Leading countries shaping future of daily life

Proceeding from a recent report by BBC, residents and travelers from some of the world's top-ranked countries on the 2024 Global Innovation Index shared how cutting-edge technology is transforming everyday life. 

To highlight those nations making the biggest impact, the World Intellectual Property Organization recently published its 2024 Global Innovation Index, ranking 130 economies based on factors like their education systems, technological infrastructure, and knowledge creation (such as patents filed or mobile apps developed).

Switzerland

This small European nation has had an impressive year in the rankings, securing top positions in both the Smart Cities Index and the Global Liveability Index. So, it's perhaps not surprising that Switzerland has claimed the top spot for innovation once again. In fact, 2024 marks the 14th consecutive year that the country has maintained its number-one ranking.

Driving this achievement are Switzerland’s world-leading innovation outputs in both knowledge and technology (measured by assets such as patents, technology company valuations, and high-tech exports) and creative outputs (assessed by factors like national feature films, mobile app development, and trademarks). The country also excels in university and industry research collaboration and patents.

Sweden

Ranked second in the index, Sweden has emerged as a tech leader, especially in the AI and automotive sectors. The country’s highest scores are in infrastructure and business sophistication, closely followed by knowledge and tech outputs.

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is often called the "Unicorn Factory" due to its success in fostering tech startups like Spotify and Klarna, said Daniel Langkilde, the founder of AI company Kognic. However, he also suggests visiting Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, to truly experience the spirit of innovation in new technologies.

United States

As the home of Silicon Valley, the California hub where tech giants like Google, Apple, and Meta are based, the United States has long been a dominant force in global tech innovation. Ranking third in the index, it leads all countries in market sophistication and comes second in business sophistication. It also ranks highly for both domestic and international patent and trademark applications.

Ranked fifth in the index, the United Kingdom excels in market sophistication and creative outputs (ranked third overall), as well as knowledge and technology outputs (fifth overall). Innovation in the UK has made everyday life more convenient, with many residents highlighting the Oyster card system, which allows users to navigate London's public transportation system with a credit card or digital card. Recently, this system has been expanded to include more national rail stations, most recently adding Stansted Airport.

South Korea, ranked sixth overall in the index and leading Asia, excels in human capital and research, followed closely by its strong performance in creative outputs. Home to tech giants like Samsung and LG, and major car manufacturers such as Kia and Hyundai, the country has also been increasing its investment in startups, with venture capital growing significantly year after year. In 2023, the government launched Startup Korea, which introduced a new visa designed to make it easier for international entrepreneurs to settle in the country.

Technology is becoming an ever-larger part of daily life for both locals and visitors. AI researcher Elle Farrell-Kingsley, who frequently travels to South Korea for work, observed how even mundane tasks are enhanced by advanced tech. 

By Naila Huseynova