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TECHNOLOGY is advancing so quickly that it’s hard for regular folk to keep up with the latest innovations.
The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a big talking point for 2023 as software like ChatGPT hit headlines across the world.
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Whether it was having human-like conversations or getting help writing essays and emails, it made life easier for many.
Meanwhile, wireless televisions and motion-controlled watches also made waves as the future closed in on the present.
But the next big question is what sort of tech progress people can expect in 2024.
But the next big question is what sort of tech progress people can expect in 2024?
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We spoke to futurologist Tom Cheesewright and tech expert Kevin MacLean, who is Curriculum Quality Leader at Glasgow Clyde College, who offered their predictions.
More GPT
GPT is a variety of AI models designed to generate human-like text in response to a prompt.
And while it boomed in 2023 it’ll be back with a bang for the year to come.
Tom says: “The AI craze isn’t slowing down any time soon and in the next year we’ll find more and more AI capabilities incorporated into our favourite apps and entertainment.
“A personal AI in your smart TV to suggest what to watch, for example.”
Drones
Essentially vehicles without passengers, drones can be controlled remotely and autonomously.
It’s a tech advancement that’s been threatening to take hold for a number of years, and 2024 could be the time.
Tom says: “There are plenty of signs that the much-anticipated flying drone delivery services might be expanding rapidly in 2024.
“Takeaways to the door while they’re still hot? Rapid loo roll delivery when you’re caught short? Perhaps.”
Kitchen Robots
Getting help in the kitchen is one of the areas that tech can really prove itself useful.
And cooking could get easier thanks to robots specifically designed to perform culinary tasks usually reserved for humans.
Tom says: “We’re seeing more and more robot chefs and services, flipping burgers or pouring cocktails.
“Even if they’re not out front, you might find your next meal has been cooked by a machine.”
Generative AI
This form of AI refers to models or algorithms that create brand-new output, such as photos, videos, code and 3D renderings.
Again, 2023 saw this starting to kick off but it could develop as the year goes on.
Kevin says: “I think we’ll be using Generative AI more next year – a type of artificial intelligence technology that can produce all types of content.
“Generative AI can give us much more in-depth answers to our questions or problems.”
Green Tech
Also known as environmental technology, its aim is to mitigate the impact of human activity on the planet.
This is clearly going to become more and more important as our country tries to head towards net zero.
Kevin says: “I think Green Tech will explode in 2024. I could see techniques like vertical farming becoming a real focus.
“Using science, vertical farming allows us to grow crops stacked on top of one another without using soil.”
Quantum computing
This uses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems that are too complex for classical computers.
Academics can use this to support some of the new tech that’s emerging.
Kevin says: “Although quantum computing already exists, I expect it’ll become more widely used to support the advances we’re seeing in tech.
“It uses computer science, maths and physics to solve really complex problems.”
Robotic Process Automation
A software technology, it’s thought it could save businesses a lot of money in the future if used correctly.
And it could cut the everyday Scots’ time at monotonous and time-consuming duties.
Kevin says: “Known as RPA, Robotic Process Automation mimics tasks carried out by humans – particularly in office environments.
“Jobs like filling in forms, moving files and inputting data can be carried out quickly and efficiently.
The Internet of Things
This represents interconnection via the internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects.
That could be anything from lighting systems in the home to security cameras for big businesses.
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Kevin says: “The internet of things (IOT) are devices with sensors, processing abilities and softwares that connect and exchange data with other systems of the internet.
“We’re already using it now – for example with ‘smart homes’, but I think we’ll see a real growth in the number of devices and systems that are interconnected – including within transport, healthcare and retail.”
