Technology, the 10 trends of 2024

Technological innovation advances at extraordinary speed, shaping the way we live, work, and communicate. There are several trends ahead in 2024 that could radically transform our world. Between artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented reality, and new proposals for sustainability, the top technological trends of 2024 promise to lead our society towards an increasingly connected and cutting-edge future.

Whether you are a professional or an enthusiast, looking to the future while staying up to date on emerging technologies is necessary to discover which skills to acquire and thus secure a secure job in the world of technologies.

In this article, we’ll look at the top technological trends of 2024, exploring the technological processes that will help create an increasingly connected, intelligent, and sustainable world.

The 10 technology trends of 2024

Money.it has selected 10 technological trends that are changing the way we live and work. The year 2024 looms as a revolutionary time in the world of technology. The selected trends are destined to radically transform the way we interact with digital. These not only reflect the acceleration of innovation but open the doors to exciting future scenarios.

1) Datafication

By datafication we mean the technological process by which a vast range of aspects concerning social or individual life are transformed first into data and subsequently into information of economic value.

This phenomenon involves the collection, analysis, and transformation of data from various sources. It transforms personal and social details into valuable resources for analysis, prediction, and creation of economic value, thus influencing the understanding and management of social and individual dynamics.

The growing demand and renewed interest on the part of individuals, companies, or specific sectors to implement and exploit the practice of datafication, and the corresponding growth of the market, depends largely on the increase in the amount of data generated on social media and, in general, from the ongoing digital transformation process.

In 2024, the projected global market value of datafication is $393.07 billion and is expected to reach more than $1.1 trillion by 2032. Ultimately, this process of digital transformation will continue in 2024 to allow companies to optimize their products and services thanks to real-time data analysis.

2) Generative artificial intelligence

Generative AI represents a field of artificial intelligence that deals with the creation of systems or algorithms capable of generating content autonomously, often in a creative and innovative way. These systems are capable of producing new data, images, text, or other types of information that were not previously entered during the software training process.

ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Dall-E are just three examples of the application of generative AI. According to research carried out by FERPI and Ipsos, 77% of survey participants consider generative AI apps useful.

Even in this area, requests for professional figures are multiplying. Some of these are AI researchers, content creators, and AI ethics consultants, who deal with the ethical implications of content generated by AI.

3) Machine learning

Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that deals with the development of algorithms and models capable of learning from data and improving their performance over time without being explicitly programmed. In other words, unlike traditional programs that follow specific instructions, machine learning models are able to learn from past experiences and other data to make predictions or take action.

The 2024 outlook for machine learning is very promising and spans a wide range of industries. From health care to scientific research and the production of goods, services, and energy. For example, in healthcare, it could be used to make medical diagnoses and personalize treatments.

According to a recent study by Workday, 80% of the approximately 1000 managers participating in the survey believe that AI and machine learning can help employees work better.

4) 3D Print

The role of 3D printing technology is growing in multiple sectors, such as medicine, aerospace, automotive and large-scale manufacturing.

In 2024, new 3D printers could use new materials to expand the range of possible applications. One of the most important revolutions expected this year from this technology concerns the bio-printing of tissues and organs. A practice that would revolutionize the field of transplants and regenerative medicine.

5) Genomics

Genomics is a technology that allows us to study the genome, i.e. the complete set of genes of an organism. The genome contains all the genetic information necessary for the development, growth, function, and reproduction of an organism. This technology can essentially help analyze genes and lead to the discovery of diseases.

It represents another field in which the requests for professionals will multiply in 2024. Some of the most sought-after job figures in the field are bioinformaticians, bioinformatics analysts, genome research analysts, and full-stack developers.

6) Blockchain

The blockchain is a technology that allows the creation and management of a distributed and immutable digital register on which to record transactions and more. It underpins cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, but its applications go far beyond digital currencies.

It is used to improve transparency and traceability in supply chains, facilitate financial transactions without intermediaries, and ensure ownership and authenticity of digital assets. Its decentralized and secure nature makes it a significant innovation across several industries. Some of the sectors where rapid growth is expected in 2024 are healthcare, real estate, energy, education, and public administration.

To work in the Blockchain field you need to know programming languages, flat and relational databases, OOPS fundamentals, web and networking app development, and data structures.

7) Virtual reality and augmented reality

augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are technologies that offer interactive and immersive experiences, but with different approaches. The first overlays digital elements, such as images, sounds, or information, on the real world through devices such as smartphones, tablets, or smart glasses. The second creates a completely virtual and immersive environment, separated from the real world.

Virtual reality and augmented reality were originally used in gaming. However, this has also found applications in training. One example is VirtualShip, a simulation software used to train captains of U.S. Navy, Army, and Coast Guard ships.

Further integration of these technologies into our daily lives is expected in 2024. Often operating in synergy with other emerging technologies, augmented reality and virtual reality boast considerable potential in the fields of training, entertainment, education, marketing , and even medicine. Both technologies could be used to train medical professionals to perform surgical procedures, offer museum visitors a more immersive experience, enhance theme park offerings, or optimize marketing strategies.

8) Quantum computing

Quantum computing is a field of computer science research that deals with the development of algorithms and hardware based on the principles of quantum mechanics. Unlike classical computers, which use traditional bits (0 or 1), quantum computers exploit qubits. These can exist in multiple states simultaneously thanks to a phenomenon called quantum superposition.

This technology has been useful, for example, in preventing the spread of the coronavirus and in the development of potential vaccines, thanks to the ability to easily monitor, analyze, and act on data. Another field in which it is finding application is banking and finance. In this case, it can help in credit risk management, high-frequency trading, and fraud detection.

9) New energy solutions

In the context of technological evolution and growing concerns for the environment, innovation in the energy sector is gaining more and more relevance. New energy solutions are emerging as creative and sustainable responses to the challenges of energy production, distribution, and consumption.

This field of alternative energy is also opening doors for new careers related to the environment and data. Some of the jobs that you can find in the new energy field are energy specialist (solar, thermal, hydroelectric), climate strategy specialist, renewable energy technologist, etc.

10) Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things promises to be a technological revolution destined to significantly shape our daily lives and transform the way in which companies operate.

Already today, as consumers, we benefit from its advantages. For example, with the smart home, we can manage daily functions remotely. In the business context, collecting and analyzing data from connected devices allows companies to gain a detailed overview of their operations. Even in the manufacturing sector, IoT allows predictive maintenance, which allows you to predict and prevent machinery failures. In the healthcare sector, it accelerates medical care through remote monitoring and wearable devices, ensuring more efficient management of chronic diseases and better assistance.

To date, we are only at the beginning of this transformation. Predictions indicate that by 2030 the number of IoT devices in use worldwide will exceed 50 billion, paving the way for new opportunities and challenges.

From new applications of generative AI to blockchain, from the development of 3D printing to the implementation of new sustainable energy solutions, 2024 promises to be a year full of promise. The selected trends open the doors to exciting future scenarios. However, for new technologies to become tools for the improvement of humanity, in-depth understanding, continuous updating of knowledge, and, of course, fair regulation of all the tools we have are necessary.

Original article published on Money.it Italy 2024-01-04 13:45:14. Original title: Tecnologia, i 10 trend del 2024