(BPT) - It seems like every day we hear about a new technology that will improve some part of our lives - from AI at work to smart devices at home to cars that remind us to stay in our lanes. As technology advances, many of these innovations are becoming more mainstream and accessible - helping to improve our lives, our work and our connections to each other.
From new satellite technologies to enhancements in video streaming, here are five tech trends to watch.
AI keeps advancing
Artificial intelligence (AI) may sound like something out of science fiction, but you've probably already encountered it. If you've asked your phone a question (and it answered) or chatted with a customer service agent on a website, you have actually used AI. Recently, tools like ChatGPT - an AI engine that anyone with a computer can try - have gained popularity for their remarkable accuracy in answering questions and offering up surprisingly natural information. As AI becomes more ubiquitous, it will change the way we work and interact with each other. Moving forward, look for AI to become more integrated into the software you use at work.
Augmented reality gets real
You've probably heard about the 'metaverse.' Although it sounds like a cartoon universe, the metaverse is real in that it's a digital world where people communicate using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Some predict the metaverse will evolve to become the next iteration of the internet. While the metaverse is likely years away from showing up in every living room, some of its features, like AR and VR, are growing more common for entertainment, education and training. For example, National 4-H, America's largest youth development organization, is using augmented reality to help make complex topics like satellite technology more fun and engaging, as in this activity answering the question, 'How Does Satellite Internet Work?' presented by HughesNet.
Streaming services go mainstream
People everywhere have become dependent on streaming video services - whether subscription-based or free. In fact, up to 80% of all internet traffic is video! While this appetite shows no sign of slowing in 2023, market dynamics could change how streaming services serve up video content to consumers. With some introducing advertising into their content and others restricting password sharing, consumers should be on the lookout for changes to their subscription services. In 2023, many viewers will likely return to traditional services like cable TV.
Rural America gets more options for high-speed internet
For decades, rural America has relied on a host of options to get connected to the internet, including DSL, fixed wireless and satellite internet. Thanks to new innovations, these services are getting better - and one is poised to change how communities beyond the reach of fiber access high-speed internet. New multipath technologies like HughesNet Fusion Plans combine satellite and wireless technologies to deliver a high-speed, reliable internet experience with reduced latency. The plans use the best connection for online activities at any given time to deliver a fast and more responsive internet experience. Equipped with more data than ever, expect multipath offerings like HughesNet Fusion Plans to grow in popularity in 2023.
Consumers get serious about cybersecurity
Nowadays, almost every aspect of our lives can be found online. From banking, to shopping, social media and work, our online footprints are larger than ever. Not surprisingly, so is the threat of cybercrime. Everyone must beware of Internet fraud, identity theft and tactics like 'phishing' - where cybercriminals send emails designed to trick us into sharing personal or financial information. But with the help of new tools and technologies, such as password managers and multi-factor authentication, we can better protect ourselves from bad actors online.
From AI to AR, new technologies are improving our lives in ways we never could have imagined. Just as technology evolves, so will the ways we work and interact and collaborate with each other.
