Web3: Venturing into a New Digital Frontier

Abstract

Web3 promises to be the latest iteration of the internet, transforming how the content we receive and put out online is distributed and, perhaps most importantly, who it is owned by. Built on the key concept of decentralization, where no single entity has oversight or control privileges, and leveraging blockchains, Web3 has quickly become one of the most interesting and controversial next-generation technologies. However, this reputation is changing, as despite contending with numerous challenges surrounding security, regulations, and usability, Web3 is increasingly being recognized for its potential to disrupt entire industries and become a truly transformational piece of technology. Ultimately, whether Web3 can become the next iteration of the internet will be determined in the coming years and hinge on its ability to overcome the growing pains and develop into a mature development framework.

This analyst insights report examines numerous key findings from across our twice-annual Global Development Survey Report and Cloud Development Survey Report series, together with secondary research on the trends in Web3, to examine the future development of the platform and its potential impact on the internet.

Fake News or Deepfake News: Synthetic Content and Elections

Abstract

Deepfake technology can be used for political gain. This was a concern in the 2020 US Presidential Election cycle, and technologies have only advanced since then. Generative AI, video creation tools, and a sense that we know better all contribute to the potential problem of manipulating voters with deepfakes. If deepfakes are successful, they can discredit photo evidence, foster complacency, impact reputations, and sow seeds of doubt. Fortunately, policy and technology are combatting deepfakes' influence, and AI – the same discipline that makes deepfakes more convincing – is also used to defend against misinformation.

This analyst insights report marries research across three of our syndicated survey report series with secondary research about the tech industry and society to highlight the challenges and influences deepfake technology can have on politics and society.

Quantum Computers: The Promised Technological Leap

Abstract

Our recent data shows growing developer interest in quantum computing due to increased resources, educational materials, and user-friendly tools. Quantum computers could revolutionize generative AI in the next few years by lowering costs and enabling new applications, although challenges like resource allocation must still be addressed. While quantum computers promise a technological leap, their extreme vulnerability to decoherence and potential to break current encryption necessitate advancements in materials science and new error correction techniques.

Low Code vs Gen AI: Will Low-Code Tools Become Obsolete by Generative AI?

Abstract

Low Code tools and Generative AI are both seeing increased usage for developing software. These technologies, though addressing the same issue of simplifying software development and making it more accessible, have distinct competencies, functionalities, and uses. While low-code environments lower the barrier to entry for citizen coders, generative AI produces code without the need for any coding knowledge, yet raises concerns about the opacity of its processes. However, this does not necessarily mean that low code and generative AI tools are in a collision course or in competition with one another; integrating them together will instead lead to tools that are accessible, flexible, and capable of increasingly complex code building. This amalgamation of functionality may transform the role of developers and democratize software development, reinventing what it means to be a developer.

This analyst insights report examines numerous key findings from across our syndicated survey report series together with secondary research on the trends in software development, detailing the trajectory of both low code and generative artificial intelligence and their interlinked potential.