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How APAC is rewriting the emerging technology adoption playbook

Thu, 24th Jul 2025

The Asia Pacific (APAC) region is emerging as a leader in adopting and scaling emerging technologies, flipping the script from being a follower to a global innovator. According to Forrester's analysis of the top 10 emerging technologies, APAC is actively building the future in the following areas.

Humanoid Robotics: From Novelty To Necessity

Japan and South Korea have made significant strides in humanoid robotics. Japan's Henn-na Hotel uses robotic concierges and fully automated services, showcasing robots as integral to hospitality operations. South Korea's LG CLOi robots assist in hospitals and retail spaces, performing tasks like cleaning and security. China's UBTECH Robotics and AgiBot are mass-deploying intelligent robots in metro stations, museums, and airports, signaling a shift from pilot projects to large-scale automation.

Quantum Networks: Securing The Future

Forrester's Networks, Wireless, Edge, And IoT Survey, 2024, reveals that over 65% of APAC respondents are adopting or planning to adopt quantum networks. China leads globally with a 2,000-kilometer quantum network connecting major cities and the Micius quantum satellite, creating unhackable data transmission. These advancements are setting global benchmarks and shaping cybersecurity in the government, finance, and energy sectors.

Generative AI: Beyond Language To Visual Mastery

Generative AI is thriving in APAC. India's startups like Sarvam AI and initiatives such as BharatGPT are building language models to serve the country's 22 official languages, increasing accessibility for non-English speakers. Japan uses generative AI in animation studios to streamline production timelines, while South Korea's marketing agencies create hyperlocalized campaigns. China's eCommerce platforms employ generative AI for personalized product descriptions and visuals, enhancing customer engagement.

Agentic AI: Enabling Autonomous Actions

APAC is leading in agentic AI, which makes autonomous real-time decisions. Australia's financial institutions deploy AI agents for portfolio management, while Southeast Asia's logistics firms pilot AI-driven delivery systems that adjust based on traffic and weather. India's smart campuses use agentic AI for energy management and operations, turning static environments into intelligent systems.

Smart Cities And Urban Intelligence

Singapore remains a global model for smart cities with its Virtual Singapore project, an AI-powered 3D digital twin of the city. It aids planners, researchers, and emergency services in virtual policy testing. AI optimizes traffic and bus schedules, reducing congestion and wait times, while energy systems and public safety measures benefit from predictive AI insights.

Edge Computing: Bringing Intelligence To The Source

APAC is deploying edge computing infrastructure to process data closer to users. Southeast Asia's manufacturing hubs use edge-enabled IoT platforms for precision monitoring and real-time optimization. Taiwan and South Korea integrate edge computing with 5G for AR/VR experiences, autonomous vehicles, and gaming. Singapore leverages edge computing for surveillance and smart grid operations. According to Forrester's Networks, Wireless, Edge, And IoT Survey, 2024, security, data management, and IT remit remain key challenges.

IoT Security: Fortifying The Connected World

Forrester's Security Survey, 2025, highlights IoT security as a concern for 32% of respondents. APAC nations are enhancing cybersecurity frameworks. The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore enforces strict IoT security measures, South Korea deploys AI-driven adaptive detection systems, and Vietnam develops secure IoT chipsets domestically to reduce reliance on external suppliers. These efforts reflect a proactive approach to next-gen security.

Synthetic Data: Fueling AI Without Compromise

Synthetic data is essential for AI training amid privacy regulations. China and India use regulatory sandboxes to simulate real-world conditions for safe AI testing, especially in finance and insurance. Japan employs synthetic patient data to train AI diagnostic tools while ensuring compliance with strict health data protocols, balancing innovation with privacy.

TuringBots: Accelerating Software Development

TuringBots - AI-powered code assistants - are transforming software development in APAC. Companies such as Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys utilize TuringBots to enhance developer efficiency and reduce defects. These tools are embedded across industries like banking and telecom, accelerating innovation. Universities in India and Australia are integrating TuringBot training into curricula, preparing students for AI-assisted programming.

Autonomous Mobility: Driving The Future

APAC is advancing autonomous mobility solutions. Chinese company Baidu's Apollo Go operates robotaxi services in cities like Beijing and Shenzhen. Singapore pilots self-driving buses and delivery robots under regulated testbeds, while South Korea invests in autonomous vehicles for urban and rural logistics, integrating these innovations into public service delivery.

From robotics and generative AI to quantum networks and TuringBots, APAC is defining the next wave of technological advancement. With visionary policies, agile startups, strong public-private collaboration, and strategic investments, APAC is not just adopting technologies - it is rewriting the global playbook for innovation.

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