Technology can be both good and bad, depending on who you ask and how you look at it. The negative side of technology has eliminated a lot of jobs and some would even say has made people lazier. However, the positive side of technology has saved lives and has made day to day life more efficient.

Either way you look at it, technology has made both positive and negative impacts on the world we live in. It’s even arguable that technology has had more of a positive impact on certain areas than others. Here are three areas in which technology has been more of a pro than a con.

#1: Consumer Technology

Consumer technology (consumer tech) is the type of technology that the majority of people are the most familiar with. This is technology that is intended for use by the general public, as opposed to technology that’s meant for use by commercial sectors, the government, or the military. Some of the most popular consumer tech companies include:

• Apple
• Google
• Samsung
• Tesla

The Internet of Things (IoT)

Arguably, the most popular consumer tech device is the smartphone. Phones have come a long way since they were first invented, and now phones are used for so much more than making a simple phone call. They’re used for video calls, text messaging, taking pictures, accessing the internet, and so much more. They’re also widely used for controlling IoT devices.

IoT devices are devices that connect to the internet and can be controlled remotely. These are also known as smart devices, or more specifically, smart home devices. Probably the biggest impact on consumer technology is the ability to create a “smart home” by using devices to control certain functions— all of which can be controlled remotely with a smartphone. Smart home appliances, smart locks and cameras, and smart thermostats are just some of the examples of IoT devices that have made life more convenient and efficient.

There’s also the entertainment side of IoT devices. Devices that use augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have taken video games to a new level.

#2: Healthcare Technology

Technological advancements in the medical field use many of the same processes as consumer tech, even though this is a commercial industry. This is clearly seen with telemedicine, which became even more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine not only allowed people to have their doctor’s appointments right from their homes, but it also allowed those who didn’t have access to a local doctor to receive healthcare.

Machine Learning (ML)

Machine learning is a form of artificial intelligence that learns from the data it receives, eliminating the need for (near) future programming. When it comes to healthcare, ML has been helpful in aiding doctors in diagnosing cancer and other diseases. ML can analyze and learn a patient’s previous scans, screenings, and tests to help doctors make a more accurate diagnosis. It can also analyze a relative’s medical conditions to help doctors in the same way.

This is a good example of how new technologies aren’t replacing doctors or other workers. There still needs to be some level of human knowledge and interaction required to provide the best possible care for patients.

#3: Industrial Technology

Industrial technology improves the productivity and safety of industrial processes, including construction, engineering, and manufacturing. It makes production easier and more efficient. This is another industry where technology is used more of an aid to— rather than a replacement for— human workers.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The simplest definition of AI is “intelligence demonstrated by machines”. This is why machine learning is considered to be a subset of AI, and when it comes to the production industry, AI has really made a positive impact. Literally, every other industry that uses technology relies on proper manufacturing for tech devices to work properly, and AI has helped in the form of:

• Equipment predictive maintenance and failure
• Inventory management
• Quality checks
• Supply-chain management

This and other industrial technologies, such as 3D printing, dispensing, heat staking, and impregnation have truly revolutionized the production process.

No matter what area of life you’re looking at, technology can be both good and bad— depending on how it’s used. Overall, the main goal of all of these technological advancements is to make life easier, whether that means increasing production or increasing efficiency.

It’s safe to say that technological advancements aren’t going to slow down anytime soon, so it’s best to get used to the idea of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the internet of things as a part of common language. Hopefully, the goal will continue to be creating new technologies that help save lives, improve efficiency, and provide a better overall experience for everyone.