What defines new and emerging technologies?

New and emerging technologies are typically characterized as those that are in the early stages of development or are expected to be fully realized and adopted in the near future, usually defined as within the next 5 to 10 years. These technologies are often innovative, transformative, and hold the potential to change industries, create new markets, or enhance existing processes. They are distinguished from established technologies that are already widely used and have reached a level of maturity in their respective fields.

The timeframe of 5 to 10 years is important because it captures the essence of technologies that are not yet mainstream but are on the verge of becoming significant. This period allows for the development, testing, and commercialization of ideas that can lead to breakthroughs in various sectors, including information technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and more. Emerging technologies often undergo rapid changes and advancements during this phase, which differentiates them robustly from outdated, established, or immediately available technologies.