13 Tech Trends to Watch Now, According to McKinsey (and No, It’s Not All AI)

The tech world is in a state of constant evolution, and businesses that fail to adapt risk falling behind. While artificial intelligence (AI) dominates headlines, a broader spectrum of innovations is poised to reshape industries and redefine the future. McKinsey & Company’s latest research highlights 13 emerging technologies that demand attention—not just as incremental improvements, but as fundamental shifts with the potential to unlock significant economic value and disrupt established norms. Understanding these trends is no longer optional; it’s a necessity for survival and growth.

The AI Hype Train (But There’s More)

AI is undeniably a game-changer. McKinsey’s research places generative AI and, increasingly, agentic AI at the forefront of impactful technologies. Generative AI, capable of creating new content—text, images, code—is projected to contribute as much as $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy. This capability is already transforming sectors like fashion, where AI automates processes and enables personalized experiences. However, focusing solely on AI overlooks a crucial point: it’s one piece of a much larger puzzle. The true power lies in the convergence of these technologies, creating synergistic effects that amplify their individual impact.

Beyond AI, several other trends are gaining momentum. Advanced connectivity, encompassing 5G, satellite internet, and next-generation Wi-Fi, is laying the groundwork for a more interconnected world. This enhanced connectivity is crucial for enabling technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and facilitating real-time data exchange. Cloud and edge computing continue to evolve, offering scalable and efficient infrastructure for processing and storing vast amounts of data. Quantum computing, while still in its early stages, holds the potential to revolutionize fields like drug discovery and materials science. Bioengineering and commercial space exploration, once relegated to the realm of science fiction, are now becoming tangible realities, driven by advancements in biotechnology and rocketry. Nanomaterials, attracting significant venture capital and patent filings, promise breakthroughs in areas like energy storage and manufacturing.

The Pandemic’s Tech Acceleration

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for technological adoption, accelerating trends that were already underway. Countries in Asia, in particular, demonstrated a rapid deployment of technology to mitigate the pandemic’s disruptions, highlighting the importance of digital readiness. Information technology played a critical role in predicting outbreaks, increasing business preparedness, and facilitating remote work and education. This experience underscored the resilience and adaptability that technology can provide in the face of unforeseen crises. Furthermore, the pandemic highlighted the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. As industries become increasingly reliant on new technologies—AI, advanced analytics, and the internet—the threat landscape expands, demanding innovative solutions to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure.

The Financial Services Revolution

The financial services industry provides a compelling example of AI’s transformative power. From customer service automation to fraud detection and risk management, AI is being integrated into virtually every aspect of the sector. Generative AI is enabling personalized financial advice and streamlining complex processes. However, the adoption of AI in finance also raises important ethical and regulatory considerations, requiring careful attention to issues like bias and transparency. Mastercard Signals research emphasizes the crucial role of AI, cloud computing, and data management in reshaping commerce, indicating a fundamental shift in how transactions are processed and secured.

The Broader Implications

McKinsey’s Technology Trends Outlook consistently emphasizes the importance of a holistic perspective. It’s not simply about identifying the “hottest” technologies, but understanding how they interact and influence each other. The value lies in recognizing the broader implications and developing strategies to leverage these trends effectively. The annual analysis ranks technologies based on their relevance across diverse industries, from aerospace to telecommunications, providing a nuanced understanding of their potential impact. This year’s edition, in particular, offers a valuable perspective, moving beyond simple charts and statistics to provide deeper insights into the underlying forces driving technological change.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the convergence of these technologies will likely accelerate. The development of agentic AI—AI systems capable of autonomous action and decision-making—will be a key area to watch. This technology has the potential to automate complex tasks and unlock new levels of efficiency. However, it also raises important questions about control, accountability, and the future of work. Successfully navigating this evolving landscape will require a proactive approach, a willingness to experiment, and a commitment to continuous learning. The technologies themselves are powerful tools, but their true potential will only be realized through strategic implementation and a deep understanding of their implications.