In 2019, technological trends in the digital arena will be characterized by the combination of artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics and intelligent objects. In the words of María Eugenia Fuenmayor, Scientific Director for Digital Technologies at the Eurecat technology centre (a member of Tecnio), “we will continue to see growing numbers of objects equipped with sensors, processing ability, and a certain level of autonomy and connectivity”.
According to her analysis, as well as the evolution of domestic appliances, vehicles and industrial equipment, “we can also expect the launch of new or more refined robots, wearables and intelligent sensors”. The increasing number of intelligent objects will go hand in hand with the rollout of 5G and its capacity to develop the Internet of Things (IoT) through increased interconnectivity.
“As was becoming apparent in early 2017, 5G is progressing more quickly than anticipated and there are already test networks for new applications adapted in line with the data volume, speed and low levels of latency offered by this technology”, Fuenmayor remarked. She also stated that with the unveiling of the standard for standalone 5G in 2018, it is now possible to manufacture 5G-ready products.
One of the areas that has been particularly affected by the development of intelligent objects and the IoT is industrial manufacturing, which will continue to become more automated, connected and intelligent. “The aim is not only to reduce costs, but also to meet the growing demand for ‘Anything as a Service’ (XaaS) on the part of consumers”, Eurecat’s Scientific Director added.
