There has been a sharp increase in technology and devices designed to make our lives simpler, faster and more productive in recent years.

Industry 4.0 is taking the digital revolution of the late 1900s one step further. It combines cyber-physical systems with the power of the internet of things (IoT) to automate computerised decision-making and enhance efficiency. As a result, intelligent technology has surpassed the simple tools and gadgets people enjoy using every day. It has become a driving force for innovation and problem-solving for businesses worldwide.

The first generation of ‘smart’ technology products provided enhanced connectivity. This allowed people to stream video on smart televisions or communicate wirelessly between devices. However, the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has changed this. Our devices now do more than simply talk to each other. They collect and interpret data to inform the user experience and automate processes that would typically require human guidance.

From watches to phones, building controls to medical equipment, we are heading towards a ‘smarter’ world at lightning speed. So, in 2022 and beyond, technology will continue to evolve and improve. Its growing capabilities will deliver personalised, mechanised solutions that optimise functions and enhance our day-to-day lives.

The pandemic has significantly impacted global technology trends, with lockdowns contributing to heightened activity within the consumer electronics industry.

In the first half of 2021, the global consumer electronics market (excluding North America) grew by 18%. Demand for games consoles, smart televisions and other entertainment devices drove this increase. It reflected pandemic-related behavioural changes and consumers’ growing expectations for premium electronics. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, the public is also more conscious of their health and the limitations of our health services than ever before. Wearable technology such as smartwatches — which can remotely monitor and record physical health data — is, thus, becoming increasingly appealing.

As more and more businesses embrace remote working models, employees are enhancing their homes with innovative home technology, too. Demand for devices such as mobile stereo headsets and headphones spiked in the wake of lockdowns. Organisations are also embarking on digital transformation to secure online networks and optimise energy efficiency in modern offices.

The future of the electric vehicle market also looks bright. Governments face global pressure to reduce carbon emissions. Consequently, major carmakers like Bentley, Volkswagen and Audi have pledged to drop fossil fuel cars from their ranges by 2030. And despite the pandemic-related semiconductor shortage that crippled the automotive industry, UK electric vehicle sales jumped 186% in 2020.

In a digital world, technology is embedded in everyday objects. Ubiquitous computing connects devices through continuous networks of sensors and servers. All of these must be carefully designed and produced by electronics manufacturers. As a result, the future of electrical engineering will depend on the industry’s ability to deliver these advanced systems and equipment. This means addressing both the technical and the logistical considerations involved.

From smart grids to intelligent lighting, IoT has the potential to revolutionise the way we live. Technology already permeates so much of our lives. Local governments are therefore investing in ‘smart cities’ that will harness data collected through the IoT and cloud-based technology. The aim is to tackle social issues and improve urban life, sustainability and transport. However, the IoT will also be essential to developing new electronics.

Brexit, the pandemic and labour shortages have impacted supply chains. They have also threatened to stunt the industry’s ability to keep up with ever-increasing demand. Embracing IoT, however, can streamline processes and provide accurate real-time data to mitigate supply chain disruption. It can also improve the overall quality of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other core components within electronics.

In addition, sustainability is a core focus for businesses across sectors in 2022. Developments in AI and ML will therefore be crucial to ensuring that systems operate with the minimum energy output.

Investing in robotics will also be crucial for electronics manufacturing services providers. Examples range from remotely controlled wire cutters to industrial robots performing monotonous tasks in factories. While the industry focuses on training the next generation of engineers, adopting robotics will reduce the likelihood of human error. Such errors could otherwise affect manufacturers’ ability to keep delivering high-quality electronics products at scale.

EC Electronics is a sustainable contract manufacturer producing PCB assemblies, cable assemblies and electronics box builds for IoT products such as wearables and sports technology. Get in touch to learn more about our product realisation and electronic design and manufacturing services.