One such example is an unsupervised machine learning at a scale unthinkable with our current computers. It will enable advanced problem-solving capabilities impossible with our today’s technology. In fact, IBM recently announced a 50 qubit prototype quantum computer chip which means we should see a 100-200+ qubit system in 2018.

  1. The Blockchain Architecture

A blockchain is a continuously growing list of records, called blocks, linked and secured using cryptography. Data is decentralised so no company or individual has access to the entire chain meaning the architecture is highly secure. Industries adopting this technology mainly include financial, insurance, healthcare, government and networking/IoT.

  1. Immersive, Virtual- and Augmented Reality

Today Virtual Reality (VR) is an isolating experience as the heads-up display and smartphone interfaces seem primarily geared towards a single individual experience. This is set to change in the not so distant future. Soon we will see AR/VR allowing multiple users to play, work, learn and explore the same virtual world and alternate realities.

VR is said to go big in 2018 and the main reason is the FIFA World Cup. Companies like NBC Universal/Telemundo believe VR will bring fans to the sidelines of all the matches. This in itself could provide brands investing in VR an incredible investment opportunity. It will also help further the adoption of VR in the mass market, especially with recent price reductions.

  1. Technology and Marketing Automation

An organisation’s website and social media are the most important channels but also difficult to execute effectively. That is, without professional guidance. Marketing automation is growing in popularity with new technology and simpler digital access making our world even more digitally focused.

The development of artificial intelligence algorithms allows us to collect a vast amount of data from a lead’s social network, online purchases and app downloads. Accurate data capturing and automation software allow for a more personalised marketing effort to the masses. Marketing across different devices is just one example. Most marketing automation systems can track and understand customer buying habits, online behaviour and variations depending on their device. Mass marketing may be a thing of the past but mass personalisation is the new and improved version.

On the other hand, businesses who fail to implement some form of digital marketing will fall behind and play second fiddle to the competition.

What trends are applicable to your industry and how is your organisation planning ahead? Contact WSI eMarketing today to discuss your marketing strategy for 2018. We can assist in all things digital including Marketing Automation, Mobile Marketing, PPC, SEO, Social Media Management and more.

 

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