by In a world forever changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has emerged as a saviour, helping us adapt to a new way of living. As we transition into a post-pandemic era, it’s worth exploring how tech gadgets are shaping our work routines, enhancing our leisure activities and bolstering our health. Let’s delve into this exciting realm of innovation.
Work: A Remote Revolution
The pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work, and it’s here to stay. The sector has seen a 91% growth in the last 10 years, with many companies keeping their work-from-home (WFH) strategy. Not all have followed the trend. Facing mounting rental fees for empty office space, some high-profile companies have mandated a full back-to-work regime. Ironically, Zoom is one of them. Iconic to many of those staying home during the pandemic, the company is wanting people back in the office.
Still, many continue to work from home. The tech gadgets designed to enhance productivity for these people have seen a massive surge in popularity. Smart desks, an ergonomic wonder that adjusts to your preferences with a single touch, are readily available. Noise-cancelling headphones have never been cheaper. Premium office chairs are all the rage.
Another side of technology that has seen an uptick in usage has been learning online. Company training had to be conducted through the screen and it remains a tried-and-trusted approach for bringing new hires up to speed. Tools like Confluence or Stack Overflow have had surges in usage in recent years, meaning the average person has a much lower barrier of entry to their chosen profession.
What tech gadget has caught the eye more than most? Anything AI-related. The adoption of AI tools from the workforce has never been higher. Learning a language, writing code, spell-checking assignments – all of these and more have been heavily affected by the rise of AI since the pandemic.
Leisure: Entertainment Reinvented
With leisure time at a premium, entertainment gadgets have been redefined. Enter virtual reality (VR) headsets that transport you to new worlds. For gamers, cutting-edge gaming consoles like the PS5 and the Xbox Series X offer unparalleled experiences. Gaming has continued its meteoric rise in popularity since the pandemic. With many in lockdown, it became an easy source of entertainment. Global gaming industry revenues have doubled from 2017-2023 and aren’t stopping there.
As we explore leisure tech further, it’s worth noting the rise of online casinos. Many recommended online gambling sites for Indian customers have emerged bigger and brighter than the last, offering a unique blend of entertainment and gaming. From themed slots to cater to specific audiences or the rise of the smartphone for gaming on the go, with their immersive experiences and secure platforms, gambling operators are reshaping how people enjoy their leisure time.
In a similar vein, advancements in areas like drone technology and virtual reality have expanded the bounds of traditional hobbies, enabling enthusiasts to engage in drone racing or immerse themselves in VR experiences. Furthermore, social media platforms and specialized apps have acted as catalysts, connecting like-minded individuals across the globe, thereby cultivating communities of shared interests, and enabling collaborative endeavours in hobbies like photography, crafting, or travel.
Gardening! Technology has even affected the way many people garden. This quiet past-time saw a boon for those who had gardens, and even for those without. Indoor gardening, soil-monitoring technologies, gardening apps to track when you last watered your plants…all saw a sales boost since the pandemic. Gardening was (and remains) the perfect salve for those looking for a hobby away from the crowds.
Health: Your Wellness Companion
Naturally, our health has been at the forefront of our minds post-pandemic. One global effect since then? Our collective loss of sleep. Globally, up to 45% do not get enough sleep on a night-to-night basis, and the number is rising. Therefore, it is no surprise that wearable health tech gadgets, for many, have become essential.
The fitness tracker has evolved into a comprehensive health monitor, while smartwatches offer ECG readings, sleep tracking, and stress management features. The wearables market really picked up steam during the pandemic. It’s expected to grow more than 13% every year for 10 years.
Tech gadgets to aid in running have also seen a boost post-pandemic. The solitary, monotonous activity saw many keen newcomers due to restrictions on team-based sports. Many have continued to put one foot in front of the other really fast. Gyms and their ilk were closed for large swathes of 2020, meaning a run was an ideal form of exercise for many.
Don’t forget the rise of telemedicine apps, which let you consult doctors from the comfort of your home. Smartphones’ endemic nature has bolstered the trend of being able to see your doctor virtually. The practice also (theoretically) allows doctors to see more of their patients, a win-win for all parties.
In conclusion, as we navigate a post-pandemic world, technology continues to be our steadfast companion. From smart desks to sleep aids, these gadgets are not just tools; they’re our partners in adapting and thriving in a changing world. Embrace the tech revolution, and let it enhance your life in more ways than you could have ever imagined.
