These technology trends will dominate 2016: IHS
StartFragmentFrom 3D printing of prosthetic arms to investing billions in virtual reality handsets, in 2015 technology saw many milestones reached and barriers overcome.EndFragment
StartFragmentAnd developments are about to get more cutting edge. In its 2016 global technology trends outlook report, research firm IHS has listed several key themes that are likely to dominate the landscape.EndFragment
StartFragment1. Thinner, lighter, flexible displaysEndFragment
Flexible displays have been a much talked about subject in 2015 and new developments, especially in organic light emitting diodes (OLED) technology are ushering in innovation in wearables and other, newer products which use fold-able screens.
OLED screens comprise thin films of organic molecules that create light when electricity is applied to them. This makes them more energy efficient than traditional LCD screens and enables thinner and bendable displays on smart devices.
Reports suggest consumer electronics giant Samsung might launch a fold-able smartphone in the first half of 2016.
But, IHS warned, the highly specialized nature of the industry will mean "many panel makers may not be able to survive the tough market situation expected in 2016, which will lead to further consolidation in the industry."
StartFragment2. Wearable earbudsEndFragment
Smartwatches and activity trackers, such as Fitbit, have continued to dominate the wearable technology space in recent years. The one accessory to look out for 2016 is wireless earbuds which can fit inside the ear and have battery life to operate over a week between charges.
IHS said this will let users enjoy hands-free calling, music streaming, and other traditional audio applications. They will also have the capacity to provide audible notifications for activities including monitoring heart rates. Apple and Samsung are expected to bring this type of device to the market, using Bluetooth technology.
Previously, CNBC's "The Rundown" spoke to a US-based technology startup, Doppler Labs, which already offers something similar in the market. CEO Noah Kraft spoke about the company's Here Active Listening, a pair of digital ear buds, that can be controlled using a smartphone app to adjust volume, add special audio effects, and block out unwanted noises.
"It allows you to hear the world the way you want to hear it," said Kraft.
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