AI tops IEEE’s list of most critical technologies for 2025

AI dominates tech landscape in 2025: A global survey by IEEE reveals artificial intelligence as the most crucial technology for the coming year, with cloud computing and robotics following closely behind.

• The study, titled “Impact of Technology in 2025 and Beyond: an IEEE Global Study,” surveyed 355 technology leaders across Brazil, China, India, the U.K., and the U.S.
• 58% of respondents ranked AI, including predictive and generative AI, machine learning, and natural language processing, as the most important technology for 2025.
• Cloud computing (26%) and robotics (24%) secured the second and third positions, respectively.

Emerging technologies on the horizon: Extended reality, industrial Internet of Things, quantum computing, and electric vehicles are poised to shape the technological landscape in 2025.

• Extended reality (XR), encompassing the metaverse, augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality, was cited by 21% of respondents as a key technology.
• Industrial Internet of Things (19%), quantum computing (17%), and electric vehicles/EV charging (17%) also featured prominently in the survey results.

AI reckoning and industry impact: Technologists anticipate a shift in public perception and understanding of AI capabilities, along with its widespread adoption across various sectors.

• An overwhelming 91% of respondents predict a “generative AI reckoning” in 2025, with the public developing a more nuanced understanding of AI’s capabilities and limitations.
• The telecommunications, banking and financial services, and media and entertainment industries are expected to be most impacted by AI technology in 2025.

AI implementation challenges: While most organizations plan to continue or embrace AI technology, some are facing difficulties and reconsidering their approach.

• 18% of respondents reported challenges with AI implementation and indicated they would be rethinking their strategy.
• Eleanor Watson, an IEEE Senior Member, highlighted that AI systems still face early challenges, with agentic AI systems on the horizon offering new capabilities but also raising significant safety concerns.

Top AI use cases and skills: The survey identified key applications for AI technology and the most sought-after skills for AI-related roles.

• Real-time cybersecurity vulnerability identification and attack prevention topped the list of potential AI use cases.
• Other important applications include powering educational activities like customized learning and intelligent tutoring systems, as well as aiding software development.
• Technology leaders are prioritizing software development skills, AI ethical practices, and data analysis when hiring for AI-related positions.

Broader implications: The IEEE study underscores the rapid evolution of AI technology and its growing influence across industries, while also highlighting potential challenges and ethical considerations.

• As AI continues to advance, there is a clear need for a balanced approach that maximizes its benefits while addressing concerns related to accuracy, transparency, and safety.
• The predicted “AI reckoning” suggests that public discourse and policy discussions surrounding AI will likely intensify in the coming years, potentially leading to more robust regulations and guidelines for AI development and deployment.
• The emphasis on AI ethical practices as a key skill for future hires indicates a growing awareness of the importance of responsible AI development and implementation.