Emerging technologies of 2023 – From flexible batteries to a metaverse for mental health
Jun 26, 2023
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Emerging technologies 2023
Like every year, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has released its pick of 10 emerging technologies in 2023 that can have a positive impact on mankind.
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Flexible batteries
Flexible batteries, which are made using lightweight materials, allowing them to be twisted or bent have emerged as the next big thing. The applications include smartwatches, flexible displays and medical wearables.
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Generative AI
Generative artificial intelligence (AI), which is capable of generating new original content, took the world by storm in 2023, after the launch of ChatGPT. The applications of generative AI include all works for like – from education to research and more.
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Sustainable aviation fuel
The introduction of sustainable aviation fuel from biological and non-biological sources is an important short to medium term solution to control carbon emissions from aviation fuel, which contribute to 2 to 3 percent of carbon emissions.
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Designer phages
The breakthrough by scientists in designer phages, which can be used to infect specific types of bacteria, may result in technologies that may be used to treat microbiome-associated diseases or eliminate dangerous bacteria in food supply chains.
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Metaverse for mental health
A new use case of metaverse that has emerged this year is tackling mental health problems. The introduction of shared virtual spaces to improve mental health, virtual reality-enabled meditation and next-gen wearables are among the key technologies being used.
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Wearable plant sensors
Scientists have developed wearable plant sensors that can be attached to a plant to continuously monitor temperature, humidity, moisture and nutrient levels, helping improve plant health and increase yields.
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Spatial omics
Spatial omics have been developed to better understand biology and develop treatments for complex diseases. It allows scientists to view biological processes at the molecular level inside cells.
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Flexible neural electronics
Breakthroughs in flexible neural electronics and biocompatible materials will help improve direct communication between the brain and external computers.
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Sustainable computing
Sustainable computing technologies, such as liquid cooling systems, AI analytics and modular data centres will help realise the goal of net zero-energy data centres.
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AI-facilitated healthcare
Another key area where AI has come into play is healthcare. The role of AI has widened to support the healthcare system – from monitoring pandemic outbreaks to reducing hospital wait times by optimising resource allocation.
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