8 tech 'megatrends' that are about to change business

An assemblage of technological breakthroughs are rapidly morphing to create massive changes in how businesses operate. Artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT) are just three of eight crucial "megatrends" that strategy consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) says is going to significantly distort business. Those new forces should clearly be planned for. And although the consulting firm's advice is aimed at generalized CEOs, it's IT and technical teams that will have to lay the groundwork. Robots, augmented reality (AR), 3D printing, drones and virtual reality (VR) are also among PwC's pick of "essential eight technologies" that the firm says in its report (PDF) (released during the summer) need to be considered by company chiefs to move their operations forward.