Trends Report 2023: Quantumrun Foresight
Quantumrun Foresight's annual trends report aims to help readers better understand those trends that are set to shape their lives over the decades ahead and to help organizations make more informed decisions to guide their mid- to long-term strategies.
In this 2023 edition, the Quantumrun team prepared 674 unique insights, divided into 27 sub-reports (below) that span a diverse collection of technological breakthroughs and societal change. Read freely and share widely!
Quantumrun Foresight's annual trends report aims to help readers better understand those trends that are set to shape their lives over the decades ahead and to help organizations make more informed decisions to guide their mid- to long-term strategies.
In this 2023 edition, the Quantumrun team prepared 674 unique insights, divided into 27 sub-reports (below) that span a diverse collection of technological breakthroughs and societal change. Read freely and share widely!
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From human-AI augmentation to "franken-algorithms," this report section takes a closer look at the AI/ML sector trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023. Artificial intelligence and machine learning empower companies to make better and faster decisions, streamline processes, and automate tasks. Not only is this disruption transforming the job market, but it is also affecting society in general, altering how people communicate, shop, and access information. The tremendous benefits of AI/ML technologies are clear, but they may also present challenges for organizations and other bodies looking to implement them, including concerns around ethics and privacy.
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Biotechnology is advancing at breakneck speed, constantly making breakthroughs in fields such as synthetic biology, gene editing, drug development and therapies. However, while these breakthroughs may result in more personalized healthcare, governments, industries, companies, and even individuals must consider the ethical, legal, and social implications of biotech’s rapid advances. This report section will explore some of the biotech trends and discoveries Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Blockchain technology has had a colossal effect on several industries, including disrupting the financial sector by facilitating decentralized finance and providing the foundations that make metaverse commerce possible. From financial services and supply chain management to voting and identity verification, blockchain tech offers a secure, transparent, and decentralized platform for exchanging information, giving individuals more control over their data and assets. However, blockchains also raise questions about regulation and security, as well as the potential for new forms of cybercrime. This report section will cover the blockchain trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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The COVID-19 pandemic upended the business world across industries, and operational models may never be the same again. For instance, the rapid shift to remote work and online commerce has accelerated the need for digitization and automation, forever altering how companies do business. This report section will cover the macro business trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023, including the increasing investment in technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline operations and better serve customers. At the same time, 2023 will undoubtedly hold many challenges, such as data privacy and cybersecurity, as businesses navigate an ever-changing landscape. In what has been termed the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we may see companies—and the nature of business—evolve at an unprecedented rate.
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Climate change, sustainability technologies, and urban design are transforming cities. This report section will cover the trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on regarding the evolution of city living in 2023. For instance, smart city technologies—such as energy-efficient buildings and transportation systems—are helping to reduce carbon emissions and improve quality of life. At the same time, the effects of a changing climate, such as increased extreme weather events and rising sea levels, are putting cities under greater pressure to adapt and become more resilient. This trend is leading to new urban planning and design solutions, such as green spaces and permeable surfaces, to help mitigate these impacts. However, social and economic inequality must be addressed as cities seek a more sustainable future.
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The computing world is evolving at breakneck speed due to the introduction and increasingly widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, quantum supercomputers, cloud storage, and 5G networking. For instance, IoT enables ever more connected devices and infrastructure that can generate and share data on a massive scale. At the same time, quantum computers promise to revolutionize the processing power needed to track and coordinate these assets. Meanwhile, cloud storage and 5G networks provide new ways to store and transmit data, allowing for more novel and agile business models to emerge. This report section will cover the computing trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Smart devices, wearable technology, and virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are fast-growing fields making consumers' lives more convenient and connected. For instance, the growing trend of smart homes, which allow us to control lighting, temperature, entertainment, and other functions with a voice command or a touch of a button, is changing how we live and work. As consumer technology progresses, it will play an even more significant role in our personal and professional lives, causing disruptions and fostering new business models. This report section will investigate some of the consumer technology trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Organizations and individuals face an increasing number and variety of sophisticated cyber threats. To address these challenges, cybersecurity is rapidly evolving and adapting to new technologies and data-intensive environments. These efforts include the development of innovative security solutions that can help organizations detect and respond to cyber-attacks in real time. At the same time, there is an increasing emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to cybersecurity, drawing on computer science, psychology, and law expertise to create a more comprehensive understanding of the cyber threat landscape. The sector plays an increasingly central role in the stability and security of the world's data-driven economy, and this report section will highlight the cybersecurity trends Quantumrun Foresight will focus on in 2023.
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Data collection and usage have become a growing ethical issue, as apps and smart devices have made it easier for companies and governments to gather and store massive amounts of personal data, raising concerns about privacy and data security. The use of data can also have unintended consequences, such as algorithmic bias and discrimination. The lack of clear regulations and standards for data management has further complicated the issue, leaving individuals vulnerable to exploitation. As such, this year might see efforts ramped up in the push to establish ethical principles to protect the rights and privacy of individuals. This report section will cover the data usage trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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In this report section, we take a closer look at the drug development trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023, which have seen significant advancements recently, particularly in vaccine research. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the development and distribution of vaccines and necessitated the introduction of various technologies into this field. For instance, artificial intelligence (AI) has played a crucial role in drug development, enabling faster and more accurate analysis of large amounts of data. Moreover, AI-powered tools, such as machine learning algorithms, can identify potential drug targets and predict their effectiveness, streamlining the drug discovery process. Despite its many benefits, there remain ethical concerns surrounding the use of AI in drug development, such as the potential for biased results.
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The shift towards renewables and clean energy sources has been gathering momentum, driven by climate change concerns. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, offer a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Technology advancement and cost reductions have made renewables increasingly accessible, leading to growing investment and widespread adoption. Despite progress, there are still challenges to overcome, including integrating renewables into existing energy grids and addressing energy storage issues. This report section will cover the energy sector trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) are reshaping the entertainment and media sectors by offering users new and immersive experiences. The advancements in mixed reality have also allowed content creators to produce and distribute more interactive and personalized content. Indeed, the integration of extended reality (XR) into various forms of entertainment, such as gaming, movies, and music, blurs the lines between reality and fantasy and provides users with more memorable experiences. Meanwhile, content creators are increasingly employing AI in their productions, raising ethical questions on intellectual property rights and how AI-generated content should be managed. This report section will cover the entertainment and media trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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The world is seeing rapid advancements in environmental technologies that aim to reduce negative ecological impacts. These technologies encompass many fields, from renewable energy sources and energy-efficient buildings to water treatment systems and green transportation. Likewise, businesses are becoming increasingly proactive in their sustainability investments. Many are ramping up efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste, including investing in renewable energy, implementing sustainable business practices, and using eco-friendly materials. By embracing green technologies, companies hope to reduce their environmental impact while benefiting from cost savings and improved brand reputation. This report section will cover the green tech trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, the ethical implications of its utilization have become increasingly complex. Issues such as privacy, surveillance, and the responsible use of data have taken center stage with the rapid growth of technologies, including smart wearables, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). The ethical use of technology also raises broader societal questions about equality, access, and the distribution of benefits and harms. As a result, the ethics surrounding technology are becoming more critical than ever and require ongoing discussion and policymaking. This report section will highlight a few recent and ongoing data and technology ethics trends that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Technological advancements are not restricted to the private sector, and governments worldwide are also adopting various innovations and systems to improve and streamline governance. Meanwhile, antitrust legislation has seen a marked increase over the last few years as many governments amended and increased tech industry regulations to level the playing field for smaller and more traditional companies. Misinformation campaigns and public surveillance have also been on the rise, and governments around the globe as well as non-governmental bodies, are taking steps to regulate and eliminate these threats to protect citizens. This report section will consider some of the technologies adopted by governments, ethical governance considerations, and antitrust trends that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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The agricultural sector has seen a wave of technological advancements in the last few years, particularly in synthetic food production—a rapidly growing field involving technology and biochemistry to create food products from plant-based and lab-grown sources. The goal is to provide consumers with sustainable, affordable, and safe food sources while reducing traditional agriculture's environmental impact. Meanwhile, the agricultural industry has also turned to artificial intelligence (AI) to, for instance, optimize crop production, reduce waste, and improve food safety. These algorithms can be used to analyze vast amounts of data, such as on soil and weather conditions, to provide farmers with real-time insights into the health of their crops. Indeed, AgTech hopes to improve yields, increase efficiency, and ultimately help feed a growing global population. This report section will cover the AgTech trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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While the COVID-19 pandemic rocked global healthcare, it may also have accelerated the industry's technological and medical advancements in recent years. This report section will take a closer look at some of those ongoing healthcare developments that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023. For instance, advances in genetic research and micro and synthetic biology are providing new insights into disease causes and strategies for prevention and treatment. As a result, the focus of healthcare is shifting from reactive treatment of symptoms to proactive health management. Precision medicine—which uses genetic information to tailor treatment to individuals—is becoming increasingly prevalent, as are wearable technologies that modernize patient monitoring. These trends are poised to transform healthcare and improve patient outcomes, but they are not without a few ethical and practical challenges.
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Infrastructure has been forced to keep up with the blinding pace of recent digital and societal advances. For instance, infrastructure projects that boost internet speed and facilitate renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly important in today's digital and environmentally conscious age. These projects not only support the growing demand for fast and reliable internet but also help mitigate the environmental impact of energy consumption. Governments and private industries invest heavily in such initiatives, including deploying fiber-optic networks, solar and wind energy farms, and energy-efficient data centers. This report section explores various infrastructure trends, including the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G networks, and renewable energy frameworks that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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The rapid pace of technological advancements in various industries has required updated laws around copyright, antitrust, and taxation. With the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), for instance, there is a growing concern over the ownership and control of AI-generated content. Big tech companies' increasing power and influence have also highlighted the need for more robust antitrust measures to prevent market dominance. In addition, many countries are grappling with digital economy taxation laws to ensure technology companies pay their fair share. Failing to update regulations and standards could lead to a loss of control over intellectual property, market imbalance, and revenue shortfalls for governments. This report section will cover the legal trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms are now being used to analyze vast amounts of medical data to identify patterns and make predictions that can assist in the early disease detection. Medical wearables, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, are becoming increasingly sophisticated, allowing healthcare professionals and individuals to monitor health metrics and detect potential issues. This growing array of tools and technologies empowers healthcare providers to make more accurate diagnoses, provide personalized treatment plans, and improve overall patient outcomes. This report section investigates some of the ongoing medical technology advances that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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In recent years, novel therapies and techniques have evolved to meet mental healthcare needs. This report section will cover the mental health treatments and procedures Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023. For example, while traditional talk therapies and medication are still widely used, other innovative approaches, including advances in psychedelics, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence (AI), are also emerging. Combining these innovations with conventional mental health treatments can significantly enhance the speed and effectiveness of mental wellness therapies. The use of virtual reality, for instance, allows for a safe and controlled environment for exposure therapy. At the same time, AI algorithms can assist therapists in identifying patterns and tailoring treatment plans to the specific needs of individuals.
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The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and recognition systems in policing is increasing, and although these technologies might enhance police work, they often raise critical ethical concerns. For example, algorithms assist in various aspects of policing, such as predicting crime hotspots, analyzing facial recognition footage, and assessing the risk of suspects. However, the accuracy and fairness of these AI systems are regularly investigated due to growing concerns over the potential for bias and discrimination. The use of AI in policing also raises questions about accountability, as it often needs to be made clear who is responsible for the decisions made by algorithms. This report section will consider some of the trends in police and crime technology (and their ethical consequences) that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Politics has certainly not remained unaffected by technological advances. For instance, artificial intelligence (AI), misinformation, and "deep fakes" profoundly impact global politics and how information is disseminated and perceived. The rise of these technologies has made it easier for individuals and organizations to manipulate images, videos, and audio, creating deep fakes that are difficult to detect. This trend has led to an increase in disinformation campaigns to influence public opinion, manipulate elections, and sow division, ultimately leading to a decline in trust in traditional news sources and a general sense of confusion and uncertainty. This report section will explore some of the trends surrounding technology in politics that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Delivery drones are revolutionizing how packages are delivered, reducing delivery times and providing greater flexibility. Meanwhile, surveillance drones are used for various purposes, from monitoring borders to inspecting crops. "Cobots," or collaborative robots, are also becoming increasingly popular in the manufacturing sector, working alongside human employees to increase efficiency and productivity. These machines can provide numerous benefits, including enhanced safety, lower costs, and improved quality. This report section will look at the rapid developments in robotics that Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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In recent years, markets have displayed a growing interest in the commercialization of space, leading to an increasing number of companies and nations investing in space-related industries. This trend has created new opportunities for research and development and commercial activities such as satellite launches, space tourism, and resource extraction. However, this increase in commercial activity is also leading to growing tension in global politics as nations compete for access to valuable resources and seek to establish dominance in the arena. The militarization of space is also a growing concern as countries build up their military capabilities in orbit and beyond. This report section will cover the space-related trends and industries Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Transportation trends are shifting towards sustainable and multimodal networks to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. This shift includes transitioning from traditional modes of transportation, such as diesel-fueled vehicles, to more environmentally friendly options like electric cars, public transit, cycling, and walking. Governments, companies, and individuals are increasingly investing in infrastructure and technology to support this transition, improving environmental outcomes and boosting local economies and job creation. This report section will cover the transportation trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
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Remote work, the gig economy, and increased digitization have transformed how people work and do business. Meanwhile, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and robots are allowing businesses to automate routine tasks and creating new job opportunities in fields such as data analysis and cybersecurity. However, AI technologies may also lead to job losses and encourage workers to upskill and adapt to the new digital landscape. Moreover, new technologies, work models, and a shift in employer-employee dynamics are also prompting companies to redesign work and improve the employee experience. This report section will cover the labor market trends Quantumrun Foresight is focusing on in 2023.
