Since 2001, the MIT Technology Review has released their list of the 10 most important technological innovations that emerged each year.
The editors selected each item based on its potential to change the
world. Previous years lists included epigenetics, wireless sensor
networks, grid computing, additive manufacturing, smart watches, and
mobile 3-D. The 2014 list is just as exciting.
Agricultural Drones
Farmers have begun to use agricultural drones adorned with cameras to
improve the treatment of their crops. The drones allow farmers a unique
perspective that previously-used satellite imagery could not provide.
They help to expose issues with irrigation treatment, soil variation,
and distressed plants at a much lower cost than methods like crop
imaging with a manned aircraft. The success of the drones is made
possible by technological advances in GPS modules, digital radios, and
small MEMS sensors. Together, these advances allow farmers to bring
greater precision to their craft in order to reap greater rewards.
Ultraprivate Smartphones
As concerns over personal privacy grow, particularly in terms of new
technology, a Maryland-based company seeks to provide an alternative.
Silent Circle, encrypts clients’ voice calls, text messages, and file
attachments. Encryption prevents potential eavesdroppers from listening
in on phone calls and protects metadata. Silent Circle has big plans for
the future including a secure smartphone called Blackphone. Blackphone
will utilize encryption tools currently used by Silent Circle, as well
as other software that will help secure data.
Brain Mapping
Neuroscientists have worked for decades to better understand how the
brain functions. Recent advances in brain mapping technology have made
that ambitious task easier. An international team of researchers at the
Human Brain Project have created a three dimensional atlas of the brain.
The maps resolution is fifty times better than previous efforts. The
atlas creators digitally stitched together thousands of brain
cross-sections. The map shows details up to 20 micrometers in size—the
estimated size of many human cells. While this is a huge advancement,
scientists still aim to create a map that shows details at 1 or 2
micrometers, rather than 20.
Neuromorphic Chips
Many companies around the globe are working towards blurring the
lines between biological systems and man-made creations. Qualcomm is
making significant steps in developing artificial intelligence system
with the use of Neuromorphic Chips. These chips blend neurology into
traditional technologies like smartphone chips. Qualcomm is already
testing chips in small robots that allow the machines to perform tasks
that typically require a custom computer. The chips can process sensory
data through sight and sound in order to respond in ways that are not
explicitly programmed. For example, the chips could anticipate user
needs.
Genome Editing
Researchers in China created a pair of monkeys with specific
genetic mutations. The scientists used a new method of DNA engineering
known as CRISPR. CRISPR allows scientists to modify fertilized eggs.
This innovation has great implications for the field of biomedicine. The
ability to alter DNA at specific locations on chromosomes makes it
easier to study diseases. Researchers at MIT have expressed interest in
studying brain disorders like autism and Alzheimer’s disease. CRISPR has
the potential to aid researchers studying such ailments, allowing them
to identify what genetic mutations actually cause the disorders.
Microscale 3-D Printing
The potential of 3-D printing technology has many people excited
about new applications. But current printers have important limitations.
Up until recently, most 3-D printers can only use plastic. A group of
researchers at Harvard University, led by Jennifer Lewis, have started
to develop new 3-D printer inks. Her team prints intricate objects using
materials that are chosen based on their mechanical properties,
electrical conductivity, or optical traits. Eventually new inks will
enable a wider variety of functions, including artificial organ
creation.
Mobile Collaboration
The current infrastructure for collaborating in a professional
environment can be counterproductive to getting work done. This problem
is one that new apps like Quip aim to solve. The intent is to develop a
system where every step of the collaboration process happens in the same
digital space. It aims to create a more intimate experience by
implementing chat features and a Facebook-style news feed, in turn
creating a more collaborative experience. These new platforms aim to
improve the efficiency and productivity of current workflows.
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