The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified the ten technologies with the greatest potential to make a positive impact in the world in the next three to five years.

The WEF unpacks these technologies in a ‘Top 10 Emerging Technologies’ report, published on June 25, explaining that technology enables improved decision-making through understanding the factors that shape the future, and revolutionising connectivity.

Among the ten technologies are AI for scientific discovery; reconfigurable intelligent surfaces; high-altitude platform stations; and integrated sensing.

While AI has been used in research for many years, advances in deep learning, generative AI and foundation models are revolutionising the scientific discovery process.

The WEF says AI will enable researchers to make unprecedented connections and advancements in understanding diseases, proposing new materials and enhancing knowledge of the human body and mind​​.

The report also finds that protecting personal privacy is becoming more prevalent, while providing new opportunities for global data sharing and collaboration. ‘Synthetic data’ is set to transform how information is handled with powerful applications in health-related research.

On the topic of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, the WEF says these innovative surfaces turn ordinary walls and surfaces into intelligent components for wireless communication while enhancing energy efficiency in wireless networks. They hold promise for numerous applications, from smart factories to vehicular networks​​.

Moreover, high-altitude platform stations using aircraft, blimps and balloons can extend mobile network access to remote regions, which helps to bridge the digital divide for people worldwide​​.

Additionally, the advent of 6G networks facilitates simultaneous data collection (sensing) and transmission (communication). This enables environmental monitoring systems that help in smart agriculture, environmental conservation and urban planning applications.

Integrated sensing and communication devices also promise to reduce energy and silicon consumption.

The WEF further explains that immersive technology for the built world involves combining computing power with virtual and augmented reality. These technologies promise rapid improvements in infrastructure and daily systems and allow designers and construction professionals to check for correspondence between physical and digital models, ensuring accuracy and safety and advancing sustainability.

In terms of climate change, as global temperatures rise, the need for cooling solutions is set to increase. The use of technology such as elastocalorics, which release and absorb heat under mechanical stress, can present a sustainable alternative to current technologies with higher efficiency and lower energy use.