2023 has seen various trends take center stage in an ever-evolving digital landscape; with the metaverse and chatbots relapsing various industries such as healthcare, retail, and fashion respectively. Not only are such trends affecting the way we live our day-to-day lives, but workforces continue to be shaped by current trends.
By 2026, generative AI will significantly alter 70% of the design and development effort for new web applications and mobile apps. - Gartner
Which trends are set to have an impact in 2024?
The concept of the metaverse has been on the lips of many for a while, but 2024 is set to be a pivotal year for its development. The metaverse, a virtual shared space, will continue to offer new opportunities for businesses to engage with customers, conduct commerce, and explore creative ways to connect in a virtual world. It won’t be a surprise if major names like Meta, Google, and various startups make substantial strides in metaverse development.
Artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to advance and permeate every aspect of our lives. From healthcare to customer service and beyond, AI will be increasingly integrated, making our interactions more personalised, efficient, and effective. As a result, we can expect digital marketing efforts to be increasingly personalised, offering unique customer journeys in a bid to build loyalty. Look out for AI-driven products and services, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and predictive analytics, becoming the norm.
The rollout of 5G networks has been ongoing, but 2024 will see it reach new heights. As the infrastructure matures, we'll likely witness faster and more reliable internet connections. As a result, this will pave the way for innovations such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and IoT to reach their full potential. This will revolutionise the way we connect, work, and play.
Blockchain technology will extend its reach beyond cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. It will find applications in various sectors, from supply chain management to digital identity verification. Its ability to provide security, transparency, and immutability will continue to drive innovation and disrupt traditional processes.
Sustainability is a trend that all businesses are taking seriously, due to consumer concern. With the growing concern for the environment, expect a surge in sustainable technology solutions. Businesses will prioritise eco-friendly practices, and consumers will demand products and services that align with sustainability goals.
Remote work is by no means a new trend. Accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, remote and hybrid working is here to stay. The digital workplace will continue to evolve, with enhanced tools for collaboration, cybersecurity, and work-life balance. Flexibility and remote work options will become ingrained in company cultures.
With increased awareness of data breaches and privacy concerns, 2024 will see more stringent regulations and a shift towards enhanced data protection. Individuals will gain more control over their data, and businesses will need to adapt their data practices accordingly.
The healthcare industry will experience a significant digital transformation. Telehealth services will become more advanced, AI-driven diagnostics will improve patient care, and wearable health tech will empower individuals to monitor their well-being closely. Technologies such as Machine Learning will continue to provide solutions to professionals and patients throughout 2024.
While still in its early stages, quantum computing will begin to demonstrate its potential for solving complex problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of classical computers. This technology promises breakthroughs in cryptography, materials science, and more. According to a report by the Financial Times, the UK is set to invest £2.5bn into quantum computing.
Ecommerce will continue to evolve, with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies enhancing the online shopping experience. Expect new ways to interact with products and try before you buy in the comfort of your own home. Social media applications will incorporate ecommerce capabilities to boost the shopping experience for customers and drive sales. TikTok Shop is driving social commerce activity and will continue to do so in 2024.
These trends are set to shape the digital landscape in 2024 and beyond. Staying informed and embracing these innovations can provide individuals and businesses with a competitive edge in an ever-changing world. Whether it's the metaverse, AI, 5G, or sustainable tech, 2024 promises to be a year of exciting opportunities and transformative change.