Top 10 emerging technologies in 2023

Discover the top 10 emerging technologies of 2023 that are set to revolutionize various aspects of our lives. This compilation, based on insights from 90 experts across 20 countries, highlights innovations like flexible batteries, generative artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable aviation fuel, designer phages, and more. These technologies have the potential to disrupt industries, improve lives, and safeguard the planet, but only if they are designed, scaled, and deployed responsibly. From advancements in healthcare and environmental sustainability to the use of immersive technology for mental health, these emerging technologies offer a glimpse into a future shaped by innovation and progress.

Flexible Batteries

Flexible batteries are becoming increasingly popular in various industries, particularly in the field of wearable medical devices. These batteries are made of lightweight, bendable materials such as lithium-ion or zinc-carbon systems, allowing for flexibility and durability. They are commonly used in devices like sensors, smartwatches, flexible displays, and textile-based electronics.

The market for flexible batteries is expected to expand rapidly due to the growing demand for miniaturization and elasticity in wearable devices. As technology continues to advance, companies are developing and commercializing flexible battery technology to meet these demands. These batteries not only provide a reliable power source for medical devices but also open up new possibilities for innovation in the field of wearables.

Generative Artificial Intelligence

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging technology that has been making headlines in 2023. It is being used in various applications such as text generation, code writing, image creation, and sound synthesis. However, its potential goes beyond these areas and can be expanded to fields like drug design, architecture, and engineering.

Generative AI works by learning data patterns and using complex algorithms inspired by the human brain to create new and original content. It has the ability to challenge conventional thinking and boost creativity. However, it also comes with potential ethical challenges, such as mitigating bias and ensuring copyright and data privacy issues are addressed.

As generative AI continues to advance, it has the potential to revolutionize various industries and transform the way we create and consume content. It will play a crucial role in shaping the future of education, workplace productivity, and artistic expression.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

The aviation industry has set a goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. To meet this target, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is being explored as an alternative to traditional jet fuel. SAF can be produced from both biological and non-biological resources, reducing the industry’s reliance on fossil fuels.

Currently, sustainable aviation fuel accounts for less than 1% of global jet fuel demand. However, as new blending options are developed, this number is expected to increase. The American Society of Testing and Materials has already approved nine fuel varieties for blending with conventional jet fuel.

SAF can be produced from captured CO2 and green hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources. This process helps reduce carbon emissions and mitigates the environmental impact of the aviation industry. As the demand for sustainable aviation fuel grows, research and investment will play a crucial role in developing new technologies and scaling up production.

Designer Phages

Designer phages are viruses that have been engineered to selectively attack specific types of bacteria. They offer new opportunities for treating microbiome-associated diseases and improving agricultural productivity. By reprogramming phages using laboratory tools, scientists can target individual bacterial species and induce them to produce therapeutic molecules or become sensitive to specific drugs.

Phages have the potential to revolutionize the treatment of bacterial infections, as they can provide a more targeted and precise approach compared to traditional antibiotics. In addition to medical applications, designer phages can also be used to engineer the human microbiome, which plays a crucial role in human health.

Early research in this field has attracted interest from venture capitalists, and clinical testing is underway to explore the potential of designer phages in improving human, animal, and plant health. As our understanding of phages continues to grow, so does the potential for developing new treatments and interventions.

Metaverse for Mental Health

Excessive screen time and social media use have been linked to negative impacts on psychological health. However, the responsible use of technology, particularly in the form of the Metaverse, has the potential to support mental health and well-being. The Metaverse refers to immersive virtual platforms and gaming environments that provide opportunities for connection, self-expression, and personal growth.

Gaming platforms, combined with non-invasive technologies such as electrode-enabled headsets, are being explored as tools for mental health treatment. These technologies can create virtual environments that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and cognitive stimulation.

However, it is important to practice responsible use of the Metaverse for mental health. This includes setting limits on screen time, promoting healthy social interactions, and ensuring that individuals have access to appropriate support and resources. The potential impact of the Metaverse on psychological health is significant, but it must be approached with care and consideration.

Wearable Plant Sensors

Wearable plant sensors are small devices that can be attached to crops to monitor various environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, moisture, and nutrient levels. These sensors provide real-time data, allowing farmers and agricultural professionals to make informed decisions about crop management.

By monitoring these factors, wearable plant sensors can help optimize yields, reduce waste, detect early signs of disease or nutrient deficiencies, and minimize the environmental impact of agriculture. These sensors enable precision agriculture techniques, which can greatly increase food production and help address the challenge of feeding the growing global population.

As the demand for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices increases, wearable plant sensors will play a crucial role in improving crop productivity and reducing environmental impact. Continued research and development in this field will lead to advancements in sensor technology and data analysis, further enhancing the benefits of wearable plant sensors.

Spatial Omics

Spatial omics is an emerging technology that combines advanced imaging techniques with DNA sequencing to map biological processes at a molecular level. This technology has the potential to aid in therapeutic discovery, tumor characterization, and the study of infectious diseases.

By visualizing cell architecture and natural events at a molecular level, spatial omics can provide valuable insights into biological processes and diseases. This information can be used to develop targeted therapies and personalized medicine approaches. Additionally, spatial omics can contribute to the development of comprehensive “cell atlases” for different species, furthering our understanding of biology and genetics.

Although the market for spatial omics solutions is expanding, there are still technical challenges that need to be addressed. These challenges include data acquisition, processing, storage, and standardized reporting. Overcoming these challenges will be crucial for spatial omics to realize its full potential and become a widely adopted technology in the field of healthcare and research.

Flexible Neural Electronics

Flexible neural electronics are revolutionizing the field of brain-machine interfaces (BMI). These systems allow for greater control of prosthetics and have the potential to treat neurological disorders such as epilepsy. Traditional probes used in BMIs can cause discomfort and lack signal accuracy, which limits their effectiveness.

Flexible neural electronics conform to the shape of the brain, providing a more comfortable and precise interface. This enables more accurate recording and stimulation of brain activity, opening up new possibilities for treating neurological conditions and enhancing human capabilities. Furthermore, flexible neural electronics have the potential to facilitate human-artificial intelligence interfacing, leading to advancements in areas such as neuroprosthetics and cognitive augmentation.

However, ethical considerations must be taken into account when developing and implementing flexible neural electronics. Issues such as data privacy, consent, and the potential for misuse of brain data must be carefully addressed to ensure responsible use of this technology.

Sustainable Computing

Data centers account for a significant amount of global electricity consumption, and their energy consumption is projected to increase in the coming years. Sustainable computing solutions are being developed to prevent rising electricity consumption from becoming an environmental crisis.

Various energy efficiency techniques, such as liquid cooling systems and repurposing excess heat, are being implemented to reduce the energy footprint of data centers. Additionally, integrating renewable energy sources and co-designing technologies for electricity generation, storage, and management are crucial for achieving net-zero data centers.

Sustainable computing not only benefits the environment but also has economic and operational advantages. It reduces operating costs, improves energy efficiency, and enhances the overall sustainability of digital infrastructure. Continued innovation in sustainable computing will play a vital role in creating a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient digital landscape.

Artificial Intelligence Facilitated Health Care

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize global public health systems, particularly in developing countries with inadequate healthcare procedures. AI-based solutions can address the weaknesses exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic, such as long wait times for medical care and inefficient healthcare processes.

AI can be used to analyze large volumes of healthcare data, identify patterns and trends, and assist in diagnosis and treatment decisions. However, the widespread implementation of AI in healthcare faces challenges related to data privacy, public acceptance, and ethical considerations.

To ensure the responsible use of AI in healthcare, ethical frameworks must be put in place to govern the collection, storage, and processing of healthcare data. Additionally, public education and awareness programs should be implemented to address concerns and build trust in AI-based healthcare solutions. With the right safeguards and regulations, AI has the potential to improve healthcare outcomes and make healthcare more accessible and efficient on a global scale.

In conclusion, the top 10 emerging technologies of 2023 hold immense potential for transforming various aspects of our lives. From flexible batteries and generative AI to sustainable aviation fuel and wearable plant sensors, these technologies are poised to redefine healthcare, environmental sustainability, and the digital realm. Although they come with challenges and ethical considerations, the responsible use and further development of these technologies will pave the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive future.