Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping our world, from self-driving cars to AI-powered video creation and robots handling repetitive tasks. But as AI continues to evolve, experts are pondering: What groundbreaking technology will follow in its footsteps?
This intriguing question was at the heart of discussions at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, where thought leaders from various fields gathered to explore the potential candidates for the next tech revolution.
Sustainable Solutions in the Spotlight
Esko Aho, former Finnish prime minister, emphasized the immense potential in the pursuit of sustainable energy. “The energy problem overshadows AI development,” he remarked, highlighting the pressing need for renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and nuclear to meet future demands and environmental concerns.
Aho also envisions AI playing a crucial role in elder care, particularly as China’s aging population grows. “AI-powered solutions could significantly bolster current elder care services,” he noted, pointing to opportunities to enhance support systems for the elderly.
Echoing this sentiment, Zhang Yue, Chairman and CEO of the Broad Group, proposed innovative material shifts in energy technology. He suggested using aluminum or titanium instead of fiberglass in wind turbines. “This could be a game-changer for energy technology,” Zhang stated, emphasizing the need to overcome energy limitations to advance AI.
To the Red Planet and Beyond
Space exploration emerged as another frontier for technological revolution. Zhang Keke, Director of the Macau Institute of Space Technology and Application, believes that human migration to Mars presents a groundbreaking opportunity. “Evidence of water and a potentially habitable environment makes Mars a candidate for terraforming,” he explained, envisioning a new era for humanity beyond Earth.
The Evolving Face of AI
Despite the search for what’s next, the AI revolution itself is far from over. Lee Kyoung-mu, a professor at Seoul National University, predicted a significant leap in AI’s capabilities within five years. “AI could potentially surpass human intelligence,” he asserted, emphasizing the rapid evolution of AI and the need to prepare for its convergence with other transformative technologies like quantum computing and nuclear fusion.
As these experts illustrate, the future of technology holds many possibilities, from sustainable energy breakthroughs to interplanetary exploration and the continued evolution of AI. The next tech revolution may well be a convergence of these fields, ushering in unprecedented changes to our society and the way we live.
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AI ushers in change, but what's next? Experts debate tech's future
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