Are We Reaching the Peak of AI Hype? A Look Ahead to 2025
You can tell we’ve hit a hype saturation point when it’s hard to hear the words “artificial intelligence” (AI) without also hearing the audible groan that follows. After two years of hype around generative AI, there are clear signals that we’re entering the low that follows the high – when the gap between expectation and reality becomes evident.
This cycle isn’t new. History is full of seemingly false starts, where new technology burns bright and fizzles quickly. However, sometimes these apparent failures lay the groundwork for transformative advancements, even if it takes five to ten years to see their full impact.
With that long-term view in mind, here are some key signals to watch in 2025 as we consider the future of technology for small businesses, advisors, and communities worldwide.
Agentic AI: From Insights to Action
Generative AI might be nearing its saturation point, but “agentic AI” – AI that can take action – hasn’t had its moment yet.
Imagine digital assistants functioning like autonomous employees, performing tasks and assisting customers without human intervention. Self-driving cars like Waymo offer a glimpse into this concept, making decisions in real time. Similarly, businesses might soon see AI autonomously handling fraud detection, customer queries, or inventory management.
As this field evolves, balancing the promise of agentic AI with ethical and legal considerations will be pivotal. The potential is immense, but so is the responsibility to implement it thoughtfully.
Ambient Computing: The Next Frontier
The rise of wearables and smart devices is paving the way for ambient computing – technology that seamlessly integrates into our environment.
From smart glasses like Meta’s Ray-Ban collaboration to smart rings and watches, devices are becoming more intuitive and context-aware. Imagine shop owners interacting with products through smart glasses or virtual avatars providing real-time sales insights.
As battery and display technologies improve, it’s only a matter of time before everyday objects incorporate AI and AR features, transforming how businesses operate.
Crypto and Blockchain: Quiet Progress
Despite skepticism, blockchain technology continues to develop and show promise. Central banks are experimenting with digital currencies (CBDCs), like China’s Digital Yuan and The Bahamas’ Sand Dollar, to improve cross-border payments.
Stablecoins and blockchain-based solutions are also emerging for non-financial use cases, such as decentralized digital identity and verifiable ownership of digital assets. These advancements could provide small businesses with tools for securely managing intellectual property or combating counterfeit goods.
Looking Beyond the Short Term
Roy Amara, a futurist, once said, “We overestimate the impact of technology in the short term and underestimate its long-term consequences.”
As we move into 2025, it’s essential to approach technological advancements with patience and perspective. While some innovations might not dominate headlines this year, they could define the decade ahead.
Stay tuned for a dynamic period of growth, adaptation, and transformation.
What trends are you most excited about in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
