Upcoming Tech Trends 2022

While 2020 and 2021 have brought certain achievements, the persistent disruptions caused by Covid-19 have significantly delayed progress in many areas. However, 2022 presents an opportunity to realise what the previous two years could not.

Here are our tech trend predictions for 2022.

Digitalisation

The pandemic has accelerated digitalisation, compelling businesses to adopt online approaches to remain operational and competitive. As we move into 2022, the trend towards remote working is expected to continue, driven by employee demand for roles that support flexible work arrangements. Organisations have also had to adapt their strategies to meet consumer needs through digital channels, prompting changes in existing procedures, processes, and marketing approaches.

In 2022, we anticipate that businesses will further optimise their digital capabilities, focusing on enhanced collaboration, tighter security, and stricter data governance while aiming for improved performance and cost-efficiency.

Metaverse

The concept of the metaverse is rapidly gaining traction as a virtual reality space where people can interact, communicate, and engage socially. Meta (formerly Facebook) is positioning itself as a leader in this emerging field, but other major tech companies are also expected to make significant moves in this area. There is widespread anticipation that 2022 will be a year of intense competition as companies race to establish a strong presence in the metaverse.

This rush to innovate is comparable to the early days of the internet, presenting vast opportunities for growth. The initial impact will likely be felt in the workplace, with training sessions and meetings potentially moving to virtual reality settings, offering richer and more immersive interactions. However, the metaverse remains a nascent concept, and significant evolution is expected in the coming years.

Right to Repair

A notable trend set to gain momentum in 2022 is the growing emphasis on consumer rights to repair their own devices. Major tech companies like Apple and Microsoft have recently announced plans to make self-repair more accessible, setting a precedent for others to follow. While this shift will not happen overnight, it is expected that more companies will adopt similar practices, allowing end-users to repair their devices and thereby extending their lifespan. This trend aligns with broader sustainability goals by reducing electronic waste and promoting longer use of technology products.

Cloud Computing

The cloud computing market is poised for continued growth, with projections indicating it will surpass a value of £173 billion. Currently, 92% of businesses have a multi-cloud strategy, and 80% are leveraging a hybrid cloud approach, underscoring the increasing reliance on cloud-based services. The integration of data across different environments is becoming a standard expectation, particularly in a post-pandemic world where remote working remains prevalent.

Additionally, the microservices market is projected to reach a value of £2.7 billion by 2026, with 2022 set to witness a notable increase in microservices adoption.

Perception of the Tech Industry

Research indicates that public trust in the tech industry is currently at an all-time low, largely due to concerns over personal data, job displacement, and cybersecurity threats. In response, many large tech companies are seeking to rebuild trust by adopting more transparent practices and improving their engagement with users.

Looking Ahead: Tech Trends in 2022

In summary, 2022 is expected to be a year of substantial recovery as the world adapts to living with Covid-19. The tech industry is poised to make significant strides as corporations aim to regain momentum and capitalise on opportunities for innovation and growth.