Amazon CTO Werner Vogels has shared his predictions for 2025 and beyond, and they're not what you might expect. Instead of focusing solely on artificial intelligence, Vogels' vision for the future of technology is centered around sustainability, social responsibility, and combating misinformation.

In an exclusive interview, Vogels emphasized the importance of companies prioritizing sustainability and making a positive impact on the world. He believes that the next generation of workers will bring a new mindset to the companies they work for, and that these companies will need to adapt to attract the best talent. "It's no longer about what's the salary I'm getting? Because I'm willing to give up some of it if the work I'm doing means something," Vogels said.

Vogels also highlighted the need for technologists to take responsibility for combating misinformation. He noted that social media platforms have become a primary source of news, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between what's true and false. Vogels suggested that solutions like browser sidebars displaying relevant context and academic research could be helpful in this regard.

Another key area of focus for Vogels is open data for disaster preparedness. He believes that access to open data can help NGOs improve their disaster response by building better maps and tracking wildfires in real-time. Vogels also noted that organizations doing open-source intelligence work often lack access to advanced technology, and that automating tasks like image recognition could be a game-changer.

Vogels also touched on the issue of tech addiction, citing the example of parents giving their children iPads to keep them occupied. He believes that this can lead to a cycle of continuous highs and a greater risk of addiction later in life. Vogels suggested that technologists have a responsibility to ensure that their applications aren't addictive, and that simpler interfaces could be a step in the right direction.

In a somewhat unexpected turn, Vogels also discussed the potential of nuclear energy to drive innovation and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. He noted that small nuclear reactors, like those used to power military submarines, could be a viable option for powering cities in the future.

Overall, Vogels' predictions for 2025 and beyond paint a picture of a more sustainable, socially responsible tech industry. While his vision may not be universally adopted, it's clear that Vogels is committed to driving positive change and encouraging others to do the same.