Tech trends 2022: Web 3.0, big tech battles

Following a year that saw WFH (work from home) and metaverse become household terms, a new wave of technological trends is on the horizon for 2022.
One notable trend is the emergence of ‘Web 3.0’ and cryptocurrencies. While the early internet was characterized by websites and blogs, and Web 2.0 brought about social media and user-generated content, Web 3.0 promises a paradigm shift where users, creators, and developers have a stake and voice in platforms, akin to cooperatives. Blockchain technology, known for enabling cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), could play a pivotal role in realizing this vision.
However, alongside these advancements, the threat of ransomware looms large. Record-high ransomware attacks and data breaches observed in 2021 are expected to persist, driven by factors such as the surging value of cryptocurrencies, victims’ willingness to pay, and the challenges authorities face in apprehending perpetrators.
Moreover, the tech landscape may witness an uptick in lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny. Revelations from whistleblower leaks exposing Facebook’s knowledge of its platforms’ harmful effects could lead to new legislation. Additionally, ongoing legal battles, such as the dispute between Apple and Epic Games over App Store control, highlight the evolving regulatory landscape, with potential ramifications for tech giants globally, particularly in the EU, which is pushing for stricter regulations.