In the 21st century, technology has taken off, projecting far beyond our wildest dreams. Even in the era of the smartphone and Google search engine, it can be difficult to keep up with the fast pace of innovation. Here is a list of the 10 Top Tech Trends in 2014, according to MIT Tech Review and the World Economic Forum Blog.
Genome Editing
Genetic engineering is gaining in the science community because it allows them to make changes to the genome, genetic material, precisely and relatively easily. Genetic engineering has already proven successful in primates created with intentional mutations. This could provide powerful new ways to study complex and genetically baffling brain disorders.
Nanowire Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries, which offer good energy density, are routinely packed into mobile phones, laptops and electric cars, to name just a few common uses. However, to increase the range of electric cars and extend the battery life between charges of mobile phones and laptops, battery energy density needs to be improved dramatically. Researchers have begun to experiment with silicon anodes, which would offer much greater power capacity in batteries.
Screen-Less Display
Screen-less display may be achieved by projecting images directly onto a person’s retina, not only avoiding the need for weighty hardware, but also promising to safeguard privacy by allowing people to interact with computers without others sharing the same view. In January, one start-up company had already raised a substantial sum via Kickstarter, with the aim of commercializing a personal gaming and cinema device using retinal display.