What new technologies will shape 2021 and beyond?

We might look back and say we saw the future in 2020.

The shift to remote work, increased tech adoption and changing societal norms could spell a permanent before-and-after when it comes to the workforce, and COVID-19’s legacy will be one of both blatant inequities and forced ingenuity lasting beyond the emergence of a vaccine.

But of all the changes brought on by 2020, what’s going to stick? And, will those changes result in a better future for all?

In December 2020, Technology of the Future Month, Technical.ly is focusing extra reporting on the following questions: What technologies being developed now will influence how we live our lives and do our jobs in years to come? What infrastructure would be required for these technologies to become a reality? How will 2020’s many challenges impact society for the long term? What do futurists say our collective 2021 looks like? And what role are local universities are playing?

Some themes we might cover this month include 5G, quantum computing, CRISPR gene editing, surveillance tech, next-level AI, robotics, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, wearable tech and climate tech.

And some related stories we’ve published recently:

• How CRISPR research in Delaware can fight both COVID-19 and inequity in health outcomes
• George Mason University now has a fleet of 25 food delivery robots roaming on campus
• This Maryland accelerator is helping to turn clean energy tech into startups
• Where do you stand? 10 women debate tech topics like AI, innovation and ethics in healthcare
• High-tech surveillance amplifies police bias and overreach

Are you a policy expert we should talk to, or do you know of one? Is there a report we need to read to better explain this topic? Want to write a first-person guest post about your relevant experience, or to share some relevant resources? Let us know:

This editorial article is a part of Technology of the Future Month of Technical.ly's editorial calendar.