Docker, machine learning are top tech trends for 2017

With 2017 fast approaching, technology trends that will keep gathering steam in the new year range from augmented and virtual reality to machine intelligence, Docker, and microservices, according to technology consulting firm ThoughtWorks. The data is based on reports ThoughtWorks' consultants are seeing out in the field. ThoughtWorks sees natural language processing tools like Nuance Mix and hardware providing for natural interactions having a "huge" impact on AR and VR adoption. AR differs from VR in that users still can see the world around them rather than being completely immersed in a virtual space; of the two, AR is likely to be most interesting to businesses. "One excellent application is remote expert systems," said Mike Mason, technology activist at ThoughtWorks.