10 technologies shaping our world right now
The best promising technologies of 2024 (Illustrative photo: Freepik)
Modern technologies are changing our world faster than ever, impacting all aspects of our lives - from communication to medicine and ecology. Many of these technologies, which seemed futuristic not long ago, have become an integral part of everyday reality.
These are 10 technologies that are currently transforming our world and continue to set the direction for its development, according to the World Economic Forum website.
AI for scientific discovery
Although artificial intelligence (AI) has been used in research for many years, advancements in deep learning, generative AI, and foundational models are revolutionizing the process of scientific discovery. AI will enable researchers to make unprecedented discoveries and advancements in understanding diseases, developing new materials, and expanding knowledge about the human body and mind.
Privacy-enhancing technologies
By protecting personal privacy while simultaneously providing new opportunities for global data exchange and collaboration, "synthetic data" aims to change the approach to processing information in powerful medical research programs.
Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces
These innovative surfaces transform ordinary walls and surfaces into intelligent components for wireless communication while enhancing the energy efficiency of wireless networks. They promise numerous applications, from smart factories to transportation networks.
High-altitude platform stations
Using aircraft, airships, and balloons, these systems can expand access to mobile networks in remote areas, helping to close the digital divide for more than 2.6 billion people worldwide.
Integrated sensing and communication
The emergence of 6G networks facilitates simultaneous data collection (sensing) and transmission (communication). This enables the creation of environmental monitoring systems that assist in smart agriculture, environmental protection, and urban planning. Integrated sensing and communication devices also promise to reduce energy and silicon consumption.
Immersive technology for the built world
By combining computing power with virtual and augmented reality, these technologies promise rapid improvements in infrastructure and everyday systems. They will allow designers and builders to verify the compliance of physical and digital models, ensuring accuracy, and safety, and promoting sustainable development.
Elastocalorics
As global temperatures rise, the need for cooling solutions for the environment will increase. Offering higher efficiency and lower energy consumption, elastocalorics emit and absorb heat under mechanical stress, providing an eco-friendly alternative to existing technologies.
Carbon-capturing microbes
Genetically modified organisms convert emissions into valuable products, such as biofuels, offering a promising approach to mitigating the effects of climate change.
Alternative livestock feeds
Protein feeds for animals derived from single-cell proteins, algae, and food waste could become a sustainable solution for the agricultural sector.
Genomics for transplants
The successful implantation of genetically modified organs into humans represents a significant achievement in healthcare, providing hope for millions of people awaiting transplants.
