Loved doing some more filming work for the BBC - this time about the past... And the #future too...

I had to do it... When they asked me...

Watching Tomorrow’s World as a young, aspiring tech futurist, I couldn’t have known how closely its predictions would align with our current reality. The show’s creators had a knack for spotting trends that would change the world, and in many ways, they nailed it.

As someone who has dedicated my career to exploring the future of work, technology, and AI, as keynote speaker for conferences and corporations, it’s fascinating to reflect on how those predictions shaped my thinking and the technology we now take for granted.

As I said, in one of the out takes:

"Tomorrow’s World wasn’t just TV—it was a crystal ball for my generation, inspiring us to imagine the future and, more importantly, to build it."

So what did they talk about on the show, 30 years ago?

The Internet: The Backbone of Modern Life

One standout moment from Tomorrow’s World was Stephen Hawking’s assertion that the internet could be “switched off.” At the time, the internet was perceived as something fragile and centralized, almost experimental. Today, the internet has evolved into something much more profound.

"The internet is no longer a tool we use; it’s the digital bloodstream of humanity—always on, always connected."

Mobile phones cemented that relationship. Most of us keep our devices within arm’s reach, turning our lives into a 24/7 stream of digital interactions. But maybe the question isn’t can we switch it off?—it’s should we disconnect sometimes?

Cybersecurity: A Predicted Battlefield

Another prescient moment came with Tomorrow’s World’s coverage of “cyberspace riots” and hacking. They foresaw the chaos that could emerge from unregulated digital spaces—and they were right. Cybersecurity is now one of the defining challenges of the digital age.

"Hacking was inevitable, but now, with AI in the mix, cybersecurity is no longer just about protecting systems—it’s about safeguarding society."

The shift toward personal attacks, driven by AI-powered hacking tools, makes the stakes higher than ever. Today, cybersecurity isn’t just an industry—it’s a necessity for everyone. As talked about in my conference talk for Stone Computer Group.

Banking Automation: Where Tech Meets Trust

The show also predicted the automation of banking, and they were right. Today, we barely visit branches. Banking happens on apps, with algorithms handling everything from budgeting to fraud detection. But as automation increases, people miss the human connection.

"Banking has become digital-first, but it’s emotional intelligence in AI that’s bringing back the trust and human connection we thought we’d lost."

This blend of automation and empathy is redefining what we expect from financial services.

Virtual Reality: From Sci-Fi to Reality

Who could forget the Tomorrow’s World feature on VR? At the time, the clunky headsets were quirky at best, but today VR and AR have surpassed those early predictions. Whether it’s training doctors in simulated surgeries or providing gamers with immersive experiences, VR is a thriving industry.

"VR has gone from clunky headsets to transforming industries like healthcare and education—immersing us in experiences that were once unimaginable."

What’s next? AI-powered avatars that don’t just respond but understand. These tools will revolutionize how we work and connect. And yes, while floating heads were fun for the 90s, I think we’ll all prefer avatars with shoulders—just feels more natural, doesn’t it?

Emotional Intelligence in AI: The True Game Changer

One of the most transformative trends today is the evolution of AI’s emotional intelligence. Back in the 90s, the concept of emotionally aware chatbots was theoretical at best. Now, it’s a reality.

"Emotional AI isn’t just understanding your feelings; it’s responding in ways that create genuine human connection—without judgment, without fatigue."

This shift is reshaping industries, from mental health support to customer service, making technology more human than ever.

Driverless Cars: The Next Big Shift

The show’s predictions about driverless cars and hyperfast transport captured imaginations. And while we’re seeing progress with autonomous vehicles, hyperfast transport remains elusive. Why? Cost, infrastructure, and regulation are immense hurdles.

"Driverless cars are on the brink of changing how we live and work—turning vehicles into mobile offices and rethinking the very idea of car ownership."

This transformation will go beyond transportation, reshaping urban planning, reducing congestion, and redefining our relationship with mobility.

The Bigger Picture: The Fifth Industrial Revolution

The brilliance of Tomorrow’s World wasn’t just in its predictions—it was in how it made us think. It wasn’t about the technology itself but about its impact on humanity. And that’s the essence of the #FifthIndustrialRevolution.

"The Fifth Industrial Revolution isn’t just about tech—it’s about humanity. We’re not just in a digital transformation; we’re in a human transformation."

As I often say, the technologies of the future—AI, VR, automation—aren’t just tools. They’re bridges, connecting us in ways we never thought possible.

The Future Is Ours to Build

Reflecting on Tomorrow’s World reminds us that predictions are only as valuable as the actions they inspire. The #FifthIndustrialRevolution isn’t just about what’s possible—it’s about what’s meaningful. It’s about using technology to solve problems, connect communities, and create opportunities for everyone.

For more insights into the FifthIndustrialRevolution and the FutureOfWork, visit www.thefifthindustrialrevolution.co.uk or www.dansodergren.com. Let’s shape tomorrow, together.

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