Juniper Research has identified the top technology trends awaiting 2020. These trends revolve around key technologies like machine learning and AI, blockchain, IoT, automation EDGE computing, RCS, chatbots and the like.
- Adversarial machine learning becomes key for security and fraud prevention
Adversarial machine learning can address a variety of security and fraud prevention issues including identifying the weakness of algorithm and ensuring prodtection, integrity and validity of data. In 2019, numerous applications of machine learning are positioned in adversarial circumstances. More industries are adopting machine learning algorithms into their processes, making security a priority for them.
- AI to enhance EDGE computing power in IoT systems
AI will help in the rapid collation of significant types and amounts of insightful, filtered data to make efficient business decisions, driven by increased efficiency of IoT operations, faster predictions and improved security. In November 2018, Interl launched the NCS 2 stick to enhance speed and proccessing at the EDGE for AI applications. In September Intel also launched EDGE computing platform in partnership with Alibaba.
- Banking-as-a-Service economy emerges
Banks largely benefit from the service as they can extend their reach further into their customers’ devices. Juniper predicts that while PSD2 will apply only within the EU, similar services are likely to emerge worldwide by the end of the year as banks in other markets adopt similar technologies.
- RCS messaging to contest chatbots and OTT business platforms
As operators continue to experience migration of messaging traffic to OTT apps, RCS provides opportunity for new revenue from messaging services. RCS has the potential to offer the same level of reach as SMS with the media-rich functionality of OTT messaging applications. In 2019, establishing the most profitable monetization models will become increasingly important for operators.
- Robotic Process Automation ramps up
According to Juniper Research, robotic process automation (RPA) will increase operational efficiencies, minimize errors and reduce manual tasks. SAP has announced their intention to offer AI-based RPA service in the near future. Given the interest from major players, RPA adoption is expected to rise in 2019.
- Voice assistants become a Service-led market
With voice emerging as an ideal platform for the delivery of a variety of digital services, software deals in partnership with voice assistant vendors are expected to further differentiate voice assistant ecosystems. Several digital players now have smart speaker products and monetization through product channels has stalled. With Alexa and Echo becoming more distinct, other vendors need to differentiate through software and services. Smart speaker adoption is set to be at approximately 9 percent of households worldwide in 2019.
- Automotive OEMs to disrupt established business models
Automotive OEMs will use emerging technologies to deplore new strategies for monetization and prepare for future autonomous systems. They will also begin exploring new strategies that will disrupt the established vehicle ownership model in preparation for autonomous vehicles. The release of 5G and the investment ins mart mobility startups will be a key driving force for OEMs entering the Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) market.
- Blockchain moves into the food chain
Blockchain technology can be used to accurately, independently and quickly track food provenance. It is estimated that $150 million worth of food will be tracked using blockchain in 2019. IBM’s Food Trust solution became generally available in October 2018, and other successful pilots were carried out throughout 2018.
- Loot boxes to be banned across Europe and North America
Game publishers will continue facing the pressure from regulators for including loot boxes in their content. As a result, they will have to explore new monetization models. Pressure from gambling regulators and activities in countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands will lead to bans on loot boxes being implemented in 2019.
- Chatbots to play central role in insurance claims process:
Insurance firms can use chatbots to offer personalized answers, greater automation during claims processing and reduced response time. Lemonade Insurance Company has demonstrated that inclusion of chatbots has been integral to its business model. With the rise of insurance cloud platforms, many firms will use chatbot data to greater effect in 2019.