What the Hype Cycle Tells Us About the Future of Tech.
The Hype Cycle, a model created by research firm Gartner, has been used since the 1990s to monitor the adoption and maturity of new technologies. It is based on the premise that new technologies go through phases of hype, disillusionment, and eventual mainstream adoption. As we enter a new decade, it’s worth taking a look at the Hype Cycle to see what we can expect from the future of technology.
At the moment, AI (Artificial Intelligence) is in the peak of the Hype Cycle. It has been hailed for its potential to revolutionize industries like healthcare, finance, and logistics. In reality, however, AI is still in its early stages of development, and many of its applications are still being explored. The technology requires vast amounts of data to function effectively, and it can be challenging to implement in certain industries.
Blockchain has been in a similar position on the Hype Cycle for several years. Many people see it as a panacea for all sorts of problems, from data security to supply chain inefficiencies. Despite the hype, the implementation of blockchain technology has been slow due to regulatory challenges and lack of clarity on how it could be used to make a real difference.
On the other hand, technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G wireless networks are entering the slope of enlightenment phase, meaning they are becoming increasingly mainstream. IoT devices like smart speakers and smart thermostats are everywhere these days, and 5G networks are just starting to become available. These technologies have shown potential to disrupt many industries, including healthcare, transportation, and retail.
Another technology that is gaining traction is Augmented Reality (AR). AR overlays digital information on top of the real world, creating a hybrid experience. AR has been used in gaming and entertainment, but it has many applications in education, training, and tourism industries. AR is currently in the traction phase, meaning that it is beginning to gain wider adoption.
The Hype Cycle shows us that technology is not a straightforward, linear process. Technologies go through phases of hype and disillusionment before reaching mainstream adoption. Some technologies, like AI and blockchain, are still in the hype phase, while others, like IoT and AR, are starting to become more mainstream. It’s important to keep this in mind as we look towards the future of tech. While new technologies may seem flashy and exciting, we must be realistic about their potential and how they can be implemented in the real world.
