In 1989, the movie Back to the Future Part II was released. In the film, Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, travels from 1985 to the year 2015. This envisioned future showcased flying cars, hoverboards, and robots that walked dogs—a world seemingly far more advanced than our reality in 2024. While our current world may not outwardly appear vastly different from 2004, significant advancements have occurred behind the scenes, making our society more advanced than it might initially seem.

I recently had the privilege of speaking with Darryl Stevens founder & CEO of DIGITECH Web Design as well as someone who is educated in this area. When I asked Darryl “What are the major advances in technology that is not well known to the public?” This is what he had to say:

Quantum Dot Solar Cells

Quantum dot solar cells represent a leap in photovoltaic technology. Unlike traditional solar cells, they use nanoscale semiconductor particles that can be tuned to absorb different wavelengths of light, potentially increasing efficiency and reducing costs.

This technology could revolutionize the solar energy industry by making solar power more affordable and efficient, leading to broader adoption of renewable energy sources.

AI-Driven Drug Discovery

Artificial intelligence is being used to accelerate the process of drug discovery. By analyzing vast amounts of data and predicting how different compounds will interact with biological targets, AI can identify promising drug candidates more quickly and accurately than traditional methods.

This technology has the potential to bring new treatments to market faster and at lower costs, significantly benefiting global health.

Neuromorphic Computing

Neuromorphic computing involves designing computer systems that mimic the structure and function of the human brain. This approach aims to create more efficient and powerful computing architectures capable of advanced learning and pattern recognition.

Neuromorphic computing could lead to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and machine learning, enabling more sophisticated applications in areas such as robotics, autonomous systems, and cognitive computing.

Advanced Bioprinting

Bioprinting technology has advanced to the point where it can create complex tissue structures using living cells. This technology holds the promise of printing organs and tissues for transplantation and research.

The ability to bioprint organs could address the shortage of donor organs and transform medical research by providing more accurate models for studying diseases and testing treatments.

Metamaterials

Metamaterials are engineered materials with properties not found in nature. They can manipulate electromagnetic waves in novel ways, leading to applications such as invisibility cloaks, advanced lenses, and improved antennas.

Metamaterials could revolutionize industries ranging from telecommunications to defense, providing new capabilities and enhancing existing technologies.

These under-the-radar technological advancements have the potential to transform various industries and improve our daily lives. Staying informed about such innovations can help businesses and individuals anticipate future trends and opportunities.

I was particularly intrigued by his detailed response, especially regarding neuromorphic computing and metamaterials. Neuromorphic computing piqued my interest as I wondered if it could help AI become more creative and capable of independent thought, rather than merely serving as a tool that stores vast amounts of information. When Darryl mentioned metamaterials, my immediate thought was, “These must be used in the military.” Darryl kindly addressed these thoughts in his response.

Neuromorphic Computing:

Your understanding of neuromorphic computing is indeed correct. This cutting-edge technology aims to emulate the architecture and functioning of the human brain, utilizing artificial neurons and synapses to create more efficient and powerful computing systems. The potential for neuromorphic computing to enhance AI capabilities is significant.

Creativity and Analytical Skills in AI:

One of the key advantages of neuromorphic computing is its ability to process information in a manner similar to the human brain, which includes the capacity for learning, adaptation, and potentially, creativity. Traditional AI systems, as you mentioned, often function as advanced search engines, relying on pre-programmed algorithms to deliver information and perform tasks. They lack the inherent problem-solving abilities and creative thinking that characterize human intelligence.

With neuromorphic computing, AI systems could become more adept at recognizing patterns, making inferences, and generating innovative solutions. This is because these systems can process and integrate sensory data, much like the human brain, allowing for more complex and nuanced decision-making. An AI capable of both analytical thinking and creativity would indeed be revolutionary, providing valuable insights and perspectives that go beyond mere data retrieval.

Potential Applications:

Neuromorphic AI could be particularly beneficial in fields that require high levels of creativity and problem-solving, such as art, music, scientific research, and even strategic business planning. By developing AI with more human-like cognitive abilities, we could unlock new possibilities for innovation and efficiency across various industries.

Metamaterials:

Metamaterials are another fascinating area of technological advancement. These engineered materials have properties not found in naturally occurring substances, allowing them to manipulate electromagnetic waves in unique ways. Your observation about their potential military applications is spot-on.

Military and Beyond:

Indeed, metamaterials can be utilized to create advanced cloaking devices, stealth technology, and highly efficient antennas. These capabilities offer significant advantages in defense and communications. However, the potential applications of metamaterials extend far beyond the military.

Transformative Impact:

Just as Einstein’s E=MC² revolutionized physics and had far-reaching implications, metamaterials could similarly transform various fields. In addition to military uses, they could lead to breakthroughs in medical imaging, wireless communication, and energy harvesting. For example, metamaterials could improve MRI machines’ resolution, enable more efficient wireless charging of devices, and even create new forms of renewable energy capture.

Future Advancements:

The transformative potential of metamaterials lies in their ability to bend and manipulate light, sound, and other waves in ways previously thought impossible. As research and development continue, we may see applications that significantly enhance our technological capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in medicine, communication, and beyond.

In conclusion, both neuromorphic computing and metamaterials hold immense promise for the future. Neuromorphic computing could lead to AI systems with enhanced creativity and problem-solving abilities, while metamaterials could drive significant advancements across multiple industries. These technologies, still in their relative infancy, have the potential to shape the future in ways we can only begin to imagine.