The gap between science fiction and reality is narrowing daily. Here’s a look at five technologies and market and society trends that scientists at IBM’s research lab think may change the way people work, live and interact in the next five years.

    1. Power from the people

    Anything that moves or produces heat has the potential to create energy that can be captured, Big Blue’s scientists said in their sixth annual “IBM 5 in 5” look at what’s in store for mankind in the near term. Walking, jogging, bicycling. The heat from your computer or the water flowing through plumbing.

    Scientists believe that advances in renewable energy technology will allow individuals to collect this kinetic* energy, which now goes to waste, and use it to help power homes, offices and cities.

    2. You are your password

    Each person has a unique* biological identity. Your biometric data — facial definitions, retina* scans and voice files — will be composited through software to build an individual’s unique online password, IBM researchers said.

    Referred to as multi-factor biometrics, smarter systems will be able to use this information in real-time to safeguard your identity.

    In the future, you will be able to walk up to an ATM and withdraw money by simply speaking your name or looking into a tiny sensor* that can recognize the unique patterns in the retina of your eye.

    3. Digital divide closes

    In five years, IBM said, the gap between information haves and have-nots will narrow greatly due to advances in mobile technology; by then 80 percent of the global population will have a mobile device. This will empower people who lack spending power.

    4. Mind reading possible

    Mind reading may make the leap from science fiction to real life sooner than expected, the researchers said. IBM scientists are among those researching how to link your brain to devices such as a computer or smart phone and be able to control objects by just thinking about it.

    5. Junk becomes gems

    In five years, unsolicited advertisements* may feel so personalized and relevant* that you’ll think spam* is dead. At the same time, spam filters* will be so precise that you’ll never be bothered by unwanted sales pitches again.

     (SD-Agencies)