Welcome to 2025!
The Cambridge Tech Podcast, hosted by Faye Holland and James Parton, kicks off the year with their much-anticipated annual predictions episode, featuring insights from Deloitte’s tech, media, and telecom (TMT) experts Ben Stanton and Paul Lee. If you’re a tech entrepreneur or a venture capitalist keeping an eye on what’s next, this episode is a must-listen.
Here’s a snapshot of the discussion, focusing on the trends that will shape the technology landscape in 2025 and beyond.
The Big Themes of 2025
Deloitte’s 2025 predictions span three main areas:
Generative AI (GenAI): The largest bucket, with five standout predictions.
Media, Entertainment, and Sports: Innovations in streaming, stadium infrastructure, and AI’s role in film production.
Tech and Telecoms: Developments in telecom consolidation and cost-saving strategies in cloud computing.
Highlights from the Predictions
Generative AI Takes the Lead
Data Centres and Energy Efficiency: By 2025, data centres will consume 2% of global energy, a figure projected to double by 2030. Ben highlighted the need for sustainable practices, stating, “We need to become a lot more efficient in how we use data centres.”
AI Adoption Among Women: The gender gap in GenAI usage is closing, with parity expected by the end of the year. “It’s a positive trend we’re excited to see,” Ben remarked.
On-Device AI: The push for AI-integrated hardware is predicted to boost smartphone sales by 7% this year, driven by features that enhance user experience.
AI Agents and Deepfakes: The market for deepfake detection will grow to $16 billion by 2026, underscoring the importance of ethical AI applications.
Media and Entertainment Evolve
Streaming platforms are plateauing at 2.5 subscriptions per UK household. Expect partnerships with telcos and utility companies to drive growth.
AI in filmmaking remains niche, with only 3% of production budgets allocated to GenAI applications in 2025.
Tech and Telecom Trends
Cloud Cost Reduction (FinOps): Companies will save up to $21 billion this year through dedicated FinOps teams. Ben shared a compelling story: “In one 30-minute meeting, a software engineer identified savings worth six times their annual salary.”
Telecom Consolidation: Over 400 M&A deals are expected globally in the sector, with a focus on reducing market fragmentation.
Looking Back at 2024
Reflecting on last year’s predictions, Ben and Paul scored mixed results:
Wins: Women’s elite sports surpassed revenue expectations, generating over $1 billion.
Misses: GenAI enterprise revenue fell short of projections, while chip spending exceeded forecasts.
Why You Should Listen
This episode is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking analysis, making it a goldmine for tech leaders navigating an ever-changing landscape. As Paul noted, “Solutions exist for many challenges; it’s about finding the will and business case to implement them.”
Key Takeaways
The energy footprint of tech, especially AI, is a pressing issue.
AI adoption is broadening but still faces barriers like reliability and societal trust.
Cost optimisation in cloud computing is not just a trend but a necessity.
Quantum computing implications for cybersecurity remains an area to watch, though not an immediate priority for most businesses.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Listen to the full episode for a detailed exploration of these predictions and more. Access Deloitte’s full TMT Predictions report via their website or your favourite search engine.
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