2019 is set to be another fast-paced year for advancements in emerging technologies and the impact they have on our everyday lives. As an innovative digital development agency, the SixPorts team always has its finger on the pulse when it comes to these advancements, analysing ways that businesses can take advantage of them.

Here are a few of the key emerging technology trends that we can expect to see more of in 2019…

Internet of Things (IoT)

The IoT and Smart ‘things’ in general have been growing in popularity over the past few years at an exponential rate – 2019 is set to be no different. We have seen smart integrations with a range of everyday objects including vehicles, wearables, appliances and everything in-between with the aim to make them more efficient and more functional. We predict that there will be accelerated growth within this market and the smart home revolution will continue to grow with users exploiting the technology to help with daily tasks.

The SixPorts team also predict that in 2019 smart cities/towns will become more prevalent with some councils utilising the technology available to offer a better experience for visitors.

5G

Arguably one of the most anticipated trends for 2019 is the introduction of 5G and the impact that is set to have on technology across the board. The faster technology is predicted to take us into the age of ‘everything connected’, accelerating the capabilities of the IoT market allowing millions of devices to be connected at the same time – This could be the missing puzzle in the Smart Cities concept. The SixPorts team, therefore, expect to see a bigger push for 5G connectivity and huge waves made to fuel these advancements.

Machine Learning & AI

AI and machine learning are allowing us to predict the future by using the past which could be hugely beneficial for many industries. According to the International Data Corporation figures show AI industry will set a new benchmark which will rise by up to $40 billion by the end of the year 2020. Early use cases have seen AI being combined with Machine learning to analyse huge amounts of data and providing valuable actionable insights and real-time analytics.

We can expect to be reading more about companies discovering how they can use AI and machine learning to read and interpret their data in the year to follow.

Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality

2018 was meant to be the year of VR & AR, however, hit a stumbling block when businesses attempted to identify how to monetise the platform on a regular basis.  There were some great case studies around long-form journalism, gaming and for training purposes, however, this year will be all about how to use the platform to engage with customers better with AR looking the more favourable.

Any other advancements

2019 is introducing us to an era of digital solutions that offer more convenience, personalised solutions and unparalleled experiences to users. We are entering an exciting time for emerging technologies, including one of the biggest technological disruptors – blockchain, which will re-shape the levels of security in all types of digital transactions. Mobile payments are set to increase with consumers changing the way they shop and opting for cashless payments. It’s set to be an exciting year to see how these trends unfold and others gain momentum. If you would like to find out any more about these trends feel free to reach out to one of the team who will be delighted to hear from you.