The 8 technologies that will shape 2025

The year 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in technological evolution, marking a turning point in how we interact, work, and live. According to recent data, technology investments are expected to reach record levels, with a compound annual growth rate of over 10% in sectors like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy. This outlook not only reflects confidence in the transformative potential of these areas but also their capacity to tackle major global challenges, from climate change to healthcare.

Within this context, the concept of Deeptech is emerging as a driver of change, blending cutting-edge science with practical applications in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and nanotechnology, among others. These emerging technologies are redefining industries while laying the groundwork for a more innovative and sustainable future. Despite facing challenges such as funding, deeptech startups are leading disruptive solutions, including long-lasting batteries and advanced materials for electric mobility.

Here are the eight technologies set to define 2025:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
AI will continue to lead technological advancements and innovation, with the global market projected to reach $1.8 trillion. In countries like the United States and China, investments in AI will account for over 50% of global spending, driving progress in sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. In Spain, €500 million has been allocated to the National AI Plan, focusing on adaptive models for medical diagnostics, business optimization, and personalized education. Additionally, AI-driven automation is expected to boost global productivity by 40%, generating over 97 million specialized jobs.

Key applications of this technology are likely to emerge in healthcare, such as early disease diagnosis, accelerated drug development, and remote patient monitoring; in education, through adaptive learning platforms tailored to individual student needs; and in business, with tools for data-driven decision-making and automation of repetitive tasks using RPA (Robotic Process Automation). Generative AI technologies like ChatGPT and DALL·E will continue transforming creative industries, enhancing productivity in areas such as design, advertising, and audiovisual production.

2. Cybersecurity
The rise in digitalization comes with an increase in cyber threats. By 2025, cybersecurity will be a strategic priority for companies and governments, focusing not only on prevention but also on rapid recovery from security breaches.

The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach $300 billion in 2025, growing at an annual rate of 15%. In Spain, the sector is expected to grow 20% annually, driven by the Digital Spain 2025 Plan, which allocates €1.4 billion for protecting critical infrastructure and securing business digitalization.
Additionally, the second edition of the Cybersecurity Startup Program, organized by INCIBE and Startup Valencia, strengthens support for startups leading in cybersecurity, emphasizing both prevention and recovery for safe digitalization.

3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Though traditionally associated with gaming, VR and AR will have a far-reaching impact in 2025. These technologies will transform sectors like education, enabling immersive learning simulations, and industry, where augmented reality will optimize design and manufacturing processes.
The global market is expected to triple, reaching $160 billion by 2025. In Europe, these technologies are projected to generate €20 billion in annual added value.

The metaverse will also play a key role, evolving as a hybrid space between physical and digital realms, with applications in commerce, collaborative work, and entertainment.

4. Quantum Computing
Quantum computing will make significant strides in 2025, with applications in cryptography, molecular simulation for medicine, and logistics optimization. Companies and startups are investing in this technology to solve problems that previously required years of computation using the most powerful classical computers.

Though still in its early stages, the sector could generate an economic impact of $850 billion by 2030, according to Boston Consulting Group. In Spain, developments are part of the Quantum Spain program, which has an initial budget of €22 million.

5. Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is emerging as a disruptive tool across multiple sectors, from creating stronger, lighter materials to advances in medicine, such as nanorobots delivering drugs directly to affected cells. By 2025, developments in this field will be crucial for sustainability applications like water purification and clean energy production.

The global nanotechnology market is projected to reach $125 billion in 2025. According to the OECD, countries investing in nanotechnology could see annual GDP growth of up to 2%.

6. Photonics
Photonics will be at the forefront of innovations in telecommunications, energy, and healthcare. By 2025, this technology is expected to drive advancements such as faster internet, precision biomedical sensors, and more energy-efficient devices.

In Europe, photonics is estimated to contribute over €100 billion to GDP, with Spain being one of the leading manufacturers of optical components.

7. Biotechnology
Biotechnology addresses critical challenges in health and sustainability. For instance, with genetic editing (CRISPR), we will develop treatments tailored to each patient’s genetics. Climate-resistant crops and lab-grown foods, requiring less land and water, are also within reach.

The global biotech market is expected to reach $2.4 trillion in 2025, growing annually at 12%.

8. Renewable Energy and Clean Technologies
With the climate crisis as a backdrop, 2025 will be a pivotal year for renewable energy. Innovations such as more efficient batteries, next-generation solar panels, and AI-driven grid management will pave the way for sustainable energy transitions.

Global investments in this sector are projected to exceed $1.3 trillion. In Spain, renewables will create 250,000 direct jobs by 2025, with an annual investment of €6.8 billion in projects like the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), aiming for 74% renewable electricity generation by 2030.

This promising year is poised to offer vast opportunities across these high-potential technologies, fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in the startup ecosystem.