The Year 2030 is just 5 years away. But could the new decade usher in a wave of potential new technologies? We look at some technologies that could be making headlines (if newspapers still exist) in 2030. Might we see robotics take center stage? Will quantum computing be mainstream? Here we outline some idea for what the future could bring.
- Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage
- Quantum Computing Becomes Mainstream
- Extended Reality Changes Entertainment
- Electric Vehicles Dominate Roadways Worldwide
- Space Tourism And Colonization Advances
- Biotechnology Revolutionizes the Healthcare Industry
- 5G Networks Give Way To 6G Connectivity
- Cybersecurity Threats Increase Exponentially
- Autonomous Drones Transform Logistics Sector
- Virtual Assistants Replace Human Workers
- Climate Change Mitigation Efforts Intensify
- Nanotechnology Improves Energy Storage
Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been rapidly advancing in recent years. There have been significant breakthroughs in areas like natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning. According to a report by the McKinsey Global Institute, AI could potentially add $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This is equivalent to about 1.2% of the global GDP growth per year (Manyika et al., 2017). This growth will be driven by increased productivity and efficiency in various industries such as healthcare, finance, and transportation.
One of the key areas where AI is expected to have a significant impact is in the field of healthcare. AI-powered algorithms can analyze large amounts of medical data, including images and patient records, to help doctors diagnose diseases more accurately and quickly (Rajpurkar et al., 2020). For instance, Google’s AI-powered LYNA (Lymph Node Assistant) can detect breast cancer from lymph node biopsies with a high degree of accuracy, outperforming human pathologists in some cases (Bejnordi et al., 2017).
Another area where AI is expected to have a significant impact is in the field of transportation. Self-driving cars and trucks use AI algorithms. They are being tested on roads around the world. These vehicles are expected to revolutionize the way we travel (Koopman & Wagner, 2017). According to a report by the International Transport Forum, self-driving vehicles could reduce road accidents by up to 90% and improve traffic flow by up to 30% (International Transport Forum, 2018).
AI is also expected to have a significant impact on the field of education. AI-powered adaptive learning systems can tailor educational content to individual students’ needs, abilities, and learning styles, leading to improved learning outcomes (Ritter et al., 2017). For instance, the AI-powered DreamBox Learning platform has been shown to improve math scores for elementary school students by up to 20% (Wouters et al., 2013).
However, despite these potential benefits, there are also concerns about the impact of AI on jobs and employment. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, up to 75 million jobs could be displaced by automation and AI by 2022, while 133 million new roles may emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms (World Economic Forum, 2018).
The development and deployment of AI systems also raise important ethical concerns. For instance, there is a risk that AI systems could perpetuate existing biases and discrimination if they are trained on biased data sets (Barocas et al., 2019). Therefore, it is essential to develop and deploy AI systems in ways that prioritize transparency, accountability, and fairness.
Quantum Computing Becomes Mainstream
The field of quantum computing has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, with major tech companies like Google, IBM, and Microsoft investing heavily in the development of quantum processors. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global quantum computing market is expected to grow from USD 93 million in 2020 to USD 1,765 million by 2025, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 56.6% during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the increasing adoption of quantum computing in various industries such as healthcare, finance, and logistics.
One of the key drivers of this growth is the development of more powerful and stable quantum processors. For instance, Google’s 53-qubit Sycamore processor has demonstrated a significant improvement in quantum supremacy. It performs complex calculations beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Similarly, IBM’s 53-qubit quantum computer has also shown impressive results, with the company claiming that it can perform certain tasks up to 100 times faster than classical systems. Google showed its new Willow Chip in 2024 further pushing the idea of quantum advantage.
The increasing adoption of quantum computing is also driven by developing more user-friendly software tools and programming languages. For example, Microsoft’s Q# language allows developers to write quantum algorithms without requiring extensive knowledge of quantum mechanics. Similarly, IBM’s Quantum Experience platform provides a cloud-based interface for users to run quantum experiments and simulations.
Another area where quantum computing is making significant inroads is in the field of cryptography. Quantum computers have the potential to break certain types of classical encryption algorithms. They also offer new possibilities for secure communication. For instance, quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols use the principles of quantum mechanics to create unbreakable encryption keys.
Quantum computing is becoming more mainstream. It is expected to significantly impact various industries. It will also affect fields of research. According to a report by McKinsey, quantum computing could lead to breakthroughs in areas such as materials science, chemistry, and pharmaceuticals, with potential applications in the development of new materials, drugs, and energy sources.
The increasing adoption of quantum computing is expected to create new job opportunities. It will also require significant investment in education and training. According to a report by Gartner, the demand for quantum computing skills is expected to increase significantly over the next few years. Companies are looking for professionals with expertise in areas such as quantum programming, algorithm development, and quantum information science.
Extended Reality Changes Entertainment
Extended Reality (XR) is profoundly transforming the entertainment industry, with significant implications for the future of storytelling, gaming, and social interactions. According to a report by PwC, XR technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) are expected to reach a market size of $67 billion by 2025, up from just $1.8 billion in 2018 (PwC, 2020). This growth is driven by advancements in hardware and software, as well as increasing adoption across various industries.
One key area where XR is making a significant impact is in the gaming industry. Games such as Pokémon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite have already demonstrated the potential of AR to create immersive experiences that blur the lines between the physical and digital worlds (Niantic, 2016; Warner Bros., 2019). Moreover, VR games like Beat Saber and Job Simulator have shown how XR can be used to create engaging and interactive experiences that are not possible in traditional gaming formats (Hyperbolic Magnetism, 2018; Owlchemy Labs, 2016).
XR is also changing the way we consume entertainment content. For instance, companies like Netflix and Hulu are experimenting with interactive storytelling formats that allow viewers to influence the narrative of a show or movie (Netflix, 2020; Hulu, 2020). This shift towards more immersive and interactive experiences is expected to continue in the coming years, with XR technologies playing a key role in shaping the future of entertainment.
Another area where XR is having a significant impact is in social interactions. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are incorporating AR features that allow users to interact with each other in new and innovative ways (Facebook, 2020; Instagram, 2020). For example, AR effects can be used to create virtual masks or filters that can be shared with friends and followers.
As XR technologies continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications across various industries. According to a report by Accenture, 71% of executives believe that XR will have a significant impact on their business within the next three years (Accenture, 2020). This growth is expected to be driven by advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision.
The future of entertainment is likely to be shaped by XR technologies, with new formats and experiences emerging that are not possible today. As we look ahead to 2030, it’s clear that XR will play a key role in shaping the future of entertainment, social interactions, and beyond.
Electric Vehicles Dominate Roadways Worldwide
Electric vehicles are expected to dominate roadways worldwide by 2030, with many countries investing heavily in EV infrastructure and incentivizing their adoption. According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), there were over 2 million electric cars on the road globally in 2020, with China accounting for more than half of these vehicles. The IEA predicts that this number will increase to 140 million by 2030, driven by declining battery costs and government policies supporting EV adoption.
The growth of the EV market is also being driven by technological advancements, particularly in the development of lithium-ion batteries. Improvements in battery technology have led to increased driving ranges and reduced charging times, making EVs more practical for long-distance travel. For example, a study published in the journal Nature Energy found that advances in battery technology could lead to EVs with driving ranges of over 500 miles by 2030.
Governments around the world are also playing a crucial role in promoting the adoption of EVs through incentives and regulations. In Norway, for instance, EVs are exempt from sales tax and tolls, making them more attractive to consumers. Similarly, in California, the state government has set a goal of having 5 million EVs on the road by 2030, with plans to invest heavily in EV infrastructure.
The shift towards EVs is also being driven by concerns about climate change and air pollution. A study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters found that widespread adoption of EVs could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation by up to 70% by 2050. Additionally, a report by the European Commission found that EVs produce significantly fewer particulate matter emissions than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
As the world moves towards a future dominated by electric vehicles, there are also concerns about the impact on the grid and energy infrastructure. A study published in the journal Applied Energy found that widespread adoption of EVs could lead to increased peak electricity demand, potentially straining the grid during periods of high usage.
The growth of the EV market is expected to have significant implications for the automotive industry, with many manufacturers investing heavily in EV technology. According to a report by BloombergNEF, over 500 different EV models are expected to be available globally by 2025, up from just 155 in 2019.
Space Tourism And Colonization Advances
Space tourism has seen significant advancements in recent years, with several private companies such as Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin leading the charge. These companies have developed suborbital spacecraft capable of taking tourists to the edge of space, providing a brief experience of weightlessness and a glimpse of the Earth’s curvature . For instance, Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo has successfully completed several test flights, reaching altitudes of over 62 miles (100 km) above the Earth’s surface .
In addition to suborbital flights, there are also plans for orbital space tourism. Companies like SpaceX and Boeing are developing spacecraft capable of taking tourists to the International Space Station (ISS) or even on lunar missions . For example, SpaceX has announced plans to send two private citizens on a trip around the Moon in 2024, with the mission expected to last about a week .
Space colonization is also an area that has seen significant progress in recent years. NASA’s Artemis program aims to return humans to the lunar surface by 2024 and establish a sustainable presence on the Moon . The ultimate goal of the program is to use the Moon as a stepping stone for further human exploration of the solar system, with Mars being the next target .
Private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are also working towards establishing a human settlement on Mars. SpaceX’s Starship program aims to develop a reusable spacecraft capable of taking both people and cargo to the Red Planet . The company has announced plans to send its first crewed mission to Mars in the mid-2020s, with the goal of establishing a permanent, self-sustaining city on the planet .
In terms of technology, advances in areas like propulsion systems, life support systems, and radiation protection are crucial for deep space missions. For instance, NASA is currently developing a new heavy-lift rocket called the Space Launch System (SLS), which will be capable of taking humans to Mars and beyond . Private companies like SpaceX are also working on advanced propulsion systems, such as its Raptor engine, which is expected to play a key role in its Starship program .
The development of in-orbit assembly and manufacturing technologies is also crucial for space colonization. Companies like Made In Space are already working on developing the necessary technologies to enable the construction of large spacecraft and habitats in orbit . This will be essential for establishing a sustainable human presence in space, as it will allow for the creation of large, complex structures that can support life for extended periods.
Biotechnology Revolutionizes the Healthcare Industry
Biotechnology integration in the healthcare industry has led to significant advancements in disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. One notable example is the development of genetic testing, which enables healthcare professionals to identify specific genetic mutations associated with inherited disorders (Khoury et al., 2000). This information can be used to develop targeted therapies, improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
Biotechnology has also revolutionized the field of regenerative medicine, enabling the development of novel therapies for tissue repair and replacement. For instance, researchers have successfully used stem cells to regenerate damaged heart tissue in patients with myocardial infarction (Orlic et al., 2001). This approach holds promise for the treatment of various degenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and diabetes.
The application of biotechnology in vaccine development has also led to significant breakthroughs. The use of recombinant DNA technology has enabled the production of vaccines that are safer, more effective, and easier to manufacture (Plotkin et al., 2017). This approach has been instrumental in the development of vaccines against infectious diseases such as HPV and Hepatitis B.
Biotechnology has also improved our understanding of the human microbiome, enabling the development of novel therapies for various diseases. For example, researchers have identified specific gut bacteria that are associated with obesity and metabolic disorders (Turnbaugh et al., 2006). This knowledge can be used to develop targeted probiotics and prebiotics, which may help restore balance to the gut microbiome.
The integration of biotechnology in healthcare has also led to significant advancements in personalized medicine. The use of genetic testing and biomarkers enables healthcare professionals to tailor treatment strategies to individual patients (Hamburg & Collins, 2010). This approach holds promise for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Biotechnology has also improved our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying various diseases, enabling the development of novel therapeutic targets. For example, researchers have identified specific molecular pathways that are involved in the progression of cancer (Hanahan & Weinberg, 2000). This knowledge can be used to develop targeted therapies, improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects.
5G Networks Give Way To 6G Connectivity
The development of 6G connectivity is expected to begin in the mid-2020s, with researchers already exploring new technologies that could potentially replace 5G networks. One area of focus is on the use of terahertz frequencies, which have the potential to offer significantly faster data transfer rates than the millimeter wave frequencies used in 5G networks . Researchers at the University of Oulu in Finland are leading a project called “6Genesis,” which aims to develop new technologies for 6G networks, including the use of terahertz frequencies and artificial intelligence .
The development of 6G connectivity is expected to be driven by the need for even faster data transfer rates than those offered by 5G networks. As more devices become connected to the internet, there will be an increasing demand for high-speed data transfer, which could potentially overwhelm existing network infrastructure . Researchers are exploring new technologies that could help to meet this demand, including the use of quantum computing and advanced antenna systems .
One potential application of 6G connectivity is in the development of “holographic communications,” which would allow users to communicate with each other using three-dimensional holograms . This technology is still in its infancy, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way that people communicate with each other. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are already exploring the use of 6G networks for holographic communications, and have demonstrated a prototype system that can transmit high-definition holograms over long distances .
The development of 6G connectivity is also expected to be driven by the need for more secure network infrastructure. As more devices become connected to the internet, there will be an increasing risk of cyber attacks, which could potentially compromise sensitive information . Researchers are exploring new technologies that could help to improve the security of 6G networks, including the use of quantum cryptography and advanced encryption techniques .
The widespread adoption of 6G connectivity is expected to have a significant impact on society, particularly in terms of the way that people communicate with each other. As holographic communications become more widespread, it could potentially revolutionize the way that people interact with each other, allowing for more immersive and interactive experiences . However, there are also potential risks associated with the development of 6G connectivity, including the risk of increased exposure to radiofrequency radiation .
Cybersecurity Threats Increase Exponentially
Cybersecurity threats are increasing exponentially, with the number of cyberattacks growing by 50% in 2020 compared to the previous year . This trend is expected to continue, with experts predicting that the global cost of cybercrime will reach $10.5 trillion by 2025 . The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) has created new vulnerabilities for hackers to exploit, making it easier for them to launch sophisticated attacks.
The increasing use of cloud computing and big data analytics has also led to a growing number of cybersecurity threats. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, the global cloud security market is expected to grow from $1.5 billion in 2020 to $12.6 billion by 2023 . This growth is driven by the need for organizations to protect their data and applications from cyber threats. However, the use of cloud computing also creates new risks, such as data breaches and unauthorized access.
The use of AI and machine learning algorithms has also created new cybersecurity threats. According to a report by MIT Technology Review, AI-powered malware can evade detection by traditional security systems . This type of malware uses machine learning algorithms to adapt to different environments and avoid detection. The use of AI-powered malware is expected to increase in the coming years, making it more challenging for organizations to protect themselves from cyber threats.
The increasing number of cybersecurity threats has also led to a growing shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, the global shortage of cybersecurity professionals is expected to reach 3.5 million by 2025 . This shortage makes it difficult for organizations to find qualified personnel to protect their networks and systems from cyber threats.
The rise of quantum computing also poses new cybersecurity threats. According to a report by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, quantum computers can break certain types of encryption algorithms . This means that organizations will need to develop new encryption methods to protect their data from cyber threats.
The increasing number of cybersecurity threats has led to a growing need for organizations to invest in cybersecurity measures. According to a report by Gartner, the global cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $120 billion in 2020 to $300 billion by 2024 . This growth is driven by the need for organizations to protect themselves from cyber threats and maintain customer trust.
Autonomous Drones Transform Logistics Sector
Autonomous drones are transforming the logistics sector by increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer experience. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, autonomous drones can reduce delivery time by up to 50% and increase delivery frequency by up to 30%. This is because drones can navigate through congested areas and avoid traffic, making them ideal for last-mile deliveries.
Autonomous drones are also being used in warehouses to improve inventory management and order fulfillment. A study published in the Journal of Manufacturing Systems found that autonomous drones can reduce inventory counting time by up to 90% and increase accuracy by up to 99%. This is because drones can quickly scan barcodes and RFID tags, reducing the need for manual labor.
The use of autonomous drones in logistics also has environmental benefits. A report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) found that drones can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional delivery methods. This is because drones are electric-powered and produce zero emissions during operation.
Autonomous drones are also being used in rural areas where traditional delivery methods may not be feasible. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, autonomous drones can increase access to healthcare and other essential services in remote areas by up to 50%. This is because drones can navigate through challenging terrain and reach areas that are difficult to access.
The integration of autonomous drones into logistics operations also requires significant investment in infrastructure and technology. A study published in the Journal of Supply Chain Management found that companies need to invest in drone maintenance, repair, and replacement, as well as develop new business models and strategies to support drone-based delivery.
Autonomous drones are expected to play a major role in shaping the future of logistics. According to a report by Gartner, autonomous drones will be used in up to 50% of all deliveries by 2025. This is because drones offer a range of benefits, including increased efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced customer experience.
Virtual Assistants Replace Human Workers
Virtual assistants are increasingly being used to replace human workers in various industries, including customer service, bookkeeping, and data entry. According to a report by the McKinsey Global Institute, up to 800 million jobs could be lost worldwide due to automation by 2030 (Manyika et al., 2017). This trend is driven by advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing, which enable virtual assistants to perform tasks that were previously done by humans.
Virtual assistants are being used to automate routine and repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on more complex and creative tasks. For example, chatbots are being used to provide customer support and answer frequently asked questions, while virtual bookkeeping assistants are being used to manage finances and invoices (Brynjolfsson & McAfee, 2014). However, the use of virtual assistants also raises concerns about job displacement and the need for workers to develop new skills to remain employable.
The use of virtual assistants is not limited to specific industries, but is a broader trend that is transforming the nature of work. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, 75 million jobs may be displaced by automation by 2022, while 133 million new roles may emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms (WEF, 2018). This highlights the need for workers to develop skills that are complementary to those of virtual assistants, such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
The impact of virtual assistants on employment is a topic of ongoing debate among experts. Some argue that automation will lead to significant job displacement, while others argue that it will create new opportunities for workers (Ford, 2015). However, most experts agree that the use of virtual assistants will require significant changes in the way we work and the skills we need to develop.
The development of virtual assistants is also driving innovation in areas such as natural language processing, machine learning, and human-computer interaction. According to a report by the Stanford Natural Language Processing Group, the use of deep learning techniques has led to significant advances in natural language understanding and generation (Manning, 2016). This highlights the potential for virtual assistants to become increasingly sophisticated and capable of performing complex tasks.
The increasing use of virtual assistants is also raising concerns about data privacy and security. According to a report by the Ponemon Institute, 62% of organizations that use chatbots or virtual assistants have experienced a data breach (Ponemon, 2019). This highlights the need for organizations to prioritize data protection and implement robust security measures when using virtual assistants.
Climate Change Mitigation Efforts Intensify
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies have emerged as crucial components in the global effort to mitigate climate change, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimating that CCS could account for around 14% of cumulative emissions reductions by 2060. The development of large-scale CCS projects has gained momentum worldwide, with over 30 commercial-scale facilities currently operational or under construction globally. For instance, the Petra Nova project in Texas, USA, is one of the largest post-combustion capture facilities in the world, capable of capturing approximately 1.6 million tons of CO2 annually.
The integration of renewable energy sources into the global energy mix has also accelerated, driven by declining costs and technological advancements. Solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power have emerged as leading sources of new power generation capacity globally, with solar PV accounting for over a third of total additions in 2020. The European Union’s (EU) renewable energy directive aims to increase the share of renewables in the EU’s energy mix to at least 32% by 2030, while countries like Costa Rica and Norway have set ambitious targets to transition to 100% renewable electricity.
Electrification of transportation has also gained significant traction as a key strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the sector. Electric vehicle (EV) sales have surged globally, with over 2 million units sold in 2020 alone, representing a growth rate of over 10% compared to the previous year. Governments worldwide have implemented policies to incentivize EV adoption, including tax credits, subsidies, and investments in charging infrastructure.
Sustainable land use practices have also become increasingly important for climate change mitigation efforts. The United Nations’ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) program aims to conserve forests and promote sustainable forest management, with over 60 countries participating in the initiative. Additionally, agroforestry practices that integrate trees into agricultural landscapes have been shown to sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide while also improving soil health and biodiversity.
Climate-resilient infrastructure development has become a critical component of climate change adaptation efforts worldwide. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) estimates that Asia alone will require over $1.7 trillion in climate-resilient infrastructure investments by 2030 to address the impacts of climate-related disasters. Governments and international organizations have launched initiatives to support the development of climate-resilient infrastructure, including the Climate Resilience Infrastructure Fund.
Nanotechnology Improves Energy Storage
Nanotechnology has been instrumental in improving energy storage by enhancing the performance of batteries, supercapacitors, and other energy storage devices. One key area where nanotechnology has made a significant impact is in the development of nanostructured electrodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Research has shown that the use of nanostructured electrodes can increase the surface area of the electrode, allowing for faster charging and discharging rates . Additionally, nanostructured electrodes have been found to improve the cycle life of LIBs, making them more durable and long-lasting.
The use of nanomaterials in energy storage devices has also led to improvements in supercapacitors. Supercapacitors are devices that store electrical energy through electrostatic double-layer capacitance and electrochemical pseudocapacitance . The incorporation of nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, and metal oxides into supercapacitor electrodes has been found to increase their specific capacitance, power density, and cycle life. This is due to the high surface area-to-mass ratio of these materials, which allows for more efficient charge storage.
Another area where nanotechnology has improved energy storage is in the development of solid-state batteries (SSBs). SSBs replace the liquid electrolyte found in traditional LIBs with a solid material, such as a ceramic or glass electrolyte. This design change improves safety and energy density while reducing the risk of thermal runaway . Nanomaterials have been used to create nanostructured electrodes for SSBs, which has improved their performance by increasing the surface area and allowing for faster ion transport.
The use of nanotechnology in energy storage devices has also led to improvements in fuel cells. Fuel cells are devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy through electrochemical reactions . Incorporating nanomaterials such as platinum nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and metal oxides into fuel cell electrodes has increased their specific power density, efficiency, and durability.
In addition to these advancements, researchers have also explored the use of nanotechnology in other energy storage devices, such as sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) and zinc-air batteries. SIBs are a promising alternative to LIBs due to the abundance of sodium and its lower cost . Zinc-air batteries, on the other hand, offer high energy density and low cost but require further development to improve their performance and durability.
