During 2018, much of the technology news seemed to focus on data security. The Facebook/Cambridge Analytica scandal saw 87 million social media users’ details made available to the research agency without consent. Big businesses announced data breaches or miss-use, including Amazon, Uber and Marriott. Plus, the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) arrived in May 2018, affecting how business can capture, store and use EU citizens’ personal data.

With so many developments during 2018, what technology trends are forecast for the coming year? Here are some exciting predictions for 2019:

1. 5G Signal for Mobile Networks

5G is the new standard for mobile networks that promises increased broadband speed and reliability. According to The Daily Telegraph, EE will begin switching on its 5G signal in 16 cities in 2019, including London and Cardiff. Vodafone, Three and O2 have also announced plans to move over to the faster connection. To make the most of this technology you need a smartphone that can receive a 5G signal; these are planned for 2020.

2. Space Travel

Perhaps the most exciting tech potential for 2019 is the reality of passenger flights to space. Virgin Galactic’s recent trials were successful, with Sir Richard Branson talking of a March 2019 timescale for his first ‘commercial’ flight to space. SpaceX and Blue Origin join Virgin Galactic in the race to space tourism.

3. Smartphones

Several new technologies are predicted for smartphones this year:

• Samsung is expected to announce its folding smartphone – dubbed as either the Galaxy X, F or Fold. Google is said to be creating software to support the handset, hinting that the technology could find its way to other device makers, too.

• 3D sensors are coming to smartphones. Sony has started to push new, improved 3D sensors for better-than-ever face unlocking, plus more depth and new features. “Cameras revolutionized phones, and based on what I’ve seen, I have the same expectation for 3D,” says Yoshihara Satoshi, head of Sony’s sensor division.

• We will see more creative ways to disguise the infamous “notch” – the small indent at the top of a smartphone screen housing its front-facing cameras and sensors, reports The Week. Samsung and Huawei have kickstarted this latest smartphone trend with a new type of display that features a new style of selfie camera.

4. Automation

From convenient devices at home to industrial applications on a massive scale, automation will be a key focus of technological change in 2019. Core technical skills together with management and people skills being more important than ever. Does your team have the skills set needed to embrace the opportunities of technology?