Technology has become an intrinsic part of life, more so in the COVID-19 era. We have seen significant growth in consumer-facing technology such as digital payments, telehealth, productivity aids, communication tools, and robotics or AI-driven equipment. Some of these trends are irreversible and will continue to shape the technological developments of the next year. Research of technology trends at PGA Labs indicates seven trends.
1. Cybersecurity: The increased use of technological tools is exposing networks and applications to security vulnerabilities such as privacy intrusion of individual users and security threats to corporations. 2020 already saw a 37 percent increase in cyberattacks (first half of 2020 over H2 of 2019). Heightened cyber threats coupled with higher user awareness for security is going to increase the focus on cybersecurity. Additionally, with more ubiquitous and pervasive connectivity, the need for cybersecurity will expand from enterprises to individuals.
Populous countries like India have the highest numbers of internet users. It is not a surprise that the US, China, and India are the top three countries with instances of phishing and malware attacks. Cybersecurity issues are not only limited to stealing data or money frauds but also national security. Given its sheer importance, the Government of India is planning to bring a new cybersecurity policy to protect information infrastructure, build capability to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
2. Use of drones and robotics: While drones and robots were already in use in some specific cases like surveillance, videography, etc., the pandemic has accelerated their usage in other aspects of human lives. The pandemic made the world realise the dependence on human interactions, especially in labour and consumer-focused businesses such as retail, restaurants, and manufacturing. Many delivery companies and restaurants in the US and China launched contactless delivery services where goods are picked up and dropped off at a designated location instead of from or into the hands of a person.
