Throughout 2015 we’ve already looked at the Google search trends and what was big at this year’s Web Summit, but what about the tech predictions for 2016? We’re taking a punt so join us for the Goos3D tech predictions for 2016.
Virtual reality
The reach of virtual reality seems limitless as it provides an immersive gaming experience, flexible news medium and adoption on a budget for those seeking to dip their toe in the water. The latter, owing largely to Google Cardboard, means anyone with a smartphone can try virtual reality for around €25, unless you find one of the many companies that are giving these out for free. For 2016 I would expect to see even better apps and improved on-board sensors within handsets which improve responsiveness during virtual reality use.
With YouTube’s recent support for 360 degree video, there will be an increase in 360 video capture, so you can expect to see practical uses for virtual reality emerge such as selling homes from a far, customised car sale and of course gaming.
Google alternatives will grow in popularity
For many, Google is the first port of call for the day to day queries that pop up but there are a few alternatives emerging from the shadows. With Microsoft pulling of a master-stroke in providing free upgrades for loads of users meaning loads of users found their new and improved Edge browser, formerly Internet Explorer. Edge is certainly an improvement on Internet Explorer and may play a part in the ever-increasing growth in Bing searches. While it’s unlikely to replace Google any time soon, Bing is second in line to the search behemoth.
A real challenge could also be formed at the hands of newcomer DuckDuckGo, who though active since 2008 have reached new levels of usage since a 2014 redesign. The relatively fledging search engine is now included in iOS as an option and is experiencing rapid growth, owing largely to the companies privacy policies.
Broadband might actually get fast down the country
Vodafone have been testing super fast broadband in parts of Ireland for the past few months and when I say fast I mean bloody fast. Teaming up with the ESB, Vodafone’s super fast broadband is routed to the in what is known as Fibre to the Building (FTTB) broadband, providing in excess of 1000 Mbps. Phase one which is currently under way will eventually reach 500,000 homes in selected areas around Ireland and could revolutionise how the country views its network infrastructure.
Technology will remain completely unpredictable
Did you ever think you would use your phone to sort your laundry or be able to see just how many parking spaces were in your usual carpark? Technology keeps evolving in both ways we could never have imagined and in ways that are a little more expected. Either way, we’re excited to see if our tech predictions for 2016 come true or not.
One of the most sought after pieces of jewellery doubles up as a piece of tech. The Apple Watch can already be found in CeX cabinets from the average user who gets tired of wearables after a few months. If you were to shop on the official Apple website now, you would pick up an 
GameStop prove to be cheaper with the Halo 5 and Xbox One 500GB console brand new for about a tenner less than CeX. What’s worse is that the Xbox you buy second hand from CeX doesn’t even come in a box. For the privilege of a cardboard box you’ll pay €335 for the same 500GB console.
Generally speaking you are saving when purchasing handsets, though remember they are second hand. What’s surprising with handsets is the trade in value. Apple gear retains value very well, hence the two year old 5S’s price on the Apple site. With that in mind, CeX will give you €184 cash or €258 store credit for you iPhone 5s. That’s a profit margin of 57% and 40% respectively.
The how two section provides some laughs with “how to shift” making the top list last year. The Irish have become a little more sensual with “how to get rid of hickeys fast” making it into eight position on this years searches.
Google can truly give an insight into the knowledge people crave. With the rise of ISIS there as been a matching rise in people seeking to learn more about the Islamic State stemming from various terrorist attacks. Attacks such as those seen in Paris earlier in 2015 targeting Charlie Hebdo. These attacks led to #JeSuisCharlie trending on Twitter and the trend becoming the second highest search in the category.
He may have only enjoyed 7 minutes and 4 seconds of fighting, but Conor McGregor is just a phenomenon in the ring and in today’s pop culture. Everyone want’s a piece of him as he’s the highest searched sports person and second highest person in general to emerge from Google’s 2015 trends. The legendary All Black, Jonah Lomu comes in second with Ronda Rousey taking third despite here recent shock loss to Holly Holm.