Smartphones are the most commonly used technology worldwide. It enables people to communicate with friends and family fastly within seconds. In addition, we use them to listen to music, take pictures, read news, post on social media, shop, and make financial transactions. One of the research centres in the United States reported that 97 % of US adults own a smartphone. However, today’s smartphone is gradually becoming obsolete with new technologies, i.e., augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence.
Nowadays, smartphones serve as a valuable channel for these innovations by connecting us to the AR world, VR headsets, and voice assistants through apps. But with time, as the software of these innovations develops and improves, the smartphone will eventually become dispensable. It serves as a gateway for these technologies that will result in the extinction of smartphones.
Have a Look At These Technologies In Detail
Augmented Reality
One of the technologies that may replace smartphones is augmented reality. This new technology has various attractive and efficient features. In AR technology, people can wear the device on their face to see virtual elements layered on top of the real world. For example, users can see areas around them and floating digital objects in their field of view like apps, games, or notifications.
According to predictions, Apple will release an augmented reality device next year. Like Apple, Google is also working on AR technology and has released the Google Glass Device in 2020 with the addition of the Augmedix application, based on a headset camera for medical purposes. Smartphones will still be the primary device for most of the decade but gradually will be replaced with augmented reality glasses.
Virtual Reality
Another technology that might replace smartphones is virtual reality. In it, the user might be able to experience being inside another world. According to a report, 257 million VR headsets will be used by 2021. Companies like Samsung, Nokia, Microsoft, and Intel make considerable investments in VR tech and plan to optimise eye-tracking technology on mobile VR platforms. Gradually new advances may make smartphones unnecessary for accessing the virtual world.
In a virtual reality kit, the headset is the most vital part. It’s a device similar to a thick pair of glasses that goes over your eyes. The cheaper quality headsets use a smartphone clipped to their front, whereas the expensive and higher quality headset needs to be connected to the computer to run apps and games. Virtual headsets enhance your stimulated experience of being in another world by requiring a good quality pair of headphones and other optional accessories from hand controller to treadmills. Hand controllers translate real-world gestures into whatever game or application you are using.
These virtual reality devices will have their app stores to browse and download games and apps. You will be able to access these stores through the device and on the computer.
Artificial intelligence Voice Assistants
Artificial intelligence is a technology that might replace smartphones. It will move beyond just being part of the cell phone we use daily to render them obsolete. According to an estimate, by 2020, 50 % of the searches will be conducted by voice or image. In the future, this technology will be the primary way to Google your questions, schedule appointments, and take notes.
Future intelligent assistants,i.e., versions of Siri, Alexa, or Cortana, will learn what we want to do and know. Uldrich predicts that personal gadgets might be able to study our eye movements to make predictions. Suppose you stare at something for seconds. It will suggest information according to our needs. AI technology is becoming popular due to consumer demand for seamless, effective, and enjoyable experiences. Wearables might respond to your voice, enabling device-less interactions without requiring you to pick your smartphone. For example, you will be able to save the time you spend typing and searching a question by commanding your devices to get you the answer.
These are prospective technologies that might replace smartphones shortly. Smartphones serve as hosts for these emerging technologies, which other technologies will gradually replace. As the fourth wave of innovation progresses, other devices may replace smartphones that will be more efficient, immersive, and effective.
