How Will Technology Affect Society in the Future?

Throughout the years, technology has changed the way we live our lives. From smart phones and GPS to robotics, there is a lot to be learned from the advancements that have taken place. But, how will these advances impact society in the future?

Streaming films and music

Streaming films and music will affect society in the future. While these services are no match for the film and television industry when it comes to ad revenue, they have enjoyed a steady growth in subscribers over the last few years. In the first quarter of 2021, streaming services accounted for 487 million global subscribers. This figure represents a staggering 62.1 percent of total music industry revenue. In 2020, streaming services will generate $13.4 billion in revenue. Streaming platforms have largely failed to live up to their proponents’ claims of freedom and convenience.

In terms of streaming, the most interesting innovation to come out of the gate was the introduction of social functionality. This includes features such as the ability to share libraries and recommendations with other users. Similarly, users could follow people they admired or liked musically. It was also possible to share tips, libraries, and playlists with friends.

Artificial intelligence

Despite its potential to reshape the future of work, artificial intelligence raises serious concerns about safety, transparency, and freedom of choice. As with any technological advance, governments and companies must prepare for its effects.

A key challenge is reorganizing economic and political systems to expand human capabilities. As AI and digital technology become more commonplace, a “moonshot mentality” is needed to build decentralized intelligent digital networks that are imbued with empathy and social responsibility.

The United States has played a key role in guiding the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI). GPAI is a voluntary, multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at addressing issues related to the impact of AI on society. The United States has contributed to the initiative through research and development partnerships, as well as advocacy for U.S. companies.

Predictive policing

Using data from social media sites, predictive policing software can determine when a person will be at risk of committing a crime. However, this method does not accurately represent human behavior in the real world. Moreover, the data may be incomplete or biased.

Although predictive policing may help to decrease crime rates, there are ethical and legal questions that should be considered. Moreover, it can have disparate impacts on communities already burdened by overpolicing. In fact, a predictive policing system could lead to a false crime rate, thereby putting the burden of overpolicing on citizens and communities that need it the most.

In addition, predictive policing software uses large amounts of historical data, which may not be accurate. Moreover, criminal data is known to be incomplete or biased, which could distort the analysis. It is therefore crucial that departments put in place policies and procedures to ensure that the data they collect is accurate and authentic.

Robotic exoskeletons

Using robotic exoskeletons can benefit the general population, people who are able to walk independently, and people with neurological and muscle disease. The exoskeletons can also improve the quality of life and the security of the patients. They can also be used in industrial applications.

There are several types of lower extremity robotic exoskeletons. Some are flexible, while others are rigid. They are classified according to their function and application needs. These exoskeletons can enhance the ability of patients and reduce exercise fatigue. They can also protect the joints and help people with lower extremity dysfunction. They can help the patients to recover their original physiological function.

One of the early exoskeletons was the MAN-Amplifier developed by Cornell Aeronautical Labs (CAL) in 1961. It was the first exoskeleton with force amplification, and was driven by a servo motor.

Digital cooperation between states

Whether we like it or not, digital technologies are a major geopolitical force, driving social and economic change. New formats of international cooperation are emerging to address shared digital challenges. They may not be ready for full implementation, but they are laying the foundations for a digital future.

The UN Secretary General recently appointed a High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation, which is meant to strengthen international cooperation in the digital space. The panel brings together leaders from business, government, academia, and civil society. It is designed to assess the impact of digital technologies across society and identify policy gaps. The Panel issued a final report in June, with a proposal for strengthening international cooperation.

The panel’s recommendations include an agenda for action, which includes 12 commitments to promote digital cooperation. It also proposes a multi-stakeholder understanding, the Global Digital Compact, to promote an open, free, and secure digital future for all. It also includes an emphasis on capacity-building and digital public goods.