The future of computer technology in 2025 is a fascinating place to be. There’s a whole slew of new technologies on the horizon that will change how we work, play, and even communicate. Whether it’s augmented reality, quantum computing, or 5G network subscriptions, these are just a few of the emerging trends that we’re observing.
Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality is a type of computer technology that is designed to enhance a real-world object with computer-generated information. It is used for a variety of applications, including gaming, education, business, entertainment, and research and development.
The first augmented reality product, EyeTap, was a portable computer that was placed in front of a person’s eye. Using a camera, it superimposed images on top of the user’s vision.
Since then, new immersive technologies have come into the market. These are primarily aimed at high-end enterprise markets. Some examples of AR applications include medical devices, games, and GPS navigation.
With the widespread adoption of mobile devices, many companies are finding ways to integrate augmented reality into their workflows. For example, GE uses it to improve worker efficiency.
Many medical professionals are using augmented reality to better explain patient conditions. They also use it to prepare for surgery. Surgeons can have patient records within reach during the procedure. This helps increase accuracy and reinforces the process.
One of the most popular consumer products is Google Glass. However, AR is a very large technology that is still in its early stages. Eventually, it will be fully realized when it finds a compelling platform.
Almost all contemporary fields have applications for augmented reality. In addition, it can help improve the design of products. And a major benefit is that it increases brand awareness.
Quantum computing
Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize a wide range of fields, from biology to finance to material science. This technology enables us to process massive amounts of data and make better decisions, a benefit which could be used for both process optimization and financial modeling. It may also help us live longer and healthier lives.
The most advanced quantum computers have the capability to simulate complicated chemical reactions. They can also accelerate renewable energy technologies and genomics. But the future of these advances is uncertain. Many experts believe it will take a few more years before quantum computing truly transforms the world.
However, a growing number of universities are working with the big tech firms to perfect their technology. As a result, more companies are offering QaaS. For example, Microsoft offers access to other firms’ quantum computers, allowing users to gain access to their hardware at a reasonable price.
One of the most interesting developments in the field is the possibility of designing new materials. Until now, the ability to model molecules has been impossible. With a quantum computer, we might be able to design materials that can resist wear and tear, which can be helpful for aerospace industries.
Another possible benefit of a quantum computer is the ability to solve encryption problems. In today’s world, cryptography takes centuries to solve. A quantum computer could speed up this process to seconds.
Edge computing
Edge computing is a new computer technology that extends the cloud capabilities to the network’s edge. This is beneficial for locations that have intermittent connections or limited bandwidth. Its benefits include enhanced reaction times and faster data-driven outcomes.
In order to implement an edge computing strategy, your organization must first have a clear sense of what the problem is, and what the solution is. Then you need to define a technical and commercial edge strategy.
A technical edge strategy requires you to determine what hardware and software is required. These items include routers, servers, and other on-premise devices. However, these items are only part of the equation.
The other component of your edge strategy is to establish a strong operational technology (OT) component. This is the technology that manages the software running on the client endpoints. Generally, OT is based on an industry and is tailored to that industry’s needs.
If your company is implementing edge computing, you’ll likely rely on partnerships and ecosystems to make it work. As an example, your company may partner with an edge provider for their expertise in cloud computing. Or you may provide an edge provider with a turnkey edge computing platform to install on their hardware.
You can also choose to use software-defined networking to customize the routing and bandwidth that your edge devices receive. For example, you might create an overlay network for your edge devices that connects them to the cloud.
Accelerated digital transformation
Embracing new computer technology and digital trends can help businesses thrive in a rapidly changing world. The key is to think holistically. You want to build a digital ecosystem that includes people, information, processes, and technology.
New technologies have always come with challenges. But there’s no such thing as a technological breakthrough that won’t have an impact on your business.
There are no “one-size-fits-all” solutions for digital transformation. Instead, your success will depend on the strategic investments you make in digital transformation. For example, you may need to rethink your software infrastructure, and invest in a cloud-native solution.
It’s also important to think about how you can improve the customer experience, which is the focus of many digital transformation projects. Whether it’s through a mobile application or automated workflows, your organization needs to create a frictionless customer experience.
Another useful technology is AI. With its ability to simulate optimal solutions, AI can help specialists reach data-backed decisions. In a nutshell, you can use it to augment your workforce, and it will help you find and validate the best solutions for your business.
Aside from the above mentioned technologies, there are many other factors that can help you choose a digital path. For example, you can decide to implement intelligent information management (IIM) to activate your customers. Or you can outsource your data processing to cut down on your carbon footprint.
5G network subscriptions
One of the major early use cases for 5G is fixed wireless access. This technology provides broadband internet services using 5G equipment. It can provide the same speeds as fiber-based services but it is cheaper.
The number of 5G FWA connections is expected to grow from 110 million in 2027 to almost half of the total FWA connections. This is largely due to the fact that almost 230 communications service providers have launched 5G networks.
In terms of subscriptions, Ericsson expects 5G to be the dominant mobile access technology in 2027. Its Mobility Report estimates 4.4 billion 5G subscriptions globally by the end of 2027.
While the uptake of 5G will be higher than that of 4G, it is still not available everywhere. For instance, Verizon is not deploying it nationwide, but it has plans to do so in Cleveland, Detroit, Seattle, and other US cities.
Several other carriers are launching 5G in parts of the United States. Charter’s Spectrum Mobile is rolling out nationwide coverage, and Cricket Wireless is offering services in several cities.
In addition to faster mobile connections, 5G provides reliable application performance for business users. Its speed is expected to reach 4 Gbps by 2024. With 5G, consumers will enjoy smooth streaming movies and video, as well as more accurate uploading of videos and photos.
Another important component of 5G is cloud computing. These applications will bring innovations in various industries. Besides enabling faster data processing and a better backbone for immersive experiences, 5G will help businesses provide real-time interactions with customers in sub-10ms latency.
Chatbots
Chatbots are an artificial intelligence (AI) technology that helps you answer questions about your products and services. These bots have the power to handle customer inquiries on a real-time basis, saving you time and money.
The benefits of implementing chatbots include improving the user experience and increasing sales. In addition, these bots can also serve as an internal communications tool. They allow users to send and receive messages from the company at any time of the day or night. This is a big benefit to businesses.
Chatbots are capable of handling thousands of queries at the same time. As long as you have the skills to train your bots, they can be a great tool for ensuring optimal performance. However, you need to ensure that the AI used to build your bots is ethical. It is also important to make sure that you have high quality training data.
Modern chatbots are capable of handling common queries and performing simple repetitive transactions. They use natural language processing and machine learning to understand the context of a user’s query.
One of the biggest advantages of chatbots is the ability to automate customer support. Traditionally, this is the role of a live agent. By integrating chatbots into your customer service infrastructure, you can free up agents to tackle more complex problems.
Another advantage is the way it can improve your employee experience. Chatbots can be programmed to help employees log their hours and request time off.