As we emerge blinking into 2016, what awaits us in the fast-paced world of technology? Here's my pick of the emerging trends.
Virtual reality
Virtual reality solutions have been the dream of gamers and fantasists for years, but the necessary technology is now on the cusp of finally coming of age.
Real world applications are driving this sector forward with simulated surgeries taking place to train medical students. The benefits of true immersive solutions become apparent when you analyse the behavioural differences of an individual doing the same tasks but in alternative environments.
Mainstream usage will be derived as usual from the entertainment industry with Sony, HTC and Oculus investing in games technology and introducing ways to put viewers into films with a first-person perspective.
Imagine being thrust into the middle of a Game of Thrones battle or able to experience the tension of a real-life court case from the comfort of your own home.
Communications speeds
5G or fifth generation mobile communication is being tested and could go into operation late next year. Reportedly offering speeds 100 times faster than 4G, it promises to revolutionise mobile interactions.
Streaming HD on the train while tethering your laptop for work will soon become as common as dodging pigeons on the high street.
Universal data security
Companies and individuals are generating and sharing more data than ever with increasing demands to host and secure that information soaring to the clouds.
Electronic documents of the past have been troublesome to protect as internal rights and permissions get lost when that data is let loose on the internet.
Only PDF documents and encrypted data could prevent tampering externally, but these are akin to giving a set of your house keys to the stranger who completes your tax returns.
Providing true security comes with governance at the source with that same rule-set being present throughout the life of the data.
Companies like Microsoft are actively seeking to implement universal security and have recently acquired Secure Islands who specialise in securing and tracking data wherever it ends up.
Medical microchips
Just like home automation, the medical industry is utilising the benefits of smart monitoring. From detecting illness to dispensing medicine direct to the bloodstream, this technology will revolutionise the speed and effectiveness with which we receive medical attention.
Microchips planted in the brain could soon allow mechanical prosthetics to be controlled wirelessly and seamlessly by the user.
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