Tencent, a leading Chinese technology company, recently released a detailed report on the top 10 technology trends expected to shape 2024. The report, compiled by Tencent Research Institute, provides an extensive analysis of future technological developments and their potential impacts. in various fields. Below is a comprehensive look at the key trends outlined in the report.
Quantum Computing and Quantum Processor Unit (QPU): IBM marked a significant milestone in quantum computing with the unveiling of Quantum System Two in December 2023, introducing a modular architecture that can accommodate up to 10,000 qubits. These advances highlight replicability and point out a new direction for quantum computing. scalability. Moreover, the focus is shifting from qubit count to factors such as error correction and scalability, indicating the maturation of QPU technology.
High Performance Computing (HPC) and Cloud-Edge Collaboration: The evolution of HPC is moving toward a collaborative framework between cloud and edge computing. As single-point computing performance reaches exascale levels, applications such as autonomous driving and robotics are becoming increasingly feasible. Technologies such as neuromorphic and optoelectronic chips are also enhancing edge computing capabilities.
A variety of high-performance chips: Tech giants such as Microsoft and Meta are developing high-performance CPUs and AI accelerators. In addition to the traditional x86 architecture, other chip architectures are also entering the HPC field. The integration of Near-Memory Computing technologies from Intel, AMD, and Nvidia is addressing the “memory wall” bottleneck in chip performance.
Rise of cloud-native technologies: Cloud-native technologies are becoming increasingly popular as cloud platforms accelerate support for HPC services. This trend is expected to unlock the potential of HPC power.
The proliferation of scientific computing and simulation applications: The expansion and upgrade of global HPC clusters and the application of cloud-native technologies are making computing power more accessible. Scientific simulations, ranging from fine particle simulations to weather and geospatial simulations, are expected to see significant growth.
AI-based industrial development: AI large-scale models have emerged as an important element of industrial upgrading and high-quality development. These models are expected to be applied first to digital native companies and industries where digital and physical systems are highly integrated.
Sustainable High-Performance Computing: As power consumption in data centers increases, sustainable computing is becoming a priority. Companies like Intel and IBM are focusing on sustainable, high-performance computing technologies.
IoT Era and Ubiquitous Computing: The proliferation of interconnected products, such as smart home devices and self-driving cars, is driving the development of universal operating systems to simplify the management and control of these devices.
Cloud computing adapts to user needs. As the complexity of cloud services evolves, technologies such as AI, big data, and digital twins are taking shape.
Spacetime AI for Urban Dynamics: Spacetime AI is being used to model a variety of urban scenarios and supports efficient planning and management of cities.
Software-Defined Energy Network (SDEN): SDEN uses software to manage and control energy supply, distribution and security, and facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.
Web3 and expanding applications: Despite the challenges, Web3 is evolving to accommodate more applications beyond cryptocurrency trading, thanks to advances in transaction verification and privacy.
Robotics with improved tactile perception: Advances in materials, electronics, and machine learning algorithms will improve the spatial resolution and accuracy of tactile sensors, which will benefit a variety of applications, including remote operation of industrial robots and medical surgical robots.
Digital humans for interactive applications: Digital humans are evolving from non-interactive objects to intelligent conversational beings capable of complex interactions, potentially extending beyond gaming into fields such as tourism, sales, marketing, information and education.
Digital Office for Enhanced Collaboration: The shift to remote work is expected to continue due to the pandemic, with major companies adopting remote or hybrid work models.
Integrated Industrial Security: As digital technologies permeate various industries, there is an increasing need for comprehensive security measures encompassing infrastructure, data, digital supply chain, and cybersecurity.
These trends reflect Tencent’s vision for the future of technology and its impact on industries and everyday life as a whole.
Image source: Shutterstock