At this point, it is no secret that Star Trek is a global phenomenon. The original show came out all the way back in 1966. To date, all the series combined boast a total of 900 episodes. That’s not even including the films.
The science fiction genre has a knack for predicting future technology or events, and Star Trek is no exception.
So, let’s dive into a few times Star Trek predicted technology.
Top Star Trek Predictions
1. Universal Translator
From Star Trek: The Original Series – Various Episodes 1966-1969
The universal translator is a staple piece of technology in the Star Trek universe. It allowed crew members of the Starship Enterprise to communicate with alien species in real-time, regardless of the language barrier.
We might not be communicating with extraterrestrials today. However, we do have real-world translation apps and devices. You can talk into your phone in one language, and it speaks the translation in whatever language you want!
2. Personal Access Display Device (PADD)
From Star Trek: The Next Generation – Various Episodes 1987-1994
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” introduced the Personal Access Display Device (PADD). It’s a flat, handheld computer that crew members used for various tasks, from controlling the ship’s systems to reading and sending messages.
We take tablets and smartphones for granted today, but they were way ahead of their time when they first appeared in the show.
3. Voice-Activated Computers
From Star Trek: The Original Series – Various Episodes 1966-1969
The series showcased voice-activated computer systems that could understand and execute verbal commands. This concept is now a reality with today’s voice-activated assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
These devices have become a part of our daily lives today. Just like the Star Trek crew in 1966, we have hand-free operation for a variety of tasks.
4. 3D Printers and Replicators
From Star Trek: The Next Generation – Various Episodes 1987-1994
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” introduced replicators, devices that could create objects on demand. This included food and spare parts, essentially out of thin air.
We can’t quite make objects out of thin air yet. However, the concept closely mirrors today’s 3D printers.
5. Virtual Reality
Star Trek: The Next Generation – “The Big Goodbye,” 1988
The Holodeck was first introduced in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” It was a form of virtual reality that allowed users to immerse themselves in any environment or scenario for training, education, or entertainment. This technology anticipated the development of today’s virtual reality (VR) systems.
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