The world has gone from only knowing how to operate a computer or knowing how to type, the new decade will usher in innovations that will disrupt industries and how we work. The top technology trends disrupting industries now and even in the future are:
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
Without doubt, AI is one of the biggest tech trends at the moment, cutting across most industries, Health Care, Banking and Finance, Agriculture, Transport etc. Artificial Intelligence simply means the collection of different technologies to allow machines to think or act like humans and with the use of data and algorithms, they make decisions.
Use cases in Nigeria and/or Africa : Banking: UBA developed its personal chatbot, Leo while Access Bank operates the Ada chatbot. ECommerce: Touchabl - this startup is using AI to improve the ecommerce experience of shoppers, all with a click on a picture, people can search and shop for items. Law: Law Repository Nigeria uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to process pre-filled information into a legally binding document. See also, LawPadi, Gavel etc.
2. Cloud and Edge Computing
Cloud computing - data is stored on other computers and accessed via the internet. Edge computing - simply, this is where data is processed on smart devices, it brings data storage and compute power closer to the data source where it is most needed.
Use Cases : In Nigeria, we have Cloudflex Computing Limited, Cybercloud Platform Limited etc. Other companies include : Cisco, Alibaba, Amazon Web Services, Netflix, Instagram, Pinterest etc.
3. The Internet of Things (IoT)
The IoT is essentially a system where interrelated or internet connected objects are able to connect and exchange data over a wireless network. It allows devices to interact, collaborate and learn from each other the same way humans do. Examples of IoT to know; Connected appliance, Smart home security systems, Wearable Health Monitors, Ultra-high speed wireless internet.
Use Cases : There is the EDT for Accurate Dispensing of Medicine (Namibia). Others include : GRIT Systems' G1 Product, Fasmicro's Zenvus, Obuno IoT Engine (Nigeria).
4. Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is a digital ledger of transactions that is duplicated and distributed across the entire network of computer systems. Blockchain makes it impossible to change, hack, or cheat the system.
Use Cases: De Beers - blockchain used to authenticate diamonds across Africa. In South Africa, a retail store known as Pick n Pay accepted bitcoin as a means of payment. Some other companies using blockchain include: Barclays, Unilever, Walmart, pFizer etc.
5. Digitally Extended Realities.
Encompassing mixed reality, virtual reality and augmented reality. It is an environment that combines virtual and physical realities using computer technology or wearable technologies as in: augmented reality, virtual reality and mixed reality.
Use Cases : In Nigeria : Imisi 3D, Stan Lab, Taeillo, Quadron Studios etc. Examples of other companies are Imaginovation, Point in Time studios, Bottle Rocket Media etc.
This is my response to the TASK 5 of Hashnode Technical Writing Bootcamp BY Anna Mcdougall.
All use cases are from Nigeria/Africa.