3 Trends That Are Changing How We Use Technology

Now, as the name would suggest, most technological trends simply come and then go. But every now and again, a trend will transcend its simple definition to truly change the way we interact with our devices. Touch screens are an example of this. What was once seen as a passing gimmick is now a staple of the technology we use daily. While it’s impossible to predict what trend is going to be the next one to really stick (though I promise you, it’s not “hoverboards”), here are three examples of tech that look like they might be here to stay.

1. 360 Video

360 video is just what it sounds like: Video that can be viewed in 360 degrees. Typically, this works by either swiping or using a “click-and-drag” motion to swivel your perspective around within a particular video. Facebook and YouTube are the most common places to view this kind of content. While it is still an emerging trend, some of the video that already exists online is intriguing to say the least. Take a look at some of my favorites (for the best possible experience, make sure you set the resolution of the videos to at least 1080p).

Don’t forget to drag your screen around!

2. Virtual Reality

Now don’t get me wrong, 360 Video is pretty cool on its own, but really, it’s only half of the puzzle. The other half is virtual reality. With VR Headsets becoming more and more available (including Google Cardboard), getting a taste for virtual reality has never been easier. And there are countless VR experiences emerging all the time. Take, for example, THE VOID. The Void is a startup in Lindon, Utah, that has created a digital experience like no other. Participants put on a VR headset and suit to maneuver through a specially designed course. The virtual landscape you see through your headset matches the specially created course, essentially transporting you into another world. You can get more information on The Void here.

On a smaller scale, however, experiences are being curated on virtual reality through apps. While most VR is currently limited to what you can do with Google Cardboard (or a similar product) and your phone, the Oculus Rift and other VR headsets are expected arrive soon that will offer a more immersive experience. So, stay on the lookout.

3. Virtual Voice Assistants

Replace this with Alexa!

The final trend in this article isn’t directly related to virtual reality or 360 video (yet), but could one day be used in conjunction with both. Voice assistants like Siri or Google Now have been available on phones for more than a few years, but only recently have these voice assistants really started listening. Take the Amazon Echo for instance. This surprise hit debuted on Amazon a little over a year ago and is an “always-on” speaker that listens for your voice. At any time, say “Alexa,” followed by a request, and you control a variety of things, including your music, your lights, your thermostat and more. On top of that, you can edit an on-going shopping list, ask for tomorrow’s forecast or even request a joke. Alexa is surprisingly useful. But don’t worry, voice assistants aren’t poised to take over the world quite yet.