In mid-May, we commemorate two World Days, focusing on the future of information societies.
On May 17th, we celebrate World Information Society Day, followed by World Internet Day on May 18th, initiated by the International Telecommunication Union. These two days bring attention to the beneficial impacts of the internet, telecommunications, and information societies, while also highlighting efforts to bridge the digital divide globally. It is an excellent opportunity to showcase how the development of information and communication technologies profoundly influences people’s lives.
In light of these events, György Beck, the President and CEO of Vodafone Hungary, shared his insights with our publication. „It is incredibly challenging to predict what opportunities the internet will offer us in this century,“ says the CEO. „I am certain that the internet will become an even more integral part of our lives – in 50 years, there will hardly be anyone who does not use it in some way.“ However, the way we use it will significantly change by then – György Beck continues. According to a recent survey, one in five Hungarian internet users is practically always online – using their desktop at work, laptop in a café, and smartphone on the go. It will be even more crucial in the future to be constantly connected to the internet. This is already easily achievable today with smartphones.
„Of course, I don’t believe that the future mobile device – let’s not call it a phone, it will be much more than that – will resemble today’s devices too much. I think that the mobile phone we know today will either become obsolete within a few decades, replaced by a new communication device, or undergo a complete transformation. Just think, who uses telegraphs or telex machines that were once widespread? Absolutely no one,“ states the head of Vodafone Hungary.
As we reflect on World Information Society Day and World Internet Day, it is evident that the evolution of information and communication technologies will continue to shape our future. The possibilities and challenges that lie ahead are vast, and it is essential to adapt and embrace the changes that come with the advancement of digital technologies.
By Miski Gábor.