2017 Event Tech Trends: Where Are They Now? (Mobile)

Welcome back to our final installment of Where Are They Now?, a look back on our 2017 event tech trend predictions. If you missed last week’s installment, you can check it out here. As a reminder, here are the trends we found last year and what we’ve already covered:

1. Virtual Sourcing: virtually find the perfect event venue, from the comfort of your desk
2. Google Cardboard: transport attendees anywhere in the world (and beyond!)
3. Holograms: wow your attendees with your smartphone
4. Beacons: personalize and track attendee experiences
5. Live Q&A and Polling: increase engagement at your events
6. Livestreaming: engage attendees beyond your event
7. Mobile: make mobile a priority at your events

We've talked about the first six trends and seen that, for the most part, they’ve all been pretty spot on. Although each trend is unique, they all have one major connection – mobile. It seems like every day you hear about a new app that will simplify your life. From ride sharing and meal prep services to planning and mobile event apps, your phone can make everything easier. Since we made our 2017 predictions, new apps and new phones have been released with awesome new and advanced capabilities. Take the iPhone X, for example, which offers new AR features that allow your phone to do more than ever before. Mobile has played a major role in our lives for years, especially at events. It is the number one way to stay connected with your attendees and keep attendees engaged during your event. The question is, what is the best way to utilize mobile at events? There are so many ways to use mobile and one of the most popular ways has been through the use of mobile event apps. Mobile event apps are no longer an indication of a technologically advanced event but are an expectation. If you don't already use a mobile event app, opt to use one at your next event. CrowdCompass by Cvent is a mobile event app that has seen increasing adoption throughout 2017.  If you do use a mobile event app, review the tech trends we talked about and see how you can bolster your mobile strategy. Incorporate live polling to get your attendee's feedback instantaneously. Use appropriately placed beacons so you can always be in communication with your attendees. Test out AR/VR to wow your attendees with a new tech experience. Use a mobile event app to keep your attendees engaged and focused on your event. The tech we’ve discussed may be last year’s trends, but that doesn’t mean they’re no longer relevant. In fact, the trends we talked about are only going to continue to grow and develop. Our trends for 2018 may be different, but they are sure to include mobile as a backdrop. Interested in going mobile? Let us help you decide what the right mobile option is for you and your event. What did you think of our 2017 tech trends - did we miss any? Do you use any of these technologies at your events or have you seen them being used? Share in the comments below!