What’s New? Technology is a Gift — and a Curse

It’s a question we toss around in conversations, sometimes as a mere social nicety, and sometimes with genuine curiosity. In today’s fast-paced world, where change seems to be the only constant, staying updated on what’s new isn’t just about keeping up with the latest gossip or trends — it’s about staying relevant and informed, particularly in the realm of technology.

For some, staying abreast of technological advancements isn’t merely a hobby; it’s a necessity. We live in an age where technology is in almost every aspect of our lives, from the way we communicate and work to how we entertain ourselves and manage our daily routines. And as much as some of us may resist being labeled as “tech geeks,” there’s an undeniable draw to understanding and embracing the latest innovations. I, for one, don’t like to be left behind in the latest slang the kids use (are we still calling each other “bruh” or nah?), so I for sure don’t want to miss what is new in the ever-changing world of tech.

Why this relentless pursuit of the new and the novel? Perhaps it’s driven by a desire to remain competitive in an increasingly digital world, where outdated skills and knowledge can quickly render us obsolete. Or maybe it’s fueled by a genuine fascination with the never-ending possibilities that technology offers — a sense of wonder at the sheer genius of human creativity.

But beyond personal motivations lies a broader societal issue. The pace of technological advancement has accelerated at a very quick rate, bringing with it both promise and peril. On one hand, we love the convenience and efficiency that technology affords us, from AI-powered virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa to the many apps that simplify our daily tasks. Yet, on the other hand, we grapple with ethical dilemmas surrounding privacy, security, and the potential for misuse of these powerful tools.

Indeed, the seemingly omnipresence of technology in our lives has raised profound questions about the nature of privacy and surveillance. The presence of smart devices with their always-on microphones and cameras has led many to speculate about the extent to which our conversations and activities are being monitored and analyzed. Just how does Instagram know that I was just talking about a treatment for migraines? The line between convenience and intrusion has never been blurrier, and with that comes a feeling for me of tech being the gift and the curse. Don’t even get me started on AI.

In the face of these challenges, we must approach innovation and technology with a critical yet open-minded perspective. I’ll try not to succumb to the allure of novelty for its own sake but rather strive to harness the power of technology for the greater good. This requires thoughtful dialogue and collaboration across disciplines, as well as a commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable digital future.

So the next time someone asks, “What’s new?” let’s not dismiss it as mere small talk. Instead, embrace the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the ever-evolving landscape of innovation and technology. 

Adonica Coleman is the founder of The COMO 411 and owner of A2D Events.