Technology Buzzwords: Demystifying the Jargon of the Digital Age

You likely hear terms like “blockchain,” “machine learning,” and “cloud computing” without considering their real meanings. But understanding these buzzwords can boost your confidence in tech discussions and how they affect our lives. Let us unpack these buzzwords, so you won’t have to hurriedly Google them the next time you have a meeting with the IT team. 

Blockchain 

Blockchain is the technology of a digital general ledger. It simply records transactions across computers, making that information resistant to change or hacking. In the structure of a chain, each block contains data, a timestamp, and a link to the last previous one. 

Many associate it with being a spine technology to such cryptocurrencies as Bitcoin. Its biggest feature is decentralization, so there is no single point of control. Blockchain makes the data more secure and trustworthy. 

Many companies are researching the implications of implementing blockchain for greater transparency and efficiency. This can have vast-reaching implications, particularly concerning logistics, health services, and finance. Knowing what blockchain represents can help you understand where digital transactions may be headed 

Artificial Intelligence 

“Artificial Intelligence” is a word we’ve all come across pretty frequently, but what does it mean? AI deals with the creation of machines that can think, or learn, in a manner very similar to human beings. AI systems apply algorithms to analyze information and make decisions, effectively executing a task that, in general, is conducted by human intelligence. 

AI is used now in everyday life. For example, digital assistants like Siri or Alexa help with everyday tasks. AI also gets incorporated in recommendation systems of platforms like Netflix and Spotify.  

AI can be relevant beyond simple tasks. It can go through huge amounts of data quickly, so insights are developed, and predictive accuracy becomes better.  

Ps: Thanks to you, Microsoft Copilot, for existing! 

PS: In case you’d love to learn a bit more in-depth about how Copilot can support you in becoming way more productive and looking like a superhuman in the eyes of your colleagues, check out eMazzanti’s Copilot masterclasses in our website’s “masterclass” area. 

The Internet of Things 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the ecosystem in which ordinary devices are connected to the Internet and can send and receive data. IoT devices can include smart thermostats, home security systems, or wearable fitness trackers. 

All the data that is collected by the IoT device is simultaneously being acted upon. Take the smart thermostat that tracks your heating preferences — when it has learned those preferences, it can automatically make adjustments. 

Security and privacy pose a big threat in IoT. Because most of the devices are involved in data collection, the data must be kept safe. Knowledge of IoT enables a better understanding of the smart technology that one uses each day. 

Big Data 

Big Data is used to represent large data sets. The sets originate from several sources, like social media, surface handles, online traffic, and flows, and sensors and are too big and too complex, for traditional processing software. 

Big Data analysis uncovers underlying patterns and trends, and is very helpful, since it assists a business in making very informed decisions. For instance, businesses use Big Data to understand customer behaviors, enabling companies to develop effective marketing strategies. The only challenge that exists around Big Data is proper and secure management and storage. 

Fully exploiting Big Data’s potential s requires the right tools and manpower skill sets. 

Machine Learning 

Machine learning is a sub-field of artificial intelligence. ML gives computers the ability to learn from data without being programmed specifically for that. So instead of following definite rules, ML lets devices find patterns in data. 

Practically, machine learning allows higher accuracy in such applications as image recognition and voice command systems. Most online services use ML to personalize their users’ experience. 

Machine learning is data intensive. 

The more the amount of data a machine learning model is exposed to, the better it becomes. Awareness of machine learning can lead to better use of new technologies. 

Misconceptions and Clarifications 

Here are some common confusions surrounding technology: 

Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality 

Virtual reality creates a reality that is entirely virtual. When using virtual reality space or a virtual reality application, you don’t see what happens around you in the “real” world; instead, VR transports you to another place. 

 AR, on the other hand, superimposes digital elements onto the real world. In the case of AR, I could be looking at my actual environment, but my vision would be altered or enhanced by digital images or information. The most popular example of an AR game is Pokémon Go, since you can see Pokémons in their real-world surroundings. 

You have to know these differences. Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are not. These terms have different applications and give their users very different experiences. 

Quantum Computing Misconceptions 

Quantum Computing might take on some very ethereal sounding notions, but there are some misconceptions that need to be explained. First things first — Quantum Computers are not beefed-up versions of regular, run-of-the-mill computers. But quantum computers operate in a fundamentally different way, because they use qubits. 

Qubits can exist in superposition, and quantum computers can execute problems much more efficiently than a traditional computer. This does not mean that they will replace the standard computers in every task, though. They are best at tasks related to cryptography and complex simulations. 

One other bogeyman that people often worry about is how quantum computers are going to break the current security systems in no time. Though there is much speculation about this, widespread use is still years away. Knowing this can calm frayed nerves. 

My Predictions on Future Technology Buzzwords 

While these changes bring technological breakthroughs, new buzzwords are being formed. Here are my predictions for the new legion of technology buzzwords: 

Quantum Internet: Utilizing quantum principles of computation, the quantum internet is going to change how people will send information. 

Bioinformatics: Another key term as we explore in-depth genetic research, bioinformatics represents the confluence of biology and data science, aimed at unlocking new medical breakthroughs.  

Edge AI: With the rise of the Internet of Things, algorithms are part of artificial intelligence and are processed on the devices themselves, instead of in centralized data centers. Hence, edge AI shall be the predominant term. 

Digital Twins: From manufacturing to healthcare, digital replicas are created for any physical entity or system where monitoring is done in real time. 

Now, these buzzwords will lead the future of technology, innovation, and change in our approach to the digital world. 

If you are interested in staying up to date with the latest technology trends, you can search LinkedIn to follow our technology expert, CEO Carl Mazzanti.