3M reveals its take on top trends in science, technology and design via 3M Futures
Published on March 22, 2022
- 3M introduces new platform called 3M Futures which explores five cutting-edge science and technology trends impacting the world today — and their implications for tomorrow.
- 3M scientists, engineers, designers, and experts share and explore key topics within each trend, offering their unique perspectives and commentary.
- 3M releases Futures Survey: A global survey conducted across 11 countries, the study explores perceptions and expectations of science and technological innovation — and how individuals view its impact in their lives.
3M is launching 3M Futures, a new platform showcasing five global science and technology trends shaping the world today — and the future of tomorrow. The platform explores each topic alongside commentary and perspectives from 3M experts, scientists, engineers and designers at the forefront of their fields. 3M Futures also features data from global, third-party research conducted across 11 countries to understand perceptions of these top science, technology and design trends.
Mckinsey Analytics released a report from December 2021 mentioning that India is one of the leading adopters of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among emerging economies. Similarly, the market for Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in India is slated to grow at a CAGR of 38.29% until 2027. Given the scenario, there is a huge potential for the application of technology in the day to day lives for Indians.
The 3M Futures topics for 2022 are:
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Wearables segment pushing the rate of adoption in India – Mixed reality is already changing the way we live, work and entertain — the metaverse is poised to change our perceptions of reality.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
National AI mission in India focuses on the use of AI to address the societal needs across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, mobility, smart cities – How artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionizing everything from entertainment to business but require conversations about broader implications and ethics.
Government of India is keen on transitioning from linear to circular economy through various policies such as Waste Management Rules, e-Waste Management Rules, Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, Metals Recycling Policy etc. – The circular economy is introducing innovation in material science and design while disrupting industry, ushering in a more sustainable future.
- The New Paradigm — A Pandemic Aware World
3M State of Science Index 2021 highlighted the fact that Indians are trusting science for recovery in a post pandemic environment- The pandemic has created a paradigm shift in how we interact. From telemedicine and health-conscious design to remote work, the new abnormal is here to stay.
- Equity — Through Science and Technology
With the pandemic, the world now recognizes that diversity can help science achieve more, including greater global collaboration between scientists, more innovative ideas, new and improves approaches to existing research techniques- The greatest innovation comes from diverse thinkers. Equity, representation and equal access to science and technology learning, like minority representation and STEM in youth, are paramount to solving the challenges of today — and tomorrow.
Ramesh Ramadurai, Managing Director of 3M India says “3M has successfully traversed emerging global mega-trends by introducing new products and solutions which help customers become more competitive. Great customer experiences are more important now than ever before. 3M Futures gives us an exciting glimpse of how 3M can help shape a new frontier, to reimagine what’s possible”.
Key findings include:
· Science and technology
Public health, humanitarian crises, extreme weather crises, a cure for Alzheimer’s and ecological disasters are seen as the top problems to focus on over the next 5 years.
· Mainstream Virtual Reality
Virtual reality is expected to be a normal part of our everyday lives sooner than other advancements, especially in gaming and entertainment.
· AI interest and concerns
The survey results showed that while people are excited about AI, many are concerned about data privacy and want more transparency on how the technology is being used in society.
· Sustainability: top environmental threats
Respondents feel single-use plastics are a bigger threat to the environment than fossil fuels and fast fashion.
· Real life vs. tech.
In the shadow of the pandemic, tech-driven innovations are being met with some resistance as many are trying to decrease tech in their life and seek in-person socialization and hobbies.
“Every day, 3Mers around the world are unlocking the next phase of what’s possible and exploring the latest trends in science and technology,” says Kevin Gilboe, head of 3M Design, International. “3M Futures is a great opportunity for us to showcase the broad ways 3M is helping to shape the future — developing, designing and engineering cutting-edge solutions within the most relevant global trends, while profiling the incredible talent across our company who are experts in their fields.”
“VR is opening up new dimensions to human interactions, giving access to hyper-real environments and enabling new business models. In India, we are focused on leveraging the local design talent pool to craft experiences in the virtual world that connects us to our customers in new and innovative ways.” says Blessen Phillip, Senior Design Manager of 3M India.
3M Experts
The expert contributors chosen to participate include an array of 3M scientists, engineers, designers and other leaders at the forefront of their industries. From artificial intelligence to equity, each is passionate about their field and has a personal interest in broad applications of the relevant technology and science.
3M Futures Survey
The 3M Futures Survey uncovers global perceptions of future technologies, with results from 11 countries: Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, UK, USA and South Korea. The survey uncovers what respondents believe future innovation should focus on across the globe and the ways they have — or have not — directly interacted with the technologies referenced across the five core trends.
Following its launch, 3M Futures will feature ongoing stories, VR demos and content throughout the year. Insights from the survey will inform exploration of future topics and content.
To download full 3M Futures survey data, including by country and infographic breakdowns, visit: 3M Futures Resource Center
3M Futures Survey Methodology
Global business intelligence company Morning Consult conducted research on behalf of 3M among an audience of n=22,001 Adults ages 18-64 from the US, UK, Mexico, Brazil, Canada, Germany, France, China, India, Japan, and South Korea between November 17- Dec. 18, 2021. The interviews were conducted online, and the data was balanced across gender, age, income, and region. Results from the survey have a margin of error of +/- 1%.
