15.1 Emerging technologies and their impact on representation

Emerging technologies are reshaping how we see and interact with media. Virtual reality, AI, and social media algorithms are changing the game, offering new ways to represent ourselves and others in digital spaces.

These advancements bring exciting possibilities but also raise concerns. From deepfakes to filter bubbles, we're grappling with the impact of tech on representation, identity, and truth in our increasingly connected world.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Immersive Technologies

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• Virtual Reality (VR) immerses users in a completely digital environment, replacing the real world with a simulated one (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
• Augmented Reality (AR) overlays digital information onto the real world, enhancing the user's perception of reality (Pokémon Go, Google Glass)
• Metaverse is a collective virtual shared space, created by the convergence of virtually enhanced physical reality and physically persistent virtual space (Second Life, Fortnite)
• Digital avatars are graphical representations of users in virtual environments, allowing them to interact with others and the digital world (Bitmoji, Xbox Live Avatars)

Advancements in VR/AR Hardware

• Wearable technology includes devices worn on the body that interact with the user and other devices (smartwatches, fitness trackers)
• VR headsets have become more affordable and accessible, with improved resolution and refresh rates for a more realistic experience (Oculus Quest, PlayStation VR)
• AR devices are becoming more compact and lightweight, with advancements in display technology and computer vision (Microsoft HoloLens, Magic Leap)
• Haptic feedback systems provide tactile sensations to enhance immersion in virtual environments (gloves, vests)

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

AI and Machine Learning Applications

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence (natural language processing, decision making)
• Machine Learning is a subset of AI that enables systems to learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed (image recognition, spam filtering)
• Voice assistants use AI and natural language processing to understand and respond to user queries (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant)
• Facial recognition technology uses AI algorithms to identify individuals based on their facial features (security systems, social media tagging)

AI-Generated Content and Deepfakes

• Deepfakes are synthetic media in which a person in an existing image or video is replaced with someone else's likeness, generated using AI (face swapping, voice cloning)
• AI-generated content includes text, images, and videos created by machine learning algorithms (GPT-3, DALL-E, Midjourney)
• Concerns arise regarding the potential misuse of deepfakes for disinformation, fraud, and harassment
• Advancements in AI are enabling more realistic and convincing deepfakes, making them harder to detect

Internet and Social Media

Personalization and Algorithms

• Social media algorithms analyze user data and behavior to curate personalized content feeds (Facebook News Feed, TikTok For You page)
• Personalized content aims to deliver relevant information and recommendations based on user preferences and interests (Netflix recommendations, Spotify playlists)
• Concerns arise regarding the creation of "filter bubbles" and "echo chambers," where users are exposed primarily to content that aligns with their existing beliefs and opinions
• Algorithmic bias can perpetuate and amplify societal biases, leading to unequal representation and discrimination

Connectivity and Decentralization

• Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the interconnected network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity (smart homes, wearables)
• 5G technology promises faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and increased connectivity for devices (remote surgery, autonomous vehicles)
• Blockchain is a decentralized, distributed ledger technology that records transactions across a network of computers (Bitcoin, Ethereum)
• Decentralized systems aim to distribute power and control among users, reducing reliance on central authorities (peer-to-peer networks, decentralized finance)