Predicting the net in 2020

Written by Gary Hides   

By 2020, the Internet could reach the far ends of the world, a population of Luddites could refuse to adopt new technology and choose to disconnect from the Internet, and humans could become the pets of robots.

By 2020, most mobile networks will provide 1-gigabit-per-second- minimum speed, anywhere, anytime

A study commissioned by the Pew Internet & American Life Project with Elon University , found that 742 technology experts from around the world expect Internet access to broaden and become widespread in developing countries. 

The Matrix?

But the experts disagree on how the Internet might influence our lives: Of the 742 respondents, 58 percent are concerned that extremist "Refuseniks" or "Luddites" could become disenchanted with technology and commit terrorist acts against it. And 42 percent fear that humans could lose control of technology, potentially in much the same manner as in the movie "The Matrix." 

Upwardly mobile

Sci Fi plots aside, the report does predict that the use of the mobile web will continue grow and may eventually become mainstream. Louis Nauges, president of Microcost , a French information technology firm, predicts that mobile devices will be at the forefront. 'Mobile internet will be dominant,' he explained. 'By 2020, most mobile networks will provide 1-gigabit-per-second-minimum speed, anywhere, anytime.' 

The report reflects how the Internet has dramatically reshaped the way people interact, as more and more people connect to high-speed Internet services. Nowadays, Internet users can use instant messages to connect with a customer service representative, or buy, sell and rent virtual homes online. But the question is: how much further will these trends go?

The world market 

Experts were given seven scenarios, asked to agree or disagree, and offer their reasons. In one, they discussed whether a worldwide network could become interoperable and cheap, as well as whether the Internet could pave the way for a flat economy, so that all countries could be connected and improve trade and communications. Most were optimistic, though they expressed concerns that corporations and government policies could stifle progress.

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