The advance of technology is always a defining hallmark of a decade and, three years into the new ‘roaring twenties’, it seems this era will be defined by the progress of smart technology, automation and the future of the web.

After much time spent looking through prediction posts, I’ve summarised five of the most prominent predictions for what we can expect in tech in 2023.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) uses multiple software and applications to turn the most repetitive tasks, such as data collection and customer service, into easily managed automated processes. RPA follows the growing trend for partial automation within different roles.

It is estimated by global management consultancy, McKinsey, that around 60% of jobs currently feature some form of automation, but less than 5% are actually fully automated. RPA will continue to have a significant impact on these numbers over the next 12 months.

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Web 3.0

Web 3.0, or the ‘decentralised internet’, will continue to generate noise, offering financial opportunities for a wide range of businesses and entrepreneurs. So what are the reasons it continues to cause such hype? It’s down to the sheer range of technology it can unleash, from blockchain to AI and immersive 3D experiences.

The key to exploring the full potential of Web 3.0 is to spend time thinking about its advantages for businesses and consumers alike, from control over data ownership to freedom of interactions, and enhanced security. It continues to be a game changer for companies looking to take a truly innovative approach to the future of their business and lead the way in their respective industries.

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Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses a mass of technology but can be summarised by two key characteristics: automation, direct communication between separate devices, and connectivity, enhanced connections within one network worldwide.

IoT continues to help businesses streamline their technology efforts, from improved staff productivity and reduced human labour to efficient, cost-effective operation management, improved employee safety and more.

Of course, IoT could be more flawless. Insufficient security measures and power/network dependence have been cited as two of the most significant current drawbacks, but with the technology continuing to evolve, we are sure to see more notable projects across industries with IoT at their heart.

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Quantum Computing

Quantum computing, or the use of quantum-mechanical phenomena, such as superposition and entanglement, to perform operations on data, is a significant step forward from traditional computing systems, which use binary digits (bits) to represent information. Quantum computers can exist in multiple states simultaneously, allowing them to perform specific calculations much faster than traditional computers.

While the tech world is still holding its collective breath for the first genuinely large-scale quantum computer, efforts such as Osprey from IBM and Sycamore from Google are providing glimpses of the power of what could be. 2023 will undoubtedly see the race to build continue while forward-thinking companies are already planning future uses.

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Sustainable Tech

Far from a fringe term, sustainability is now front and centre for every industry, and tech providers are rushing to uncover the opportunities to provide and implement solutions that are beneficial to both industry and the environment.

Companies such as EcoPing are leading the way in reducing website carbon emissions, while apps such as Treeapp are bringing together consumers and advertisers with gamification elements, to fund ecological projects worldwide. This is a trend we will undoubtedly see more of as the year continues.

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