The Biggest Trends in Tech For 2015

| Updated: Sunday, January 4, 2015, 11:11 [IST]

For tech enthusiasts and tech savvy people, 2014 was certainly a monumental year. Among the many milestones achieved in the tech industry, Xiaomi's growing status in the handset business had most the impact.

By year's end, the company went on to achieve a cult status amongst Indian buyers. As a result, some analysts now claim the Chinese company will outrank the likes of Samsung and HTC in emerging markets.

Among the bold-faced names who came out in 2014 was Samsung with its first ever VR headset, co-developed in association with Oculus Rift. And this is just the beginning. No matter how you look at it--as a consumer or developer - the impact of Virtual Reality is going to be huge.

So, there are a lot of reasons why we're excited about this year. Here are the best trends in tech to watch out in 2015.

#1

Last year saw the Galaxy S5. This year promises a better future ahead for Samsung - the world's top ranked smartphone maker. While CES 2015 is undoubtedly going to remain focused on TVs, the upcoming Mobile World Congress (MWC) will set stage for the Galaxy S6. Recent leaks have confirmed the Galaxy S6 will be a metal-clad handset with curved display and a Snapdragon 810 processor under the hood.

#2

Microsoft's next OS is going to make a huge impact on the flagging PC sales. No doubt, there are a lot of questions floating around about the operating system. Windows 10 does fix a number of issues users had with Windows 8. One of the biggest complaints about Windows 8 was the Start Screen. We'll get to know more details about Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system on Jan 21.

#3

Apple has had a difficult time to convince consumers to buy its advance tablet devices. However, things might turn around, once Apple introduces the iPad Pro later in the year. It's going to be a huge update over the latest-generation iPad Air 2. Some media reports suggest the 12-inch tablet to use a stylus, and a support of Multiscreen that allows several applications to work side-by-side.

#4

The tech giant from Cupertino is planning to roll out the Apple Watch in the first half of 2015. Sure, expectations for the device are immense. The Apple Watch will succeed because the device will be projected as a lifestyle accessory, rather than a sophisticated piece of tech.

#5

Project Ara is a project worth getting excited over. Basically, Google is planning to sell customizable modular smartphones, under its Project Ara, in the first of 2015. Google is currently looking to get OEMs on board to build modules for the device, so that consumers have a greater range of parts to choose from.

#6

The Chinese tech giant has been rumored to come up with the Mi5 in January this year. It's going to be a crazy handset, according to media reports. Whether the device will feature a bezel-less screen or a Snapdragon 810 processor under the hood, we're excited to compare the Mi5 over its predecessor - the Mi4.

#7

Apple released the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus only a few months ago, but the iPhone 7 is already getting much desired attention. In fact, some reports suggest that Samsung has already started producing the chipset (Apple A9) to be used in the device. Rumors claim that the device is set to get launched in the first half of 2015.

#8

Sony's PlayStation 4 has been getting rave reviews from critics and consumers alike. The battle between the PS4 and Xbox One is in full swing. During the last year, the PS4 was the best selling console. This year too, the home console will outrank its nearest rival - the Xbox One. Sony's Project Morpheus VR accessory for PlayStation 4 is going to be launched in 2015. Early positive feedback around the VR headset shows it to be a winner. Watch this space for more action in the coming months!

#9

Smartphone makers will continue to launch budget handsets in emerging markets. This year, though, we may get to see the arrival of affordable phones with 4G LTE connectivity. Asus, Motorola, Lenovo and Huawei are among the few notable players who have already wished to launch entry-level LTE handset in India in 2015.

#10

It's without question the best time to buy a Virtual Reality (VR) headset. Samsung's Gear VR is already out in the market; though limited to US. At the same time, the Facebook-owned company--Oculus--is expected to announce the consumer version of Oculus Rift by summers 2015. Sony and Carl Zeiss are also in the race, too.