What is Technology and How Does it Impact Our Lives?🖳

I have recently uploaded a video to YouTube summarising technology and how it impacts our lives. This is the script I wrote and followed when my filming my presentation. I will also leave the link to my video below, as well as the link to a PowerPoint I made! Thank you for reading :)

Introduction

Hello, my name is Lillie, and today we are going to explore the world of technology and how it impacts our day-to-day lives. From digital devices to algorithms, technology shapes what we see, search, buy and believe. Let’s unpack the digital experience point by point, so we can understand this invisible backbone of modern society.

 Firstly, I’d like to mention that technology isn’t just about the latest gadgets- it’s any tool or system that helps us solve problems and create something new.

 Access to the internet

The internet, officially born in 1983 is the foundation of most people’s digital experience and today, its accessed by approximately 5.5 billion people. That’s two thirds of the globe connected to one another through just a few clicks and swipes. From these billions of consumers using the internet, there are actually a staggering 13 devices per person that are connected to the internet. With mobile devices now surpassing desktops as the primary way to communicate and learn, our pockets have become a powerful gateway to global information.

 Digital Devices

There is a huge array of digital devices on offer to us in today’s age. Close to 5 billion people own a smartphone and 4 billion have either a computer or laptop. But there are so many more different devices available beyond the normalised phones. We now have smart speakers in our homes to write our shopping lists, drones to capture footage we otherwise wouldn’t be able to create, and smartwatches to help us keep track of our fitness goals. Technology is all around us, and its easy for us to take for granted how much it helps in our everyday lives and the positive impact it can have.

 How customers search for information

When searching for information, consumers are initially faced with which method or platform to use. Typically, search engines such as Google have been the dominant source of looking for information, however there’s a growing shift to alternative routes. Younger demographics such as generation Z are leaning towards social media platforms like TikTok to learn new things, and AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT are rapidly gaining traction. Regardless of which method used though, algorithms instantly curate personalised results based on previous history inputted on that device or from that account. On average there are 13.7 billion google searches made every day, showing just how many of us are searching for information.

 What consumers buy online

One of the major ways that technology has impacted our lives is through online shopping. You can now purchase literally anything via the internet. Consumers are increasingly turning to online platforms for a wide range of purchases. Everything from fashion pieces to electronics, concert tickets and even groceries are now bought online. Easily accessible reviews aid us in buying the right product, and they shape our trust. Meanwhile, algorithms recommend us products before we even know we want them, tailoring our experiences to each individual. Consumers crave speed and transparency- we want fast delivery, easy returns, and proof that what we are buying isn’t going to be a disappointment.

 Online video Consumption

Online video now dominates digital media, with it accounting for over 82% of all internet traffic. Individuals tend to spend on average 17-21 hours a week watching video content in one form or another. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Netflix have redefined how we engage with stories, from bite-sized entertainment to binge-worthy series. Short-form content is increasingly the most popular, especially amongst younger audiences, however data shows that longer videos are resurging, particularly when they educate and inspire.

 Consumer Trends

Trends show that technology has evolved from basic functionality to deeply personalised, interconnected experiences. Online habits have shifted towards on-the-go access, app-based services and social media engagement. Trends also suggest a rise in ethical consumption and sustainable brands. Consumers are asking: Is this sustainable? Is this inclusive and does it align with my values? Thanks to the internet and the vast amount of content and products available, we are given a choice, and that is perhaps the most important thing. We still have our individuality, and can make our own decisions, yet the internet helps us nonetheless, practically every day.

 Summary

Technology has revolutionized daily life, empowering people to stay connected, informed, and efficient. Accessing the internet is now nearly universal, with over 90 countries having regular and efficient internet available. The average person actually touches their smartphone over 2600 times a day, showing just how deeply technology is woven into our routines- from waking up with alarms to winding down with streaming apps and podcasts. Technology’s influence extends beyond convenience; it shapes the framework through which individuals, institutions, and cultures evolve. And as we navigate this increasingly digital world, the thoughtful integration of technology remains essential to advancing human potential and social progress.

YouTube Video-

https://youtu.be/NqUDPg-yNVk

PowerPoint-

https://www.slideshare.net/secret/gNiPRoRTUaqTxd