If there’s one thing we’ve learned from 2023, it’s that digital technologies are changing our lives more rapidly than ever. Based on the first events and announcements, we can already tell that 2024 promises many exciting opportunities in digital innovation and transformation. From AI, custom platforms and clean tech, to AR and data-driven insights, take a look at the 5 trends that we think are worth your attention this year!
Artificial intelligence
I know we’re kicking in an open door, but if you think we’re at the peak of AI in innovation, think again. Where last year companies were experimenting with generative AI, and machine learning in general, these experiments will reach maturity in 2024 and the first outcomes and successes will only spark further innovation. AI will become more and more integrated into our daily private and working lives.
The technology will further prove its opportunities to increase productivity, boost customer experiences and improve decision-making based on facts and insights. Think copilots, autonomous vehicles, facial recognition, AR, disease detection, threat prevention, the list goes on. Effectively incorporating AI into the digital transformation journey to create true added value will prepare businesses for the future.
Clean technologies
As everyone continues to admire the opportunities with (generative) AI and machine learning, it’s very easy to forget about the massive impact these technologies have on our environment. Take ChatGPT for example. Current (conservative) calculations estimate that the tool generates about 43.000kg of CO2 per day. That’s the equivalent of the carbon footprint of 80 people. Per day, and that’s just to keep it running.
This issue will only grow as more and more applications are being released, more and more data is collected, which then again will be used to train more and larger (and smarter) models. Will 2024 be the year we also focus on making them more clean and energy efficient?
- Learn how to design energy-efficient deep-learning algorithms
- Watch our webinar on the future of energy-efficient AI systems
Independent platform development
If we can believe current predictions, BigTech will only continue to grow in the coming years. So why then do we believe independent solutions are also on the rise? Relying on ready-made solutions from tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, Google, Intel and NVIDIA means a lack of personalization and competitive features. And those happen to be two of the most pressing issues of digital solutions, your differentiation toward competitors.
They are following the example of companies like Tesla, take back ownership and developing platforms and components custom to your company’s needs. This allows them flexibility and out-of-the-box offerings. It reflects a desire for autonomy in technology development, aligning solutions precisely with organizational needs and market demands, while maintaining control over costs, data, and strategic direction.
- Discover how Tesla redefined the driving experience
- Learn how Cowboy redefined the e-bikes with a software-first approach
Data-driven innovation
It’s clear that data will continue to be at the heart of digital transformation in 2024. The rise of smart and connected products and services, not only enables companies to provide better and instant experiences for the end user, it could also give them a lot of data. Using that data strategically will help you set up the right systems from the start to collect not just any data, but valuable data.
Leveraging these large and complex datasets with advanced AI then allows you to extract crucial insights to put you at the forefront of innovation. Going beyond efficiency gains, these strategic insights can help you in the decision-making process as well as create new added value. The first step in every process is awareness, then you can dig deeper into those insights to get to the root of it.
- Find out how to accelerate digital innovation with data
- Discover how Cochlear collects and uses user data
AR/VR/MR
A question that comes back every year, is if AR, MR and VR will make their big comeback. And year after year, we come to the realization it did’t really take off. Nevertheless, these systems did continue advancing and especially the surge of AI could make them more accessible and attractive to businesses and consumers.
So could this mean that AR, MR and VR will get a strong foolhold in not just in the gaming industry, but also in retail, maintenance, healthcare, learning and navigation?
We for sure believe there are many opportunities for grabs, like virtual try-ons, home previews, remote assistance, patient follow-ups, online and virtual training, safety measures (virtually) and so much more.
- Discover Reynaers’ dashboard update with VR product visualizer
- Introducing REISS, marking new era in minimally-invasive spine surgery
And what about…
Web3.0, blockchain, NFTs, the metaverse, quantum computing, AGI, drones, robots, traveling to Mars, creating brain interfaces, self-driving cars, room temperature superconductors, hyperloops, nuclear fusion, streaming games, super fast internet from space, self-healing materials, autonomous vessels, TikTok’s world domination, X, … we’re all following that up for you. Stay tuned!
2024 is already showing it’ll be a pivotal year for digital innovation, where strategic decisions will shape the future of businesses. Time to embrace these trends and stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape!
Ready to chart your course in the digital revolution? Get in touch to start your journey to digital excellence!