By 2027, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and quantum computing will reshape industries and daily life. This article explores 17 key ways technology is expected to change the world, providing insight into trends that will impact healthcare, education, business, the environment, and more.
Innovation plays a vital role in shaping the future of society and driving global economic growth—two central priorities for the World Economic Forum. To advance these goals, the Forum launched its Technology Pioneers community in 2000.
This exclusive group includes early- to growth-stage companies from across the globe that are developing and deploying cutting-edge technologies with the potential to transform industries and impact both business and society at large.
The program empowers the next generation of innovators, giving them a platform to help solve critical global challenges and contribute insights into the future of technology and innovation. Each year, the Forum selects a new cohort of Technology Pioneers, integrating them into its initiatives, events, and thought-leadership platforms.
In 2022, we asked members of this cohort to share their perspectives on how technology will reshape the world over the next five years. Their predictions touch on the evolution of advanced technologies like Web3, quantum computing, smart energy grids, and on-demand manufacturing—offering a glimpse into what’s next for our rapidly changing world.
Introduction: Are You Ready for the Next Tech Leap?
The pace of technological advancement is accelerating faster than at any point in human history. Just five years ago, AI chatbots were niche tools; now they support millions of users daily. In 2023, over $1.6 trillion was invested globally in digital transformation initiatives—a number expected to double by 2027.
So, what does the near future hold? This article outlines 17 powerful ways technology is set to reshape the world by 2027, offering a glimpse into what’s next—and how it could affect you, your business, and society at large.
1. Artificial Intelligence Will Power Most Industries
AI will become central to decision-making, customer service, logistics, and content creation. Tools like ChatGPT and AI-driven analytics platforms will automate:
- Legal document drafting
- Personalized marketing
- Medical diagnoses
- Predictive maintenance in manufacturing
Stat: AI could add $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030 (PwC).
2. Quantum Computing Will Revolutionize Data Processing
By 2027, quantum computing could outperform classical computers in solving complex problems, especially in:
- Cryptography
- Climate modeling
- Drug discovery
- Financial forecasting
Key player: IBM and Google are racing toward quantum supremacy.
3. Healthcare Will Become Predictive and Personalized
Expect AI-assisted diagnostics, wearable biosensors, and genome editing to revolutionize health:
- Remote patient monitoring will be common
- AI will predict disease risk years in advance
- CRISPR will enable gene therapy breakthroughs
4. Augmented and Virtual Reality Will Redefine Experiences
From virtual training simulations to immersive entertainment:
- AR/VR headsets will replace screens for many users
- Metaverse applications will enhance remote collaboration
- VR classrooms will become part of mainstream education
5. Autonomous Vehicles Will Become Mainstream
Self-driving technology will expand beyond cars to:
- Delivery drones
- Autonomous trucks
- Smart public transport
Stat: 70% of new vehicles may have autonomous features by 2027.
6. 5G and 6G Will Enable Real-Time Everything
With 5G rolling out globally and 6G in development, we’ll see:
- Lightning-fast connectivity
- Remote surgery and smart factories
- Ultra-low latency gaming and streaming
7. Smart Cities Will Reshape Urban Living
Cities will use AI, IoT, and big data for:
- Traffic and energy optimization
- Smart lighting and waste systems
- Enhanced public safety with surveillance AI
8. Blockchain Will Move Beyond Crypto
Blockchain applications will expand into:
- Secure digital identity systems
- Supply chain tracking
- Transparent voting systems
- Decentralized finance (DeFi)
9. Robotics Will Become Human-Like and Versatile
Advanced robots will work in:
- Elder care and rehabilitation
- Construction and agriculture
- Restaurants and customer service
Stat: The global robotics market is expected to exceed $150 billion by 2027.
10. Space Technology Will Drive New Frontiers
- Commercial space tourism will rise
- Satellite networks (like Starlink) will offer global internet
- Lunar and Mars missions will progress toward colonization
11. EdTech Will Democratize Global Learning
Digital learning platforms will:
- Offer AI-driven tutoring
- Provide VR-based field trips
- Deliver high-quality education in underserved regions
12. Cybersecurity Will Become Hyper-Automated
AI will help defend against:
- Zero-day attacks
- Phishing and ransomware
- Identity theft and deepfakes
Organizations will adopt zero-trust architectures as standard.
13. Sustainable Tech Will Fight Climate Change
Expect green tech innovations like:
- AI-optimized renewable energy grids
- Carbon capture systems
- Precision agriculture powered by drones
14. The Creator Economy Will Expand with AI Tools
With tools like AI video generators and voice clones:
- Individuals will become media producers
- Brands will personalize content at scale
- Influencer marketing will become algorithm-driven
15. Biotech Will Extend Human Lifespan
Technologies will improve longevity through:
- Advanced organ regeneration
- Anti-aging drugs
- AI-driven personalized nutrition
16. Digital Twins Will Transform Manufacturing and Construction
Digital twins—virtual models of physical systems—will:
- Cut costs
- Improve design testing
- Enable predictive maintenance
17. Ethics and Regulation Will Shape Tech’s Impact
As technology advances, so must our values. We’ll see:
- Global AI ethics frameworks
- Stricter data privacy regulations
- Oversight on autonomous systems and deepfakes
FAQs
1. What will be the biggest tech change by 2027?
AI’s integration into nearly every industry will likely be the most transformative.
2. Will robots replace human jobs?
Some jobs will be automated, but new roles will also emerge, requiring digital and analytical skills.
3. Is 6G really coming by 2027?
Research is underway, and early-stage 6G trials are expected by 2027, with broader adoption after 2030.
4. How will tech improve healthcare?
AI, wearables, and gene editing will allow early diagnosis, tailored treatments, and real-time patient monitoring.
5. What are digital twins used for?
They’re virtual replicas of physical systems used in design, engineering, and maintenance.
6. Is the metaverse still relevant?
Yes, but it’s evolving toward practical applications in education, training, and remote collaboration.
Conclusion
By 2027, technology will be more than a support tool—it will be the engine of transformation in every area of life. From healthcare and education to space exploration and sustainability, the future is being built now.
To thrive in the tech-driven world ahead, individuals and businesses must stay informed, adaptable, and ready to embrace change. The question isn’t if technology will change our world—it’s how prepared you’ll be when it does.