In this article, we will look at the 10 emerging technologies of 2024, as identified by the World Economic Forum, and explore how these groundbreaking advancements can be leveraged for maximum impact.

image credit: ZHENYU LUO

Methodology

Technologies were selected from a survey based on 300 nominations across 29 countries, according to the below criteria:

Power: The technology could critically transform industries and established behaviors

Applicability: The technology has the potential for widespread use and benefit to economies

Novelty: It is in the early stages of development, but yet to be widely used

Depth: More than one country is developing and investing in the technology

Along with this criteria, technologies were selected based on their potential to make a significant impact on society over the next three to five years.

Why You Should Care

These emerging technologies are poised to redefine industries, transform everyday behaviors, and create unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation. By staying informed about these trends, you can position yourself and your organization at the forefront of technological advancement, ready to capitalize on new opportunities and overcome challenges with innovative solutions.

What You Can Do

To leverage these trends, consider integrating these technologies into your business strategy, investing in relevant research and development, and staying agile to adapt to the rapidly changing tech landscape. By doing so, you can not only improve your current business practices but also pave the way for creating disruptive startups that shape the future.

Emerging Technologies of 2024

TechnologyDescriptionExample
AI for Scientific DiscoveryAdvancing diagnosis and prevention of diseasesAI algorithms are now capable of predicting disease outbreaks and identifying potential treatments faster than traditional methods, speeding up R&D.
Privacy-Enhancing TechnologiesPowers the secure use of large datasetsTechnologies like differential privacy and homomorphic encryption enable companies to analyze customer data for personalization without compromising privacy.
Reconfigurable Intelligent SurfacesIncreases efficiency of next-generation wireless communicationSmart surfaces that can be reconfigured to optimize signal strength and coverage, improving connectivity in densely populated urban areas.
High Altitude Platform StationsBalloon structures providing enhanced connectivity and communicationPlatforms delivering high-speed internet to remote and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide and opening up new markets.
Integrated Sensing and CommunicationMonitoring systems for smart grids, agriculture, and weather conditionsFarmers use integrated sensors to monitor soil health and weather conditions in real-time, optimizing crop yields and reducing waste.
Immersive Technology for the Built WorldImmersive design tools for urban development projectsVR and AR tools allow architects and city planners to visualize and modify urban landscapes before construction, ensuring efficient and sustainable development.
ElastocaloricsInnovative technologies for cooling and heating systemsNew materials that change temperature when stretched or compressed, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems.
Carbon-Capturing MicrobesOrganisms designed to capture CO₂Genetically engineered microbes deployed in industrial settings to capture and convert CO₂ emissions into useful byproducts, helping mitigate climate change.
Alternative Livestock FeedsSustainable feeds made from insects, algae, and single-cell proteinsInsect-based protein as livestock feed reduces the environmental impact of farming and provides a sustainable alternative to traditional feeds.
Genomics for TransplantsEditing the genome for transplantationsCRISPR technology is used to modify the genomes of organ donors, reducing the risk of rejection and improving the success rates of transplants.

By integrating these cutting-edge technologies into your business model, you can drive innovation, increase efficiency, and stay ahead of the competition in 2024 and beyond.

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