Amy Webb, a futurist, recently made a bold statement at SXSW 2024, declaring that “Today, this is the worst our tech will ever be.” This statement was made during her featured session where she launched the 2024 Emerging Tech Trend Report. Webb highlighted three major trends – AI, the connected ecosystem of ‘things,’ and advancements in biotechnology – that are set to disrupt everything in the near future.
According to Webb, these trends are not just passing fads but long-term patterns that indicate a direction of change over time. The rapid advancements in these areas are creating a dynamic and uncertain environment that is reshaping industries, societies, and geopolitics.
During her panel at SXSW, Webb discussed the convergence of these trends and the implications for society and business. She emphasized the need for strategic foresight to navigate the complexities of the tech landscape and ensure organizational resiliency in the face of unforeseen disruptions.
Webb highlighted the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the connected ecosystem of ‘things,’ and biotechnology. She discussed the importance of accountability in AI, the shift towards conceptual prompts for assisted thinking, and the move towards more open and unrestricted AI models.
In terms of the connected ecosystem of ‘things,’ Webb emphasized the importance of data and the potential for hyper-personalized experiences with AI-first hardware. She also addressed the challenges posed by the power-hungry nature of these devices and the limitations of semiconductor chip technology.
Lastly, Webb discussed the role of biotechnology in the tech supercycle, highlighting the potential for materials science to revolutionize AI and computing systems. She also touched on the concept of Organoid Intelligence and its implications for the future of technology.
Overall, Webb’s insights at SXSW 2024 shed light on the transformative power of emerging technologies and the need for proactive decision-making to shape a positive future. As we stand on the precipice of a new era in tech, it is crucial to understand and anticipate the potential risks and rewards that these trends bring.