While the 21st century hasn’t brought us jetpacks and flying cars (yet), it has certainly delivered a world’s worth of interesting digital technologies. But as everything goes social and Web 2.0 becomes 3.0 – we investigate what trends are set to be big on the web in 2013.
- More people are online
The internet is reaching more people across the globe, with around 30 per cent of the planet’s population now thought to be online. Its reach is most effective across North America but other countries and regions are quickly catching up. More people are also using social media, with nearly three-quarters of respondents to a recent study claiming they web was an integral part of their everyday lives.
- People are accessing the web in different ways
The boom in smart, mobile devices has had a profound impact on the way the average person interacts with the internet. While the 20th century saw us trapped behind desktop computers, the 21st has seen us break free and interact with digital technology on the go. The smartphone market bloomed by nearly 40 per cent in 2012 and its growth looks to continue, if not expand – with more than 7 billion devices expected on the market by 2015.
Tablets have also seen exponential growth, with 67 million devices being shipped in 2011 and 248.6 million expected by 2015. Form factor plays a “crucial” role in the uptake of tablets, so we’re likely to see a range of different devices hit the market in 2013, perhaps utilising interesting new technologies like curved glass, 3D or transparency.
- Everything is social
Social media has let people carry traditionally-physical activities into the online world seamlessly. While the dominance of Facebook continues, newcomers like Pinterest are providing a more diverse offering.
Google+ began to make serious headway in the social arena during 2012 – outdoing the likes of Twitter and YouTube in terms of activity. It’s integration with Google’s other range of products means that the company will be investing more resources and effort into promoting it – meaning now might be the best time to get your foot in the door.
- We’re becoming voyeurs
As mobile devices get slicker and internet connection speeds grow quicker, our demand for rich media has become voracious. YouTube remains kind of video, with 72 hours worth being uploaded to its servers every minute. Marketers are keen to exploit this trend as well, with media-filled posts generating more likes and shares than those without.
- Semantic search
Google’s auto-complete feature has become like an old friend now and Facebook‘s recently-introduced Graph Search could be an indication of the quickening pace of semantic technologies in 2013. As search engines and computers begin to make increasingly complex connections, we’re likely to see a sea change in the way we interact with technology.
The future looks bright for the internet in 2013, with a host of exciting new developments awaiting those willing to try new things. However, trends are notoriously fickle and the next big thing could be waiting right around the corner.
This article was brought to you by Gerald Heneghan on behalf of PR Fire an online press release distributor and repository that offers a range of services for brands and journalists alike.
About Meghan
11 Days Left 
I’m always amazed when someone tells me they don’t use the internet. It seems vital to me!
Sheri recently posted..Recipe: Cranberry Orange Relish
It is amazing how much the internet has grown and changed as more and more people go online.
Kelly @ A Girl Worth Saving recently posted..Living Paleo on a Budget: Discount Grocers
the world of technology just keeps growing.
Maryann @ Matthew’s Puzzle recently posted..DIY Glitter Sunglasses
I agree tha tthese are all trends.
It is amazing how much communication has changed to the net.
I admit it . I’m sick of social media sometimes lol It’s completely taking over.
I have a love hate relationship with social media. I love how easy it is to keep in touch. I hate the time suck.
Rachel recently posted..Graeter’s Ice Cream Introduces a New Flavor #Review
Yup, yup, yup … nearly all of those apply to me! Does this mean I’m trendy?
great info on new trends. thanks so much for sharing.
Vanessa: the queen of swag ! recently posted..Find A Great Home on Apartments.com & #Giveaway #AptsWin
So true!
It’s amazing what you can do online these days.
Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy recently posted..See the Everglades with Wild Florida Airboat Rides
The internet is the future and that absolutely includes blogging and advertising too!
Marcie W. recently posted..Candace’s Corner – Tiny Love Review & Giveaway (3/15)
I don’t think I could function without the internet. I do so many thing on my computer daily!
Mellisa recently posted..Popular TV Shows you Might Have Forgotten About
Holy smokes 72 hours worth of video uploaded to YouTube every minute. That’s insane!
Toni recently posted..My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic “Pinkie Pie Party” Review
I think those trends were actually set in place a few years ago, we personally use YouTube less than we did years ago. LOL
Jenn @therebelchick recently posted..Protect Your iPhone and Your Cash with the eyn iPhone Case
Lol, we are naughty voyeurs…why is that?
Penelope (NYC Blogger) recently posted..Try Out New @Gap Jeans This Week {and a $50 Gift Card Giveaway} #DenimEvolved
My grandparents have never used the internet. I try to talk them into getting a computer so they can order groceries online.
Stefani recently posted..New Wellness Brewed Flavors For My Keurig Brewer – #YourPerfectCup
Really neat – with touch screens I can really see how the way we search the internet has and will continue to change.
Emily @FamilyNLifeLV recently posted..How to Cloth Diaper A Newborn
Thanks for sharing!
It has grown so much so fast. Cannot image being without.
We’re actually getting rid of our cable because we stream almost everything nowadays. I spend the majority of my time online, whether its on my iPhone, iPad, iMac or Macbook. I’m always online.
Leilani recently posted..EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale #Giveaway
I still remember the days of my first computer, when we had dial-up AOL… things have definitely come a long way!
Shell Fruscione recently posted..Track Your Activity Easily with the FitBit One {Review}
I can’t even imagine what the atmosphere will be 5 years from now.
Mom Foodie recently posted..Cook Dinner from Scratch…No Excuses! #HelloFresh
I am amazed that both my Mom and m-i-l don’t really use the internet. :/
Donna recently posted..Preserving Family Memories with Saving Memories Forever Review
The tablet thing is huge. I prefer researching and writing on the tablet and love that the notes programs syncs to my computer to make it easier for me to access my work product.
April Golightly recently posted..T-Shirt Ribbon DIY
I have so much to learn! Thank you for posting this.
Jennifer recently posted..10 Ways to Make Your Blog Brand-Friendly -