The dominant trend of 2025 is the transition of Artificial Intelligence from a simple cloud functionality to a capability integrated directly into hardware. New flagship products (smartphones, laptops) are embedding increasingly powerful AI chips for local processing. This "Embedded AI" enables faster and more personalized features, ranging from real-time photo enhancement to productivity tool optimization. Voice assistants are evolving from simple responders to personal managers capable of planning complex days and controlling an ecosystem of connected objects. Human-machine interaction is becoming more natural, marking the future of consumer technology.
The wearables market continues to diversify, with a marked focus on health and well-being in a more discreet manner. While smartwatches remain popular, new formats like smart health rings are gaining ground. These pieces of jewelry integrate sophisticated sensors to monitor sleep, stress levels, and physical activity with increased discretion. Innovation is also found in real-time translating earbuds or smart heated clothing. These gadgets integrate seamlessly into daily life, allowing users to take care of themselves without compromising aesthetics or portability, illustrating the successful fusion of technology and lifestyle.
The growing demand for computing power, particularly due to generative AI and immersive environments, puts considerable pressure on global infrastructure. Power supply constraints, the vulnerability of physical networks, and the explosion in compute demand create major deployment challenges. The stake is twofold: ensuring the scalability of data centers (for large AI models) and the development of Edge Computing for less power-hungry devices.
Distributed Cloud and Edge Computing are unavoidable trends. Edge computing is expected to reach a market of $100 billion by 2025. In parallel, the Internet of Behaviors (IoB) is booming. IoB uses data collected by connected devices (IoT) to analyze and influence human behavior. For example, logistics companies use it to optimize driver safety by tracking parameters like speed and braking.
Global competition for mastery of critical technologies is intensifying. Nations and companies are investing in sovereign infrastructure, localized chip manufacturing (like efforts to etch at 1.6 nm), and financing strategic initiatives (quantum labs). This quest for technological self-sufficiency aims to reduce exposure to geopolitical risks and to own the next wave of value creation.
