The adoption of new technologies plays a pivotal role in business transformation, enhancing productivity and profitability. Gartner has identified five key technologies that businesses should consider incorporating to enrich their operational capabilities.

Here are the five technologies identified by Gartner:

• The Digital Human: While generative AI isn't at the top of the list, the concept of the digital human, a subset of generative AI, takes the spotlight. Digital humans are AI creations that embody real individuals in various aspects, such as personality, appearance, humor, and knowledge. Many companies have adopted digital humans to boost engagement and address the growing interest in AI. However, Gartner cautions against inappropriate behaviors like biases and stereotypes that may arise, emphasizing the need to establish rules.
• Satellite Communications: This technology, exemplified by SpaceX's Starlink, offers low-latency connectivity from low Earth orbit satellites. Satellite communications are garnering increasing interest as they have the potential to revolutionize communication between individuals and businesses. However, Gartner highlights that this emerging industry requires a cautious approach due to its complexity.
• Miniature and Ambient IoT (Internet of Things): This variant of the Internet of Things (IoT) enables tracking and object detection without the need for batteries. This opens the door to more extensive information collection at a lower cost, with the potential to create new ecosystems, business models, and innovative products. However, Gartner warns that social and regulatory issues must be considered before adopting this technology.
• Secure Computation: In a world where data protection is of paramount importance, secure computation allows for calculations while preserving the confidentiality of information. Gartner underscores that implementing secure computing poses challenges in terms of costs, skills, and performance, but emerging technologies such as optical accelerators will play a key role in its realization.
• Autonomous Robots: Autonomous robots, capable of operating with minimal human intervention and adapting to different environments, offer a wide range of business applications. They can perform tasks such as object lifting, surveillance, and data collection. However, Gartner highlights the many challenges associated with these technologies, including limitations in their capabilities and business, legal, and ethical implications.

These five technologies are considered potential drivers of transformation, offering businesses new opportunities and significant advantages. However, their adoption requires careful evaluation and consideration of the various issues associated with each of them.