Top 5 Emerging Technologies of 2019

The rapid development of technology paves the way for more trends this year. Exponential growth only enables an unparalleled change and a constant need for learning. We must stay on track with the latest, as upgrades come in faster paces than before.

2019 is a year of technological marvel and growth. As such, here are the top 5 emerging technologies that are expected to shine this year and beyond:

1.) Blockchain

Blockchain technology can be correlated to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, but it can also offer security in other fields. To put in layman's terms, blockchain is described as the chains or series of data that are only added, not taken or changed. Security by blockchain more enhanced due to being a consensus-driven mechanism. This means that there is no single entity with control of the data, and no third-party is needed for validating multiple transactions.

2.) 5G

Data analysis and movement are now faster thanks to the recent proliferation of 5G networks. With 5G, more complex applications can be developed to solve problems and spur growth across other industries. Start-up businesses like autonomous vehicles could gain more solutions with the use of greater speeds and latency. Furthermore, more widespread deployment of 5G could usher in a bigger competition between emerging markets and their more mature partners.

3.) Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Interactions between businesses and their respective customers have increased in sophistication due to several improvements in AI like bots and intelligent websites. Decision-making speeds, data security, and user outputs have become more enhanced with AI, and are making progress across all sectors, from finance and retail merchandising to health care planning and gaming. Companies that maximize their employment of AI are now likely to achieve greater resource efficiency and lower maintenance costs in staff and other assets.

4.) Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

To those who do not know the difference, Virtual Reality allows greater user immersion in an environment. On the other hand, Augmented Reality enhances real-world environments with interactive digital elements such as visual overlays and sensory projections. Both technologies have tremendous potentials in fields like entertainment, military training, education, and even physical rehabilitation.

In the realms of entertainment, the popular mobile app named “Pokemon Go” serves as an example of an AR gaming system for millions of users. Meanwhile, the US military has recently commissioned a simulation software called VirtualShip to train incoming servicemen and women of all affiliated branches. Schools using AR animated content and 3-dimensional models can enhance learning for all students and athletes. Lastly, some physical therapists now engage with patients with musculoskeletal injuries in clinical and home settings using “Spark”. It is a low-cost AR physical therapy platform designed with interactive floor and wall-mounted projectors and customized exercises for more effective therapeutic programs.

5.) Light Fidelity (Li-Fi)

Light Fidelity serves as the next evolution of connectivity with its speeds up to 1,000 times faster than Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi). Li-Fi makes use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for faster data transmission and allows bidirectional transmissions of light. In contrast to the radio spectrum used in Wi-Fi, the visible light communications in Li-Fi are made possible with special chips outfitted in every LED lightbulb. The ease in manufacturing of LEDs and versatility makes Li-Fi a potentially cheaper alternative to its older counterpart. International experts have recently gathered at the Global LiFi Congress 2019 in Paris, France to determine the direction of the growing Li-Fi technology. Meanwhile, PureLiFi has successfully demonstrated its "Gigabit LiFi" system at the Mobile World Congress 2019 in Barcelona, Spain.