5 tech trends you should be watching in 2017
Friday, January 20, 2017
From virtual reality to data privacy - here are the top five technology trends you should be watching in 2017.

1. MORE MEGA-TECH PLATFORM ACTIVITY
Mega-techs (household names like Apple, Amazon and Samsung) are creating platforms to unite home devices like door locks and security cameras.
2. Differential privacy
With more people concerned about their data being sold, crowdsourcing data to create better experiences—while keeping individual user data private—will only become more important in 2017.
3. Chatbots & artificial intelligence
Chatbots are simple systems that users interact with via text or voice, and they offer an alternative to downloading yet another app to help you access information or get something done.
4. Enhanced design
Enhanced design is the idea of incorporating new technology into the aesthetic and functional design of a project—creating opportunities to make the home safer, more efficient and more convenient.
5. Augmented & virtual reality
The practical applications for these technologies are becoming clearer each year, ranging from offering virtual test drives for car buyers to online stores that allow shoppers to “browse” the shelves.
Rob Martens | Futurist and VP of Strategy and Partnerships
Rob Martens uses his unique talent for identifying patterns and associations to look for mega trends in technology, as well as the ways they can be used to improve the average person’s day.