Science Friday

The Breakthrough Technologies To Watch In 2025

Jan 7, 2025

Explore the latest game-changing technologies set to revolutionize our world. Smaller language models are emerging as efficient alternatives to their larger counterparts, driving accessibility and sustainability. Generative AI is transforming search capabilities, as seen with Google's Gemini. There's also exciting news in healthcare with a promising new HIV medication showing great potential in trials. Finally, innovations in cleaner jet fuels and eco-friendly steel production highlight the aviation industry's commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

18:06

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Quick takeaways

Small language models are emerging as efficient, climate-friendly alternatives to larger AI models, tailored for specialized applications in various industries.

The breakthrough HIV medication Lenacapavir, requiring administration only every six months, offers significant hope in the global fight against AIDS by 2030.

Deep dives

Breakthrough Technologies Selection Process

The process of selecting breakthrough technologies involves extensive collaboration among the staff at the MIT Technology Review. Each year, team members propose various technologies deemed to have breakthrough potential, which can include new medical treatments or innovative climate technologies. These suggested technologies are then debated and voted on, resulting in a diverse list that balances well-known innovations with newer concepts. The team prioritizes technologies that have reached significant regulatory milestones or have shown promising results in trials, ensuring a mix of optimism and awareness of potential impacts.

Intro

2min

Understanding the Selection Process for Breakthrough Technologies

2min

The Rise of Specialized Small Language Models

2min

The Rise of Efficient AI: Language Models and Search Innovation

4min

Advancements in Autonomous Technology and Sustainable Innovations

10min

Each year, the journalists at the MIT Technology Review publish a list of 10 breakthrough technologies: these are things poised to hit a tipping point, and potentially change the way the world works.

Unsurprisingly, artificial intelligence remains a big breakthrough. While 2024 was the year of large learning models, small learning models top Technology Review’s list this year. These smaller models are more accessible, efficient, and could be better for the climate than their larger counterparts.

Also on the list is generative AI search, which is already implemented by Google with its Gemini language model. A new HIV medication called Lenacapavir, which has been shown to be incredibly effective in trials, is also on the list, along with cleaner, alternative jet fuels.

Joining Ira to talk through these and other items on the list is Amy Nordrum, executive editor of operations at MIT Technology Review based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.

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Science Friday

The Breakthrough Technologies To Watch In 2025

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Breakthrough Technologies Selection Process

Emerging AI Innovations

Advancements in Healthcare and Environmental Sustainability

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts