The MIT Technology Review recently released its "Top 10 Global Breakthrough Technologies" for 2018. This prestigious list, which has been published for 17 years, highlights the most promising and transformative technologies shaping our world today.
1. **Artificial Intelligence for Everyone**
Reason for Selection: Making machine learning tools available through the cloud is helping to democratize AI.
Significance: While AI is currently dominated by a few major companies, integrating it with cloud technology will make it accessible to a broader audience, driving economic growth.
Key Players: Google, Amazon, Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud, Baidu Cloud, Kingsoft Cloud, JD.com Cloud, Huawei Cloud, China Telecom Cloud, and Meitu Cloud.
2. **Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)**
Reason for Selection: These "dueling neural networks" allow two AI systems to create highly realistic images or sounds, a capability machines previously lacked.
Significance: GANs give machines an imaginative edge, reducing their reliance on humans but also creating powerful tools for digital forgery.
Key Researchers: Google Brain, DeepMind, NVIDIA, Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Automation, Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent, Shangtang Tech, Yitu Tech, Yun Cong Tech, and Yushi Tech.
3. **Perfect Online Privacy**
Reason for Selection: A tool originally developed for cryptocurrency transactions now enables users to browse the internet without revealing unnecessary personal information.
Significance: This allows users to protect their privacy and avoid risks like identity theft.
Main Developers: Zcash, JPMorgan Chase, and Holland International Group.
4. **Sensing Cities**
Reason for Selection: Alphabet’s Sidewalk Labs is working on a high-tech community that reimagines urban development. Sensing cities are more livable and eco-friendly.
Significance: Smart cities can improve affordability, sustainability, and quality of life.
Leading Organizations: Sidewalk Labs, Toronto Waterfront, and Alibaba.
5. **Babel-Fish Earbuds**
Reason for Selection: Though early versions are still limited, devices like Google Pixel Buds show promise in real-time translation.
Significance: Real-time multilingual translation could break down language barriers in an increasingly globalized world.
Key Players: Google, Baidu, Tencent, Sogou, Tsinghua University, Harbin Institute of Technology, and Suzhou University.
6. **Gene-Telling (Genetic Forecasting)**
Reason for Selection: Large-scale genetic research enables scientists to predict common diseases and personality traits.
Significance: DNA-based prediction may revolutionize public health but also raises concerns about discrimination.
Leading Researchers: Helix, 23andMe, Myriad Genetics, UK Biobank, Broad Institute, BGI, Yizhen, and WeGene.
7. **Artificial Embryos**
Reason for Selection: Scientists are now creating embryos from stem cells, offering new ways to study early development and test drug safety.
Significance: This breakthrough could lead to deeper insights into human biology but also sparks ethical debates.
Key Institutions: Cambridge University, University of Michigan, Rockefeller University, and Chinese Academy of Sciences.
8. **Materials’ Quantum Leap**
Reason for Selection: Researchers are beginning to model molecules using quantum computers, marking a new era in materials science.
Technological Breakthrough: IBM simulated the electronic structure of small molecules using a 7-qubit quantum computer.
Significance: This could lead to better drugs and more efficient energy materials.
Leading Researchers: IBM, Google, Harvard’s Alán Aspuru-Guzik, USTC, CAS, Zhejiang University, and Alibaba.
9. **Practical 3D Metal Printing**
Reason for Selection: New 3D metal printers have made it possible to produce complex metal parts on demand.
Significance: This technology could transform manufacturing, making it faster, cheaper, and more automated, aligning with Industry 4.0.
Key Companies: Markforged, Desktop Metal, and GE.
10. **Zero-Carbon Natural Gas**
Reason for Selection: A new engineering approach recycles carbon dioxide from natural gas power plants.
Significance: Natural gas accounts for nearly 32% of U.S. electricity and 30% of power sector emissions.
Main Developers: 8 Rivers Capital, Exelon Power Company, and CB&I.
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