Whether you’re a fan of technology or merely sifting through the massive puddle of everyday innovations, you can’t help but wonder at the developments that lie in the future. The world we live in has changed from “is it possible” to “how better can it get” with smartphones and technology changing the way consumers purchase and utilise services.

Although several e-commerce companies were successful in coping up with the changes in tech trends in 2017, it’s now time to look ahead and strategise to tackle the upcoming challenges of 2018.

Here are some of the key trends in the e-commerce and technology space that might be a game changer in 2018:

Cryptocurrencies and blockchain

The use of cryptography in currencies to create alternative digital assets is the latest trend everyone is talking about and it would be interesting to see how it changes the scenario of asset development in 2018. Bitcoin, being the most notable crypto currency, has become a global phenomenon but at the same time a lot of people are still trying to understand its impact better. 2018 could focus on the creation of the next level of software and products based on the concept of blockchain across various industries, including cybersecurity, healthcare, financial services and more for a larger impact across the globe.

Interactive content

In 2018, too, brands need to continue to dive into creative storytelling to drive conversions and differentiate. With Facebook’s recent announcement of prioritising friends over publishers, brands are more likely to adopt interesting content strategies that drive shareability to stay competitive. While original content is the key, curated content in the forms of recommendations, reviews and expert opinions along with outstanding video content will make the audience come back.

Improved and better use of artificial intelligence (AI)

In 2018, use of machine learning and artificial intelligence is expected to broaden horizons and move ahead of just automating our daily activities. The use of AI for personal interaction, self-perception and brain simulation and understanding and predicting consumer behaviour better could be one of the biggest trends of 2018. It would be interesting to see how many leading digital brands leverage the power of machine learning to unlock its potential.

Voice search and personalisation

It has been reported that approximately 40 per cent of millennials have used a voice assistant prior to making a purchase. Furthermore, with precise utilisation of the voice search feature with developed preference for local languages and accents, consumers and ecommerce retailers both are bound to reap its benefits this year. The well-informed user of 2018 need not be taught about what is right and what is wrong. The changing trends rather induce the brands to focus on personalised experiences instead. Helping the users to do the same things in a better manner and easing the reach of what users want is what would define the trend of customisation in 2018.

The author is the CEO of Gadgets 360. The views expressed are personal and Indiantelevision.com may not subscribe to them.