Technology has been evolving faster than ever in recent years, and the predicted 2023 tech trends in Southeast Asia look set to alter the digital landscape further. The pandemic has not slowed industrial development but created many opportunities for businesses and startups to explore new technology. During the COVID crisis, people relied more on digital technology to help with their daily lives, and recent top tech trends emerged.

Here are some of the top 2023 tech trends likely to shake things up.

Data trust models

According to Accenture, the number of cyberattacks grew significantly in the first half of 2021, with a 125% increase recorded. With more users consuming more data, database leaks have increased in tandem. The leaks affected many big and small companies, forcing them to enhance their cybersecurity to prevent future attacks.


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This increase in attacks resulted in the introduction of data trust models as a new approach to security by using an independent third party to ensure data is appropriately managed and not monopolised. It enables organisations to connect their data securely and create a new shared data repository.

Wi-Fi 6 and 5G

The global rollout of 5G continues, improving mobile broadband and enabling quicker downloads. The latest iteration, Wi-Fi 6, is now in development and is similar to 5G, except that it replaces the older frequency with 6Ghz, which makes it possible to distribute the internet with high volume capacity. Those who work in large corporations can benefit from stable high-speed internet without any delays. However, it will take some time before the 5G network and subsequent upgrades are implemented worldwide.

A recent poll from Deloitte stated that 86% of networking executives believed that advanced wireless technology would bring significant change to their organisation in the next three years. Next-gen higher connection speeds will help get work done faster in a short time.

3D printing

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has become the number one alternative to traditional production processes. Unlike older manufacturing methods, 3D printing creates three-dimensional objects by placing materials layer-by-layer to create the desired output. Thermoplastics such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), metals, resins, and ceramics are the most commonly used 3D printing materials. This method is very cost-effective, productive and potentially eco-friendly. One real estate development firm saved builders’ time and constructed an entire net-zero microdistrict in California’s Coachella Valley.

According to Grand View Research, the global 3D printing market is likely to be worth USD 76.17 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth rate of more than 20.8% from 2022 to 2030. 

VR and AR

Interaction with data has become more accessible, thanks partly to simulated reality, which was once considered pure science fiction. With new digital innovations, it is possible to create realistic simulations and scenarios without requiring expensive resources. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) developments enable users to fully immerse in the digital world while perceiving and manipulating the given data. 

Statista reports that the AR and VR market reached USD 28 billion in 2021, and current expectations see it rising to USD 250 billion by the end of 2028. This technology is widely used in the education field to assist students in understanding the practical aspects of the theory, particularly in healthcare training, where it is helpful for surgeons to practice performing operations. 

Computing as a Service

Computing as a service is a cloud technology that allows the allocation of space on a server rather than a computer’s local hard drive. Cloud computing has brought about massive shifts in data storage for large corporations and even in personal computing in recent years as it aids in reducing network overload on the local network. Users can readily access available software applications and pay for the amount of storage space or capacity they need using a subscription plan.

With the increased use of edge computing, a service that offers decentralised data storage through its architecture rather than through software, computing will likely see a massive uptick in use in the coming years. According to Grand View Research, the edge computing market should reach USD 155.9 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 38.9%. 

Furthermore, an Analysys Mason survey stated that most top operators (87%) feel that edge computing is a “top strategic priority” for their company in the near future. 

Following the top tech trends can be difficult in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing business world. While the above article includes some of the 2023 top tech trends in Southeast Asia to look out for, others are likely to emerge as the digital landscape continues to evolve. Metaverse technology and the use of decentralised ledgers will also be some of the top 2023 tech trends as more startups embrace the capabilities of the online world and blockchain as they continue to develop their products and services for our increasingly digital world.