By: Todd Smekens
BLOG – As Uber and Airbnb have transformed the automotive and hospitality industry, we are relying more on technology to address our every need. Soon, reliable staples in modern society like cash and landlines could quickly become obsolete. As our technology rapidly evolves and changes our world, much of our modern tech is already on its way out. Here’s a look at the tools, gadgets and electronics that may not be in our digital world tomorrow.
Security Systems
Home security systems were once considered a modern marvel where homeowners could keep their property and loved ones safe. Although the need for security systems probably won’t change anytime soon, how we use them will. Today’s modern security systems now offer wire-free security cameras, meaning they’re easier to install ourselves and have less cords and wires to mess with. These DIY systems give homeowners more control and cost-effective alternatives to expensive security packages.
MP3 Players
When MP3 technology was developed during the 80s and 90s, it quickly became a standard file type for online music downloads. MP3 players and iPods quickly took over the marketplace, but with the rapid rise of technology like smartphones and tablets that stream music, MP3 players are nearly obsolete.
In fact, the creators of the MP3, the Fraunhofer Institute of Integrated Circuits, has officially dropped ownership of it and have declared it dead. They effectively terminated their licensing program for MP3-related patents and no longer see the technology as a viable and growing need in the marketplace.
Wires, cords and cables
Wires and cords like USB cables and telephone cords changed how we connected to the world from getting our computers online during the dial-up days. And we can already see how wires can be replaced altogether whenever we log on to a wireless internet provider or make a phone call.
Our technology is quickly adapting to wireless technology including its ability to charge. The iPhone X, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus can wirelessly charge so users can worry less about running out of power and finding a place to recharge. Services like Aircharge already house wireless charging stations at McDonalds and Starbucks throughout the UK among other locations. They partnered with Xentris to bring the same wireless charging technology to the United States.
Digital cameras
You would be hard-pressed not to find a traveler just 10 years ago with a digital camera in hand. But today, this modern technology is swiftly making an exit in favor of digital cameras built right into our smartphones and tablets. The Galaxy Note 8, iPhone 8Plus and Google Pixel 2 are some of the best smartphones on the market with sharp color and auto-focus technology.
Passwords
According to TechCrunch, the average consumer uses 25 or more sites and apps that rely on passwords. This can lead to lazy password practices like reusing the same easy password over and over and open the door to security breaches. Passwords are already starting to fall to the wayside in favor of biometric sensors. Soon we may do everything from unlocking our smartphones to the front door of our home with a selfie or our eyes to control our technology.
Although some people may feel technology is evolving too rapidly to keep up with, the important thing to remember is always keeping your current technology’s systems and patches up to date. When we refuse to update our old technology, security breaches can occur and can also make our devices obsolete.
