The US government has picked out key emerging technologies that will change industries and daily life. They will also affect the nation’s security and economic competitiveness. This list of Critical and Emerging Technologies (CETs) is more detailed than the 2022 version. It looks closely at important areas within each technology field.
These technologies cover a wide range, from advanced computing and artificial intelligence to biotechnologies and clean energy solutions. They are pushing innovation, making things more productive, and changing the US tech scene. As technology changes fast, focusing on these critical and emerging technologies is key. It helps the US stay competitive and keep its national security safe.
Key Takeaways
- The US government has identified a comprehensive list of Critical and Emerging Technologies (CETs) that are deemed crucial for national security and economic competitiveness.
- These CETs span a wide range of advanced technology domains, from artificial intelligence and computing to biotechnologies and clean energy.
- The updated CET list, developed through an interagency process, provides greater granularity by identifying key subfields within each technology category.
- Maintaining a strong focus on nurturing and harnessing these critical and emerging technologies is essential for the US to stay at the forefront of innovation and safeguard its national interests.
- The government’s efforts to identify and prioritize CETs reflect the growing importance of advanced technologies in shaping the future of industries and daily life in the United States.
Introduction to Critical and Emerging Technologies
Critical and emerging technologies (CETs) are advanced technologies with huge potential. They can shape our future in security, economy, and global influence. These technologies lead in innovation and are key to keeping America ahead in a complex world.
Definition and Significance of CETs
Critical and emerging technologies include cutting-edge advancements like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. They are critical because they help address national security issues, boost the economy, and support democratic values.
- CETs give the U.S. strategic benefits in national defense, gathering intelligence, and leading in technology.
- These technologies can open new paths for economic growth, creating jobs that require high skills and encouraging innovation in many fields.
- Developing and using CETs responsibly can make democratic institutions stronger, protect privacy, and uphold freedom and openness.
National Security Interests and CETs
The U.S. government sees three main national security interests that CETs can help with. These are protecting Americans, growing the economy, and defending democratic values. The 2022 National Security Strategy highlights how CETs are key to keeping America competitive and creating a stable, prosperous, and democratic world.
| National Security Interest | How CETs Support It |
|---|---|
| Protecting the Security of the American People | CETs boost national defense, improve gathering intelligence, and make cybersecurity stronger. |
| Expanding Economic Prosperity and Opportunity | Advances in CETs lead to more innovation, create jobs that need high skills, and make American industries more competitive. |
| Defending Democratic Values | Using CETs responsibly can make democratic institutions stronger, protect privacy, and support freedom and openness. |
“The United States must keep a technological lead to protect our national security, promote economic growth, and defend democratic values.”
Advanced Computing: Powering the Future
Advanced computing is changing how we use and understand data. It’s a key part of emerging technologies. It includes supercomputers and artificial intelligence (AI) working together.
Supercomputing and AI Applications
Supercomputers are making big changes in many areas. They can do complex tasks super fast. This helps scientists and researchers solve tough problems and make new discoveries.
AI is also changing the game. It’s making things like healthcare and finance better. AI uses smart algorithms to make decisions and find important information in big data.
Edge Computing and Cloud Services
Edge computing and cloud services are making advanced computing even more powerful. Edge computing does tasks closer to where data is, making decisions faster. Cloud services offer flexible and easy-to-use computing power.
These technologies are key to the future. They help with digital changes and new discoveries. As we need faster and smarter computing, these technologies will lead the way in many areas.
| Technology | Applications | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Supercomputing | Scientific research, weather modeling, cryptography | Faster data processing, improved simulation accuracy, accelerated discovery |
| Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Healthcare diagnostics, financial risk analysis, autonomous vehicles | Automated decision-making, enhanced prediction capabilities, optimized workflows |
| Edge Computing | IoT devices, smart cities, industrial automation | Reduced latency, improved data security, real-time processing |
| Cloud Services | Remote collaboration, scalable storage, on-demand computing | Cost-effectiveness, accessibility, flexibility |
“Advanced computing technologies are not just transforming individual industries, but are reshaping the very fabric of our society, empowering us to tackle complex challenges and unlock new realms of possibility.”
Advanced Engineering Materials: Revolutionizing Industries
The world of advanced engineering materials is changing many industries. By using materials science and material innovations, experts are making new materials. These materials have amazing properties and abilities.
These materials are making big changes in fields like aerospace and electronics. They’re working on materials by design, material genomics, and new ways to test and assess materials. The aim is to make materials better and open up new uses in industries.
- Advanced materials for aerospace: Lightweight, high-strength composites and alloys that enhance fuel efficiency and performance
- Smart materials for electronics: Adaptive and responsive materials that enable flexible, wearable, and integrated devices
- Biomedical materials: Innovative biomaterials that improve medical implants, prosthetics, and tissue engineering
These advanced engineering materials are changing the game, bringing new innovations to different areas. As this field grows, it’s set to change the base of our industries. It’s starting a new era of technological growth.
“The future of our industries lies in the materials we create today. Advanced engineering materials are the key to unlocking the next generation of breakthroughs.”
Technologies
The world of critical and emerging technologies (CETs) is filled with many specialized fields. These fields are set to change the future. Advanced gas turbine engine technologies and advanced sensing are two key areas.
Advanced Gas Turbine Engine Technologies
Researchers and engineers are making big strides in gas turbine engines. They’re focusing on full-authority digital engine control and new ways to make hot-section parts. These efforts are making gas turbines work better, last longer, and use less energy. This is good news for many industries, from aerospace to power generation.
Advanced and Networked Sensing
Advanced and networked sensing is also changing the game. It includes many types of sensors and new ways to process data. These technologies are making big differences in areas like transportation, security, healthcare, and energy. They give people better information and help them make smarter choices.
| Technology | Key Advancements | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Gas Turbine Engine Technologies |
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| Advanced and Networked Sensing |
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Advanced gas turbine engine technologies and networked sensing are leading the way in the CETs field. They’re set to bring new ideas and progress to many sectors.
Advanced Manufacturing: Driving Innovation
The world of advanced manufacturing is changing fast. New technologies and methods are set to change how we make things. Additive manufacturing and smart manufacturing are leading this change.
Additive Manufacturing: Revolutionizing Product Design and Prototyping
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is changing the game. It lets us make complex parts and products quickly and efficiently. This means we can make prototypes fast and produce products on demand.
This technology helps manufacturers quickly meet market needs and customer wants.
Smart Manufacturing: Optimizing Efficiency and Sustainability
Smart manufacturing is also on the rise. It uses data, automation, and smart systems to make processes better, greener, and more flexible. These tools help manufacturers work smarter, waste less, and make better products.
Together, additive and smart manufacturing are pushing innovation in many industries. They help manufacturers stay ahead and meet customer and market needs.
| Technology | Key Capabilities | Industry Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Additive Manufacturing |
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| Smart Manufacturing |
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Artificial Intelligence: The Transformative Force
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game in the fast-paced world of new tech. It’s a key emerging technology that’s changing industries and how we live. AI includes many areas, like machine learning and deep learning, and also talks about AI safety and trust.
Machine Learning and Deep Learning
Machine learning and deep learning are at the core of the AI revolution. They let computers learn from data, spot patterns, and make smart choices on their own. These technologies are behind big advances in things like voice recognition and image processing. They’re changing many industries and our everyday lives.
AI Safety, Trust, and Responsible Use
As AI gets more advanced, making sure it’s safe and used right is key. Experts are working hard on making AI safe and trustworthy. They’re creating systems that follow democratic values. This way, we can use AI’s power for good while avoiding its risks.
“Artificial intelligence has the potential to be humanity’s greatest invention, but we must ensure it is developed and used responsibly.”
AI’s impact on our world is huge and still growing. By focusing on responsible AI and new tech, we can open up new chances. This will help us create a future that’s both high-tech and ethical.
Biotechnologies: Unlocking Nature’s Potential
The field of biotechnologies is changing fast and is unlocking nature’s secrets. It’s led by new advances in synthetic biology, multi-omics, and bioinformatics. These tools help us engineer biological systems at different scales.
New bioengineering methods are driving progress in biotechnologies. Scientists can now design and make custom organisms and biomolecules with great precision. This has opened new doors in medicine, biomanufacturing, and making sustainable materials.
Also, combining advanced tech like cell-free systems and bioinformatics is changing how we work with biological processes. These advances are making biomanufacturing more efficient and large-scale. This means we can now make a wide range of products, from medicines to special chemicals.
“Biotechnologies hold the key to unlocking nature’s vast potential, and we are only beginning to scratch the surface of what is possible.”
As biotechnologies keep evolving, we’ll see more big changes. These changes will change industries, help human health, and make our future more sustainable.
Clean Energy: Paving the Way to a Sustainable Future
The world is facing big challenges with climate change. Clean energy is a key solution, offering new technologies for a sustainable future. This includes renewable energy, advanced energy storage, and managing carbon emissions.
Renewable Generation and Energy Storage
Clean energy is leading the way in renewable tech, like wind, solar, and nuclear power. These sources are becoming more popular, offering a green alternative to fossil fuels. They help cut down on carbon emissions.
Energy storage is also getting better, with things like batteries and grid tech. These are key for making renewable energy work smoothly in our power systems.
Carbon Management Technologies
There’s also a focus on managing carbon emissions. These technologies aim to capture, store, and use carbon. This helps fight climate change.
These solutions include capturing and storing carbon, and using it in industries. They’re crucial in the battle against global warming.
Clean energy tech is important for our energy plans. It supports the planet, makes energy safer, and boosts our economy. By investing in these technologies, the U.S. is moving towards a clean, sustainable future for everyone.
| Technology | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Power | Harnessing the power of wind to generate electricity | Provides a clean, renewable source of energy with no greenhouse gas emissions |
| Solar Energy | Converting sunlight into electrical energy using photovoltaic cells | Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to a low-carbon energy mix |
| Carbon Capture and Storage | Technologies that capture, transport, and store carbon dioxide emissions underground | Helps mitigate climate change by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere |
“The future of energy is clean, renewable, and sustainable. By investing in critical and emerging technologies, we can unlock a brighter, more eco-friendly tomorrow.”
Data Security and Cybersecurity: Safeguarding the Digital World
In today’s world, keeping our digital information safe is more important than ever. We rely on technology more and more, which means we face bigger risks of cyber attacks and data breaches. We need new ways to protect our digital stuff.
Privacy-Enhancing Technologies
Privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) are leading the charge in digital security. These tools help keep our personal data safe. They use advanced encryption and systems to manage identities in a private way. This lets people and companies use the internet safely.
Distributed Confidential Computing
Distributed confidential computing is also key in keeping data safe. It uses secure areas and trusted environments to protect information. This way, even if a computer is not fully trusted, the data inside it stays safe. It helps stop data breaches and keeps information private.
| Technology | Description | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy-Enhancing Technologies (PETs) | A suite of tools and techniques that safeguard sensitive information and personal data, including advanced encryption, decentralized identity management, and data anonymization. | Improved data privacy, enhanced security, and greater user trust in digital systems. |
| Distributed Confidential Computing | An approach that leverages secure enclaves, trusted execution environments, and other privacy-preserving technologies to protect sensitive data throughout its lifecycle, even in untrusted computing environments. | Reduced risk of data breaches, increased data security, and the ability to process sensitive information in a more secure and compliant manner. |
As technology grows, so does the need for strong data security and cybersecurity. Using the latest in privacy tools and distributed computing helps us make the internet safer. This lets people and companies stay ahead of cyber threats.
Cutting-Edge Technologies: Hypersonics, Quantum, and More
The future of technology is exciting, with hypersonics and quantum information leading the way. These technologies are changing everything, from how we think about national security to the speed of travel.
Hypersonics: Pushing the Boundaries of Speed
Hypersonics is all about flying faster than five times the speed of sound. It’s changing aviation and defense in big ways. With new tech in propulsion and materials, we’re making planes and missiles that can go super fast.
This means big changes for the military and how we travel. Nations are racing to use hypersonics for a big lead in both areas.
Quantum Information and Enabling Technologies
At the same time, quantum information is changing how we think about computing, communication, and sensing. Quantum computing can solve problems way faster, and quantum communications make messages safe. Quantum sensors and materials help us use quantum tech.
These technologies are pushing us forward in many areas. They’re changing national security, science, and industries. The work in hypersonics, quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensors is shaping our future.
Also Read: How To Implement Cybersecurity Solutions For Maximum Security
“The future is here, and it’s being driven by the incredible potential of hypersonics and quantum information technologies.”
Conclusion
The US government has updated its list of critical and emerging technologies. This shows its strong commitment to using advanced tech for national security, economic growth, and democratic values. The list acts as a roadmap for government plans, industry research, and working with other countries.
The US is ready to use new tech in areas like advanced computing, materials engineering, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. At the same time, the government is working to handle the risks and challenges of these new technologies. This ensures they are developed and used responsibly.
This approach helps the US stay ahead in technology, stay competitive globally, and keep its leading role in emerging tech. The CET list proves the US’s strong commitment to using innovation for national security, economic growth, and democratic values.
FAQs
Q: What are some of the emerging technologies in the US as of 2024?
A: Some of the emerging technologies in the US include advancements in robotics, hybrid energy production systems, and improved navigational technologies.
Q: How does privacy factor into emerging technologies like AI and robotics?
A: Privacy is a significant concern with emerging technologies, particularly with AI and robotics that utilize cameras to detect and analyze data. Ensuring that personal information is protected while leveraging these technologies is crucial.
Q: What role does camera technology play in the development of emerging technologies?
A: Camera technology is pivotal in various emerging technologies, including robotics and navigation systems, as it allows for enhanced data collection and environmental interaction, improving overall functionality.
Q: How can the emerging technologies of 2023 impact energy production?
A: Emerging technologies from 2023 are expected to revolutionize energy production through innovations in renewable energy sources and more efficient energy management systems, contributing to sustainability efforts.
Q: In what ways can we refine existing technologies to improve privacy?
A: We can refine existing technologies by implementing stronger encryption methods, improving data anonymization techniques, and developing regulations that prioritize user consent and privacy protection.
Q: What advancements in navigation technology are expected by 2024?
A: By 2024, advancements in navigation technology are likely to include increased accuracy through AI algorithms, integration with real-time data, and enhanced user interfaces for better accessibility.
Q: How does computer science contribute to the development of emerging technologies?
A: Computer science serves as the foundation for many emerging technologies, enabling the development of algorithms, machine learning, and data analysis capabilities that power innovations across various fields.
Q: What are the implications of the rising use of robotics in everyday life?
A: The rising use of robotics can lead to increased efficiency in various sectors, but it also raises concerns related to job displacement, privacy issues, and the ethical implications of autonomous machines.
Q: How can audio technology be integrated into emerging technologies?
A: Audio technology can be integrated into emerging technologies through voice recognition systems, enhancing user interfaces, and enabling interactive communication with robots and smart devices.
Q: What are some potential challenges posed by emerging technologies on privacy?
A: Potential challenges include unauthorized data collection, surveillance through camera usage, and the difficulty of regulating the use of personal information in AI and robotics, which necessitates robust privacy policies and practices.
Source Links
- https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Critical-and-Emerging-Technologies-List-2024-Update.pdf
- https://ww2.aip.org/fyi/white-house-tweaks-list-of-critical-and-emerging-technologies
- https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/perspectives/advisories/2024/02/updated-critical-and-emerging-technologies-list