Top 5 Strategic Technology Trends in 2014

2013 has brought numerous innovations in the field of technology and, by the looks of it, 2014 will enchant us with even more novelties. Today, we would like to present you with a list of the top strategic technology trends in 2014, according to a report issued by Gartner Inc (NYSE:IT), a US information technology research firm. During the company’s latest symposium and IT exposition in October 2013, IT executives from around the world gathered round and discussed the newest trends in the field. Following, we would like to provide you with a brief overview of these trends. Let’s take a look.

No. 5: Small changes in the app manufacturing market

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With over 100 app tool providers, the app manufacturing market will continue to remain fragmented. Nonetheless, as demands grow, app developers will be forced to focus on creating models that use richer video and voice, so as to provide the user with a more significant experience. In addition, as JavaScript performance continues to increase, it is believed that the browser and HTML5 will become the main environment for developing apps.

No. 4: Private app stores

As companies start relying on app, mobile, and cloud technology, Gartner believes that more and more organizations will create their own app stores, so as to be able to deliver them to employees. In addition, starting with 2014, it is expected that over 70 billion app downloads will be performed every single year.

No. 3: The 3D printing industry is booming

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As 3D printing technology becomes more cost effective and increasingly more viable, more and more companies are starting to realize that it represent a real option of reducing manufacturing costs and improving designs. Because of this increased awareness, the experts at Gartner predict that the 3D printers will register a 75% growth in 2014. The figure for 2015 is even more impressive: 200%.

No. 2: The dawn of the personal cloud

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Cloud technology has been playing an increasingly more important role in the IT field and the fact that it will continue to evolve in 2014 is no surprise at all. However, experts believe that the trend will move towards the personal cloud. Consequently, less attention will be given to the device itself, and more focus will be put on services. The type of smartphone or tablet used will no longer be as important; instead, the personal cloud will service some of the tasks the device normally did.

No. 1: Mobile device vs. PC

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In 2013, smart mobile devices have gained the title of the most common tool used to access the Internet, thus surpassing personal computers. But the experts at Gartner predict that the domination will continue to increase exponentially. By the beginning of 2015, it is estimated that more than 80% of all handsets sold in mature markets will be smartphones.