It’s circular in nature. Societal needs dictate the technology we develop, and at the same time, emerging technology can also shape our society. When it comes to communication, technology is responsible for how we connect and interact with each other on many levels. It unites families with each other, students with their instructors and businesses with their target audiences. Some of the trends shaping today’s communications have been years in the making, while others are making new waves. But in any case, all provide us with convenient and efficient ways to stay in touch.

Technology Applications That Enhance Our Lives

1. Smart Devices. In the last 10 years, there has been a severe drop in the use of landlines in our personal and professional lives. Today, more business is conducted via cell phones, with much of the workforce conducting business from home. Smart devices aren’t new on the technology scene. Today, 96 percent of Americans own a cell phone and a staggering 81 percent of those owners are smartphone users. Compare that to the only 35 percent of smartphone users back in 2011, and the takeover is clear. We are a smart device nation. With the emergence of the Internet of Things, smart technology is predicted to expand beyond the screens the vast majority of Americans are accustomed to. You’ve likely heard of or own a tablet, smart TV or smartwatch. What about a smart refrigerator, smart doorbell or smart lighting? We’ve seen these types of technology promulgating and expect to see more examples in the years to come.
2. Video Conferencing Software. Even cell service is being pushed aside in favor of more flexible communication software powered by internet connection. Programs with far more versatility like Skype, Zoom, TeamViewer and other similar platforms are paving the way for remote business, educational and personal communications. New options include up to 500 participants in a Zoom or Google Hangouts meeting. It’s no wonder that this is the method of choice for business meetings, conferences and classrooms.
3. Voice-First Tech. Technology like Siri, Echo and Google Home have already entered millions of homes, and voice-first technology continues to grow. This technology helps users search for information, products and locations. It also facilitates simple tasks such as operating lights, thermostats, television and music controls. Hands-free and voice-first technology will continue to grow in the coming years as big companies like Amazon, Samsung, Apple and Google continue to prioritize its development.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Chatbots. Artificial intelligence has been making waves for the last two decades, and its use is growing. AI, designed to think like humans, can give companies an edge when it comes to internal and external communications. For example, chatbots are able to answer frequently asked questions and initiate the buying process 24/7, opening new opportunities for business development and lead generation. In fact, 73 percent of marketing executives see AI or a technology dependent on AI as critical to the future of marketing.
5. Machine Learning. Machine learning uses statistical techniques to give computer systems the ability to “learn” from data and improve without being explicitly programmed. When used in conjunction with existing technology, personalization becomes highly achievable. Machine learning gives us intel about prospects and customers, their buying habits and their challenges so we know exactly what they need and seek.
6. Private Messaging Apps. Similar to the surge in video conferencing software, new messaging apps that rely on WiFi rather than cell service are making waves with younger and older generations alike. With the ability to send large files without sacrificing quality, ease of access on smart devices and photo and video sharing, applications like WhatsApp, Viber and Skype give users the flexibility to communicate without a phone number.
7. Virtual Reality (VR). Largely pioneered by video game companies, we’re seeing virtual reality equipment and software making its way into homes, not to mention VR capabilities on smart devices, technology like Google Glass and use within the medical industry and education. Companies are making advancements to integrate VR into product and service sampling. By giving customers the ability to try before they buy through the use of household VR tech, opportunities for new sales and marketing efforts are huge.
8. Digital Privacy and Protection. The internet provides us with the ability to tap into and access essential information and interact. Our reliance on the digital is growing at an exponential rate as stay-at-home trends become the new normal. Initiatives like CCPA, GDPR and the public’s attention on privacy scandals make it clear that internet users want to protect their information or at least know how it is being used. With this societal prominence, major advancements in technology for cybersecurity, encryption and data protection are at the forefront. Cybersecurity is one of the main technology expenditures for big companies and is gradually becoming more accessible to everyday users.

The Interdependence of Technology and Communication

Since the beginning of time, humans have relied on communication. From cave paintings and smoke signals to telephones and email, the ways we interact with each other continually evolve. Technology has transformed how we conduct business and communicate with one another. In a time when digital communication is more important than ever, it can be both a blessing and a curse. Technology improves productivity and our ability to connect with a wider audience. It also comes with inherent challenges, including the learning curve, continual updates, obsolescence and the expense. The adoption of technology will continue to have a dramatic impact on communication, which is why finding the communication technologies that work for you and your company will be an ongoing process.