Exploring the 2030 tech trinity: How data, connectivity, and AI will shape our future

There can be no doubt that we stand on the brink of transformative advances in technology, marked by the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and unprecedented advancements in global connectivity.

We have already seen the rapid emergence of, and growth in, offerings such as generative AI, which had the greatest impact out of a flurry of advancements in technology such as cybersecurity, sustainable tech, intelligent applications, extended reality (XR), platform engineering, and edge computing.

Over the next few years, the adoption of AI will become more advanced as IT providers use it to augment the development of technologies and software solutions, enhance cloud offerings so they are more tailored to specific industries such as manufacturing, or job functions such as accounting, as well as place a strong emphasis on digital trust and environmental sustainability.

The latest forecasts from the International Data Corporation indicate that worldwide spending on AI, including AI-enabled applications including process and industry applications that automatically learn, discover, and make recommendations or predictions, infrastructure, and related IT and business services, will have more than doubled between 2024 and 2028, when it is expected to reach $632 billion (R11.46 trillion).

This year alone has seen the arrival of Ambient Invisible Intelligence (AII) as technology increasingly blends seamlessly with everyday life. Its significance lies in enabling a frictionless, intuitive interaction between humans and technology, promising an era in which devices and systems become entirely context-aware.

There is no doubt that, before we reach the end of the decade, AI is set to become increasingly autonomous and deeply integrated into our daily lives. This evolution, coupled with leaps in connectivity with the anticipated deployment of 6G networks will unlock new potential for technological solutions.

Already, 5G as a mobile standard is becoming commonplace in many parts of the world, and 6G, likely to start being rolled out in 2030, is set to enable the promise of the cyber-physical world, enabling the digital representation, or twin, of the physical world. 6G will provide radically higher speeds, lower latency, and enable revolutionary applications in immersive tech, remote operations, and IoT.

The rapid technological evolution of software, increased processing speed alongside environmental gains and improved governance frameworks will enable capabilities such as ubiquitous virtual reality, holographic communication, and ultra-reliable remote surgery.

Quantum technologies will reach greater maturity, significantly altering computing power, cybersecurity strategies, pharmaceutical research, and complex problem-solving across multiple industries.

Security, as always, is key and cybersecurity will be enhanced through Post-Quantum Cryptography, cryptographic algorithms that are designed to be secure enterprises from attacks by both classical and quantum computers, which reflects growing cybersecurity threats associated with the imminent arrival of quantum computing. The emergence of this technology underlines the urgency of protecting sensitive information against future quantum-enabled cyberattacks.

Building on neurological enhancements through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to improve cognitive functioning, Advanced Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) could become mainstream.

Neurological Enhancement, which is set to come into its own by 2030, signifies a groundbreaking shift towards direct integration of technology with human cognitive processes. This development could fundamentally alter how we enhance human capabilities, treat cognitive impairments, and approach mental health and productivity.

BCI will facilitate unprecedented levels of human-computer integration, radically transforming healthcare, communication, and personal productivity.

Smart, interconnected cities powered by sustainable technology are expected to become widespread, integrating AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and clean energy solutions for efficient, resilient, and eco-friendly urban living.

Polyfunctional Robots will mark a shift from specialised robotic functions towards robots that can adapt to multiple tasks across industries, significantly enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.

These future, yet not far-fetched, technological leaps means that human skills will undergo significant transformation as talents are enhanced so people can work alongside, rather than be replaced by, AI. This will place the emphasis on creativity, strategic thinking, adaptability, and ethical judgment as essential qualities to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

Ultimately, these rapidly evolving and future-focused technologies offer profound opportunities to reshape society, redefine industries, and enhance everyday life. As we journey towards 2030 and beyond, embracing and thoughtfully guiding these innovations will be critical in building an inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

Jacqui Muller is UiPath Most Valued Professional, one of two people to achieve this accolade in South Africa and the only female in Africa.

BUSINESS REPORT