Apps Unveiled

About this issue

Welcome to the hybrid future, where reality is networked. The eleventh edition of the Ericsson ConsumerLab 10 Hot Consumer Trends report outlines 10 high-tech facilities that consumers envisage in hybrid malls by 2030. The research report says, “Expect a hybrid mall just down the road from where you live — a place where AR glasses, haptic body suits, and tactile gloves are available at low cost. A place that can be programmed and adapted to an almost infinite number of activities. Welcome to the Everyspace Plaza.”

Shopping malls could be digitally enhanced to offer hybrid consumer experiences by 2030. This future could see beauty salons that are programmed to apply make-up that adapts to your surroundings; swimming pools where you can use oxygenated VR headsets to experience zero gravity; and make-your-own factories where you can select customized designs for any product. There will be restaurant chains that connect you virtually to friends in other restaurants, making it feel like you are eating together. It is not surprising to expect local medical centers in malls to have drop-in AI health-scanning equipment by 2030, which will give you an accurate health status update within minutes. Well, flip through the pages to know more about the research outcomes, which highlight what consumers expect from a hybrid mall by 2030. 

Meet app creators Dawoon Kang of Coffee Meets Bagel, Annie Vang of HmongPhrases, and Larry Liu of Weee!—from AAPI community—and learn how they used technology to transform their ideas into powerful platforms, how their apps uplift their communities, and how they influence positive change.

Also, don’t forget to check out our list of new, innovative software features—coming to your Apple device later this year— that introduce new ways for users with disabilities to navigate, connect, and get the most out of Apple products.