Technology is fast paced and always changing. So, it’s no wonder keeping up with all the trending technology terms can be somewhat of a daunting task. Look no further! We have compiled a list of some of the top trending technology terms with a brief explanation of each one.
Open Source Software:
Open source software is code that can be shared publicly. It can also be modified and used by anyone for personal or commercial purposes without the fear of copyright infringement. In the past, open source has been avoided by many companies over support and security concerns. Today, with widespread adoption and support from large developers such as Google, Twitter and Adobe, these platforms are becoming a critical part of almost all large scale development projects.
The Cloud:
The cloud has become a buzzword that refers to storing and accessing resources, like data or programs, over the internet, rather on one's personal computer or company server. The term is a metaphor for the ‘cloud-like’ idea of what the internet could look like – a series of ‘floating files’ that are always accessible from anywhere.
Legacy Apps:
Legacy software or applications are existing technologies that are a part of large-scale systems. Due to their far-reaching integration, and level of complexity, legacy systems can be very difficult to change or replace, and sometimes require maintenance and support even if a newer application is available.
SEO:
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. It refers to a technique of improving how a website’s page ranks in the search results produced by search engines like Google and Yahoo! Search. The URL of the page, the title used for the page’s content, keywords, and the number and quality of links to external sites, are all factors that can contribute to improving a site's SEO.
The Internet of Things:
The Internet of Things refers to everyday objects, ‘things’, embedded with technology, which
allows it to connect with other ‘things’ via the internet, to achieve greater
value or services.
Wearable technology like the Apple Watch, refrigerators that allow you to connect with your phone, a
self-programing thermostat, and sport equipment that measure and record your performance, are just a
small sampling of the ‘internet of things’.
3D Printer:
A 3D printer is a printer-like device that creates three dimensional objects from a digital blueprint. While a traditional printer takes a digital file and prints a copy on paper, a 3D printer uses an additive process of stacking layers on top of each other to create a three dimensional object. The 3D object is usually made of plastic, but can be made using almost any material including metal, wax, or even cake icing!
Drones:
A drone is an unmanned, aerial vehicle that is used for personal, commercial, and military operations. Although they can range in size, the most common drone for personal use is toy-sized and often includes a camera. Aerial shots of your neighbourhood or aerial ‘selfies’ are popular uses for personal drones.
Drones are becoming more popular in the commercial world too. It may be common in the near future to see deliveries by drones. Farming and mining industries are already using drones to inspect crops or pipelines in remote locations.
Wearables:
Wearables are stylish, computer devices worn on the body. Some wearables can monitor vital signs like your heart rate, or can be used to monitor physical activity such as running, swimming or even flights of stairs taken. Wearables can also be synched with smartphones and personal computers to transfer data for a more detailed analysis of your daily activity. Some examples include smart watches, smart glasses, wristbands, headphones, and even jewellery and clothing.
Big Data:
Big Data refers to large the volumes of data that are being gathered by today’s technology. This data is constantly being collected and can include anything from personal information, to buying habits, to GPS locations. A large organization will use Big Data to improve its operations, predict sales or profits, and prescribe measures to reduce the chances of a crisis situation hurting the business.
Near Field Communication (NFC):
NFC or Near Field Communication is a data transfer technology that allows devices in close proximity to share data without an internet connection. For example, when you use the paypass feature on your credit card, or when you price check an item in a store, you are using NFC technology. Large companies are excited by the possibilities NFC opens up to their day-to-day business. NFC-enabled smartphones make it very easy for consumers to engage with products. They can purchase or simply ‘scan’ an item and immediately receive more details, a coupon or special offer. NFC technology makes information, promotions, purchases and the like, readily available in the palm the consumer’s hands.
We hope the above defined top trending tech terms will help you feel more confident about working on technology related projects, or simply help you to better understand the world of technology!
