15
Jan
2020

With the start of a new year and new decade, we looked at some of the predictions in the tech industry for 2020 and beyond.

5G

There was significant hype surrounding the fifth generation of wireless in 2019, and it has been described as the greatest wave of innovation since the creation of the internet. In 2020, 5G is predicted to become more widely used and bring with it the advancement in cloud computing (in the form of edge computing), the mainstream use of IoT devices in smart cities and autonomous vehicles, and 10 times higher internet speeds compared to 4G.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Many AI-powered systems require huge amounts of data to operate, making it near impossible to get by on 4G. However, once 5G becomes more widely distributed this year, AI technology will become more prevalent in everyday life applications.

Artificial Intelligence roles are among Ireland’s fastest growing jobs for 2020, according to data from LinkedIn. Senior Economist at LinkedIn, Mariano Mamertino is of no surprise that artificial intelligence roles are exploding in popularity in Ireland. He stated, “As technology continues to advance at a pace, Artificial Intelligence Specialists will become even more crucial across multiple roles and sectors.”

Edge Computing

Faster internet connection through the increase of 5G means edge computing can grow in 2020. Edge computing allows data to be processed at the device itself rather than transferred to the cloud. This has the advantage of reducing latency and lowering data transfer costs for businesses because it is being stored closer to the location where it is being generated and used. Therefore, edge computing is helpful when you need real-time access to data for processing.

Automation

Automation, specifically Robotic Process Automation (RPA), is growing in popularity and will continue to do so throughout 2020. Rather than replacing people with robots, RPA is more concerned with taking repetitive tasks from human workers and giving them to a machine instead.

By automating daily operating systems, this will free up employee’s time so that they can focus on more important tasks such as interacting with customers.  

Remote work

Over the last few years, the lines between work and home life have become blurred. A recent study has found that 70% of the global workforce work remotely at least once a week. This has been made possible through the evolution of technology, including hi-speed internet, cloud computing, task delegation software and project management tools.

These figures are only set to get higher throughout 2020, with more companies using remote working options to attract new employees.

Written by Michelle Young