Ten digital developments that will change the world

Technology has the power to change our world – but what will be the next big development? Here are our predictions.

1. Mobile phones will be able to detect cancer

We know that dogs can detect some cancers using smell. Others can be spotted based on our physiology, or through blood tests. By introducing low-cost kits and mobile apps to smartphones, people will be able to check from their own homes.

2. Cyber security issues will lead to even greater mistrust in banks

Financial systems rely on computers. This means they’re vulnerable. Financial institutions do what they can to minimise threats to their data, but should we really trust these systems to look after our money? On our courses, you’ll explore potential solutions like blockchain systems and their own set of vulnerabilities.

3. The drones are coming

Drones are already in use by emergency services, but their improved size, cost, battery life and capabilities mean they will be put to better use to help people in dangerous environments like war zones and natural disasters.

4. Biotechnology to replace body parts

We soon could be seeing devices that detect brain waves or nerve signals to control prosthetic limbs, without the need for invasive surgery. Robot arm, anyone?

5. The intelligent cloud

As more and more data is stored in the cloud, Artificial Intelligence can draw more on big data to learn about us as we go about our lives. Let’s hope it’s used for good.

6. Bumper to bumper communication

Today's driver-assisted vehicles can analyse and react to driving conditions. The future will likely mean that cars can broadcast this information to other road users to warn about hazardous driving conditions, obstacles and emergency braking.

7. Learn by playing games 

The process of ‘gamification’ is a way of learning by completing a set of fun activities. By activating the pleasure circuit in the brain, this could pave the way for more AR learning, with quicker and more effective results.

8. AI in business operations analysis

Artificial Intelligence is constantly on the rise, and when combined with Machine Learning it can analyse big data sets and solve big problems. Within the next few years, it could be used to analyse business operations to discover recurring issues across a range of companies and industries.

9. Autonomous vehicles

Big companies are already investing millions in the development of self-driving vehicles. They could offer a solution for over congestion, with the ability to book vehicles for individual journeys, and cut the need for parking. This comes with all sorts of privacy, security and risk issues however. Would you get behind the wheel?

10. Everyday uses for AI

This could take a lot of decision-making to do with healthcare, education and criminal justice out of our hands. This trend could lead to unexpected consequences, and could become even more complex with data protection and data security.

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