In 2022, the desire for joy, wonder, and amazement remained a universal constant, and people anticipate similar experiences that create an emotional connection or “kando” in 2023. These are some of the main technology trends identified by Sony Middle East & Africa, which has seen significant growth in the Middle East in 2022. Sony has been supporting the region’s expanding media, entertainment, and gaming industry by providing improved services and products.
Joebin Joejoe, Deputy Managing Director at Sony Middle East and Africa said “We are increasingly witnessing people’s offline lives and emotions becoming deeply intertwined with their digital lives. At Sony, we believe technology is a tool to add more value and opportunity for a richer, more emotional life – and we will be focused on delivering enhanced experiences through emerging technologies in 2023.”
Sony has identified three key trends that are set to dominate the digital landscape in 2023.
Networks are rapidly expanding into an interactive entertainment space that delivers live experiences while also providing a social element, in the form of the metaverse. Sony views the rise of the metaverse from a less dystopian perspective in 2023 and anticipates the rise of a social and live network space where games, music, movies, and anime intersect. Mocopi, Sony’s wearable motion-tracking system makes the metaverse more engaging and fun. A PoC (proof of concept) is being conducted by Sony with English Premier League football club Manchester City to realise the next generation of online fan communities and engagement by experiencing metaverse content as if they were in Etihad Stadium. Fans can create their customisable avatars, connect with millions of fans across the globe, and access various services to increase engagement.
2. Emergence of adaptive and generative AI
In 2023, the use of cutting-edge AI technology is expected to become increasingly popular, particularly Adaptive AI and Generative AI. Traditional AI can only analyze picture elements like colour, contrast, and clarity individually, and can only enhance picture elements to a certain degree. However, our perception of the world is based on a variety of information that comes from our eyes and ears and is processed by our brains. For instance, Sony’s Alpha 7RV mirrorless camera utilizes advanced AI focusing technology that can accurately detect not only human faces, but also birds, animals, and insects. Additionally, Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR™ can cross-analyze hundreds of thousands of elements simultaneously, resulting in a more immersive and realistic experience. Moreover, Sony’s new electric vehicle, Afeela, will incorporate AI, virtual reality, and augmented reality technologies to create an interactive relationship where people can experience the sensation of interactive mobility by utilizing sensing and AI technologies.
3. 3D Optical Technology
In the upcoming years, the market for 3D animation and the content will expand more. Despite recent advances in 3D optical technology, the adoption rate and application possibilities for 3D optical displays were constrained by the requirement for 3D spectacles or exact viewing angles. With the help of Sony’s Spatial Reality Display (SR Display) technology, specially created 3D content may be viewed with the unaided eye without the use of special goggles or headsets. Medical imaging and product designs can be reproduced more realistically thanks to SR Display, which gives viewers a sense of presence and allows them to see the depth, texture, and look of the object.
