Smartphones that can be used as credit cards, virtual medical check-ups and remote home monitoring using a personal device are some of the exciting technologies expected to take off in 2013. Telstra has outlined the top ten tech trends that are expected to gather a foothold in consumer, business and enterprise markets in the coming 12 months.
1. Big news of the year: the mobile wallet takes off
It’s been promised for a long time, but by next year many devices on the market will incorporate near field communication (NFC) which allows radio communication to be established by touching the devices together or bringing them into close proximity. This will allow customers to take advantage of some retailers’ plans to roll out contactless terminals which will turn mobile phones with NFC capability into virtual credit cards. NFC has been a slow burn but it will likely become entrenched next year and we plan to be a big part of that.
2. Old news of the year: Cloud computing continues to accelerate
While momentum has been building for some time, 2012 was the year when many users embraced the cloud and began thinking about how to best use the service. The explosive growth of consumer devices, such as tablet PCs and smartphones, along with platforms such as Microsoft Windows 8, will probably drive even more users to embrace the cloud.
Next year it is likely the adoption of cloud computing will accelerate and continue accelerating for the next decade.
3. Hype of the year: Big data
While the term ‘Big Data’ is relatively new, the technology and processes associated with it have existed for many years. The volume and types of data generated over the last few years have grown exponentially as technology evolves.
Big Data opens the door to a new approach to engaging customers and making decisions based on insights gained from data analytics. For example, building personalized marketing profiles based on individuals’ digital footprints will allow companies to better construct and target offers to customers.
Big Data capabilities are now easily accessible, but people with the deep analytical skills required to drive value from Big Data are in short supply. Companies that master Big Data over the next few years will have a distinct commercial advantage.