TORONTO – From smartphones that understand emotions to high tech gloves that guide users through everyday tasks, autonomous and mood-predictive technology could soon play a bigger role in people’s everyday lives, according to an annual report by Ericsson.
The 10 Hot Consumer Trends 2019 is based on Ericsson ConsumerLab’s global research activities over more than 23 years, and draws on data from an online survey in October 2018 of advanced internet users in 10 influential cities across the world.
According to the report, the top consumer trends for 2019 and beyond are:
1. Awareables
More than 60% of virtual assistant users think devices that understand our moods will be mainstream in three years.
2. Smart quarrels
Over 65% of virtual assistant users think smart speakers will argue like family members in three years.
3. Spying apps
Over 45% of consumers think apps collect data about them even when they don’t use the app.
4. Enforced agreement
Always having to accept data collection cookies annoys 51% of consumers.
5. Internet of skills
More than 50% of AR or VR users want apps, glasses and gloves that give virtual guidance for practical, everyday tasks such as cooking or carrying out repairs.
6. Zero-touch consumption
Around half of virtual assistant users want automated bills and subscriptions, as well as self-restocking household supplies.
7. Mental obesity
Approximately one third (31%) of consumers soon expect to go to ‘mind gyms’ to practice thinking, as everyday decision-making becomes increasingly automated.
8. Eco Me
39% of consumers want an eco-watch that can measure their carbon footprint.
9. My digital twin
48% of AR or VR users want online avatars that mimic them exactly, so that they can be in two places at once.
10. 5G automates society
Around 20% of smartphone users believe 5G will better connect IoT devices, such as household appliances and utility meters.
“Imagine a smartphone that not only knows what you do but also knows who you are”, said Ericsson ConsumerLab head of research agenda Dr. Michael Björn, in the report’s news release. “Today, artificial intelligence can understand your personality just by looking into your eyes. It’s clear that technology adopters see a future where our devices know us better than we know them.”
