The pandemic has reshaped the way we work, communicate, and collaborate. As we transition into a post-pandemic era, the rise of remote work, hybrid workplaces, and the broader use of WiFi 6 and 5G technology are setting the stage for a new era in video conferencing. That makes these nearer term technology adoptees all poised to redefine this space.
1. The Hybrid Workplace Takes Center Stage
The hybrid workplace model, a blend of remote and in-office work, is becoming the new norm. Companies have started to realize that flexibility is not just a perk but a necessity. This shift means that video conferencing tools will need to be more versatile than ever. We can anticipate a surge in demand for high-definition video quality, seamless integrations with other workplace tools, and features that mimic in-person interactions.
2. Remote Work: The World is Your Office
With remote work becoming a permanent fixture for many companies, employees are no longer tethered to one location. This freedom means that video conferencing tools will need to cater to users in various settings – from bustling cafes in Paris to serene beaches in Bali. Expect advancements in noise-cancellation technology, background filters, and even augmented reality integrations that allow users to customize their virtual office. Cameras on our mobile devices will become more fully integrated and offer greater flexibility, while microphone technology will focus on our voices, eliminating the noise from the background. All this processing will take place via a combination of edge and cloud technology.
3. Immersive Virtual Environments
The future of video conferencing will be about creating experiences, not just connections. With the advent of augmented and virtual reality technologies, the line between the physical and digital world is blurring. Imagine attending a conference in a virtual auditorium, networking in digital breakout rooms, or brainstorming on a virtual whiteboard that feels as real as the one in your office. We will be able to appear to be together seamlessly, while being thousands of miles apart. New production tools will let meeting hosts create “shows” not just calls, allowing for IRL (in real life) like experiences for “audiences” not just participants with webinars becoming more like talk shows than they are today.
4. AI: The Silent Facilitator
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in the evolution of video conferencing. From real-time language translation and transcription services to sentiment analysis during meetings that we are already seeing today, AI will make video calls more accessible and insightful. Additionally, smart scheduling, automated follow-ups, and meeting summaries powered by AI are already enhancing productivity, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. When integrated with workflow automation tools, we’ll be working smarter, not harder, allowing knowledge workers to focus on what needs to be done, not the mundane tasks of sifting through hours of calls and notes.
5. Connectivity Reimagined with WiFi 6 and 5G
The rollout of WiFi 6 and 5G is a game-changer for video conferencing. These technologies promise faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections. For the end-user, this means no more frozen screens or dropped calls during crucial meetings. But it’s not just about fixing current issues; it’s about unlocking new possibilities. Imagine virtual reality (VR) board meetings, 3D product demos, or holographic presentations.
With WiFi 6 and 5G, these sci-fi concepts could soon become our reality. We’ll soon see the elimination of the “are you there,” “I can’t hear you” or “can you mute” moments also. We’ll know whose on and what’s working (or not) as more bandwidth means more data to be evaluated by the service and combined with smarter coding, the ability to correct things without the need for participants to adjust their settings.
6. Security: A Non-Negotiable Priority
As video conferencing becomes more ingrained in our daily routines, concerns about security and privacy will take center stage. Companies will prioritize platforms that offer end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and robust admin controls. Moreover, as regulations around data privacy tighten globally, video conferencing tools will need to ensure compliance without compromising on user experience. Business users will know where there data is, and be able to redact and protect it. They will know what’s been shared to whom, and how to recall the data. By blending Blockchain with storage, the ability to really own your call data will be yours.
7. Holographic Meetings and Sensory Experiences
With the rollout of 5G, the data speeds and reduced latency will make holographic meetings a reality. Instead of flat screens, colleagues and clients will appear as 3D holograms in your meeting room, bridging the gap between virtual and physical presence. Moreover, the future of video conferencing will engage all our senses. Technologies like digital scent transmission and tactile internet will make it possible to not only see and hear your colleagues but also smell the coffee they’re sipping or feel the texture of a product sample.
8. Interoperability: The Need for Fluidity
As the video conferencing market becomes more saturated, users will demand better interoperability between platforms. No one wants to download ten different apps for ten different meetings. We’ll see a push for standardized protocols and integrations, allowing users to join any meeting, on any platform, from any device.
The future of video conferencing is bright, filled with innovations that will make communication more seamless, immersive, and efficient. As we embrace the hybrid workplace, travel without moving, and tap into the potential of WiFi 6 and 5G, one thing is clear: video conferencing is not just a tool of the times; it’s the way of the future.
As we used to say on “The World Tech RoundUp”—-“Stay connected,” and now more than ever, stay informed, and as always, keep an eye on the horizon for the next big thing in the ever-evolving world of technology.