Emerging Technologies: What's Next in IT?

In the past 60 years, technology has evolved mesmerising fast: from the 1-ton machine with 3.5 MB of data storage to a two-terabyte card that weighs 2 grams. Nowadays, innovations tend to change every 2–3 years, so it is crucial for companies to stay abreast of the newest IT tendencies. In this article, we will highlight the most visible technologies allowing us to collaborate more effectively in virtual environments.

5G technology

5G is the fifth-generation latest iteration of cellular technology, known for enhanced responsiveness and speed of wireless networks. Thus, 5G allows data to be transferred by wireless broadband connections. According to calculations, the peak speeds reach 20 gigabits per second, offering less than 5 milliseconds of latency. In addition to it, 5G provides users with network management tools created for businesses on an as-a-service basis. Network slicing can be very practical for self-driving cars and their real-time navigation.

Other examples of apps based on 5G technology:

1. Light and manufacturing industries. For controlling each phase of manufacturing, companies actively apply 5G alongside AI and ML. Through the joint force of technologies, manufacturers can collect comprehensive data on machines’ performance, which results in enhanced productivity and lower expenses.?
2. Healthcare. With the help of 5G (namely patient telemetry and high-resolution video provided by the 5G technology), hospital doctors can cooperate with field paramedics. Prompt decision-making and diagnosing before and during transportation help ambulances save valuable minutes, when every second matters.?
3. Retail. Try before buy technology has become almost ubiquitous among retail market leaders. For VR and AR dressing rooms, it is exceptionally important to process massive amounts of data promptly. So, 5G is very helpful for accelerating the process of data exchange and creating a more personalised user experience.?

Quantum computing

In contrast to classical computing, quantum mechanics implies qubits, which results in faster calculations compared to classical computing. The technology is currently in its infancy, so there are various practical and technical challenges to tackle. Speaking of these challenges in more detail, they are mainly associated with error-fixing technologies, improved algorithms and enhancing the systems’ scalability and stability. One area of quantum computing application is linked to Machine Learning technology, aiming at better pattern recognition and data analysis.

Further application of the technology comprising the following examples:

• In material science and chemistry

Quantum computing stimulates complex chemical interactions and reactions so that the discovery of new substances is conducted more efficiently. Even if substances are considered undruggable, the quantum-inspired algorithms detect their intricate composition.?

• In cryptography

Quantum computing possesses two-sided qualities: the technology can be used for encryption algorithms breaking, and at the same time, applied for expanding computing power and strengthening existing cybersecurity tools.?

• In logistics

The technology aims at finding the most optimal ways of deliveries by using fewer transportation options. As a result, implementing quantum computers may lead to decreasing CO2 emissions and delivery expenses.?

Edge computing

Primary benefits of the technology include decreased latency and better service performance, as the data is located at the network’s edge. As a result, businesses can interact with customers more promptly, and offer more accurate and personalised AR experiences. Moreover, companies do not need to opt for costly infrastructure - thanks to reducing latency, innovative AR experiences become more accessible.

Possible areas of the technology application in manufacturing and energy:

• Streamlining operations in real-time

Sometimes, several control systems may not interact with each other coherently. By applying IoT and edge computing technologies, enterprises obtain smoother event correlations and predict possible operational failures.

• Better energy management

Metering electrical load in times of highest energy consumption and powering down some elements of energy systems ensures more efficient energy consumption. Another helpful practice for the latter is edge application development - the solution will adapt and optimise consumption automatically in line with fluctuating costs.?

• Robust site security

The joined forces of edge computing, computer vision and BLE help companies take advantage of security cameras and security badge readers. That can be a case of an innovative makeover of staff members’ ID badges.?

If you need to turn to IT solutions of the future, please, contact the PNN Soft Team for further consultancy.