If there’s one thing that remains consistent about technology, it is that it’s always in flux. From tablets to phablets, smart cars to smart TVs, our devices are getting increasingly “smarter” and entwined with our daily routines. To better understand the consumer perspective on these ever-evolving technology trends, we conducted a study of more than 1,500 U.S. citizens called “Safeguarding the Future of Digital America in 2025.” So—what exactly did this study reveal? Let’s have a look.
Evolution of the “Smart Home”
While our report highlighted a variety of opinions on the future of the workspace and transportation, it provided significant insight on how advancing technology will impact consumers’ lifestyles in the home. For example, more than 60% of people think that refrigerators of the future will automatically add items to an electronic grocery list when they’re running low. Furthermore, 84% believe that home security will be connected to and controlled by their mobile devices come 2025—something that we are beginning to see today, with services such as ADT and Comcast leading the way.
The Rise of Wearables
Outside of the home, our research finds that Americans are anticipating great changes in the healthcare sector. In particular, 70% believe that come 2025, people will own and operate wearable devices that send vitals directly to their physician, saving them a physical visit to the doctor’s office—and the infamous wait time involved.
This wasn’t the only prediction concerning wearable technology. US citizens believe that the most common devices in 2025 will be smart watches (77%), connected appliances (72%) and wearables (70%). Apple’s recent announcement of the Apple Watch is sure to be an early catalyst for the adoption of smart watches.
The Future of Cybersecurity
While lifestyle changes are heavily anticipated, the future of cybersecurity also had many participants buzzing. One of the most significant findings was that 68% of Americans have concerns about the future of their security online, with 64% considering identity theft, monetary theft and fraud as the biggest threats. So—what does this data tell us?
For one, Americans’ concern with cybersecurity is likely a result of the highly publicized hacks to retail and financial institutions that we have been experiencing lately. In addition, the continual growth of connectivity between devices and the Internet (often referred to as the “Internet of Things” or “IoT”), offers many conveniences, but also poses risks and questions for many consumers about how their privacy and security will be impacted. For example, a recent study by HP Fortify reflected how the top 10 most popular IoT devices available today had, on average, 25 vulnerabilities.
Americans clearly look forward to more convenience, but they also understand the importance of balancing this convenience with the need to be safe.
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