Affiliate Industry
2025 Tech Trends Report: Info-Tech Research Group Unveils New Insights on the Future of AI, Quantum Computing, and Cybersecurity
Info-Tech Research Group’s newly released Tech Trends 2025 report highlights six pivotal trends poised to transform the IT landscape in the coming year. As the pace of technological innovation accelerates and organisations are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities, the firm’s report provides insights into how IT leaders can harness technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and cybersecurity while mitigating the risks they introduce.
Historically, chief information officers (CIOs) have been tasked with preserving the integrity of an organisation’s past through meticulous recordkeeping. However, in 2025, the global IT research and advisory firm reports that the role of the CIO will evolve as the focus shifts from maintaining the past to forecasting the future. With the rise of generative AI and the impending era of quantum computing, Info-Tech explains that CIOs will need to increasingly adopt forward-thinking strategies to anticipate and simulate future business scenarios.
‘Across the UK, we’re witnessing a transformative shift driven by technological advancements, including in both AI and quantum computing,’ says Nora Fisher, senior vice president of global market programs at Info-Tech Research Group. ‘Sectors such as financial services and healthcare are harnessing the potential of generative AI to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency. As organisations continue to embrace AI-driven innovations, balancing data security, privacy, and governance remains a top priority.’
The Tech Trends 2025 report is informed by Info-Tech’s Future of IT 2025 survey. The survey gathered responses from nearly 1,000 IT decision-makers globally between March and July 2024, with contributions from key regions such as the UK, the United States, Canada, and APAC, and representation from 17 industries, including financial services, healthcare, government, and manufacturing. In addition, expert interviews conducted with representatives from organisations such as the Blockchain Research Institue, Nubinary, Kyield, SAS, Xprize Quantum, IBM Quantum Industry & Technical Services, HP Inc., Voices.com, SWEAR, and the University of British Columbia offer in-depth case studies and real-world examples of how organisations are navigating these trends.
‘At the intersection of digital transformation and exponential AI growth, IT leaders are entering a new era where forecasting probable futures will be just as critical as reporting on the past,’ says Brian Jackson, principal research director and lead author of the report. ‘Our 2025 Tech Trends report provides a roadmap for organisations to harness AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity solutions to stay ahead of the curve.’
The six key tech trends identified by Info-Tech Research Group for 2025 are:
- AI Avatars and Chatbots:
Generative AI is making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between human and AI-generated interactions. AI avatars and chatbots, now integrated into many enterprise systems, are transforming user experiences and the way organisations handle customer service, software development, and marketing. However, the rise of deepfakes presents new security threats, raising the need for robust AI detection and defence mechanisms. According to Info-Tech’s Future of IT 2025 survey, 70% of respondents are already using generative AI chatbots, with Microsoft Copilot leading adoption at 78.84%. - Deepfake Defense:
With the increasing sophistication of AI-generated digital humans, deepfakes are becoming a powerful tool for fraud and misinformation. IT leaders are prioritising AI-powered detection tools and content authentication methods, such as blockchain, to combat the rising threat of AI-powered cyberattacks and ensure the integrity of their data. AI ranks as the second-most disruptive force to business operations, just behind talent shortages, with a disruption risk score of 3.55 out of 5, according to Info-Tech’s findings. - Quantum Advantage:
Quantum computing has moved beyond theoretical exploration and is now accessible through cloud platforms, enabling real-world business experiments. As organisations begin leveraging quantum hardware to solve complex problems, industries such as media, government, and financial services are leading the charge in quantum investments. Thirty-three percent of organisations in the media, telecom, and technology sectors are investing in quantum computing, followed by 27% in the public sector and 20% in financial services. - Post-Quantum Cryptography:
With the threat of quantum computers breaking current encryption methods looming on the horizon, organisations must prepare for “Q-day.” The adoption of post-quantum cryptography is now a critical priority, particularly for industries handling sensitive data, such as finance, healthcare, and government. Info-Tech reports that 31% of advanced IT departments plan to invest in post-quantum cryptography before the end of 2025, compared to 16% of average IT departments. This preparedness is critical as organisations face increasing risks from ‘Harvest Now, Decrypt Later’ cyberattacks. - Expert Models:
As AI matures, organisations are increasingly developing custom AI models tailored to their specific industries. These expert models improve the accuracy and relevance of AI outputs, enabling businesses to derive exponential value from AI investments. Info-Tech reports that 80% of high-maturity IT departments, or “Transformers,” have already invested in AI or plan to do so by the end of 2025, compared to 72% of average IT departments. Higher maturity firms are also twice as likely to expect exponential value from AI by 2025. - AI Sovereignty:
While AI offers significant opportunities, it also poses risks to industries such as music, news, and customer service. The firm explains in the report that organisations are focusing on balancing AI adoption with governance and control to protect sensitive data, reduce costs, and ensure AI performance. By 2026, more companies will run localised AI models to improve cost-effectiveness and maintain control over their AI initiatives. Privacy and security concerns top the list of factors influencing AI investment decisions, with 65% of respondents citing it as a key consideration.
‘Our survey data and expert interviews show a clear path forward for organisations to not only adopt these emerging technologies but also navigate the challenges they bring,’ says Jackson. ‘By understanding the risks and opportunities associated with AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity, IT leaders can make informed decisions that will drive both innovation and security.’
As organisations prepare for the future of IT, Info-Tech’s Tech Trends 2025 report provides the strategic guidance needed to stay competitive and secure. From leveraging AI avatars and quantum computing to safeguarding data with post-quantum cryptography, the firm advises that IT leaders must act now to future-proof their operations in the coming months.
Download and read the full Tech Trends 2025 report for more insights for the year ahead.
For media inquiries or interview requests with Brian Jackson, lead author of the 2024 report and an expert on emerging technology trends, please contact [email protected].
Affiliate Industry
ReferOn Earns Dual Nominations for Innovation and Marketing Excellence at SiGMA Euro-Med Awards 2025
The company continues its growth in 2025 with key industry recognition
ReferOn, a next-gen affiliate management platform has been shortlisted for the “Affiliate Product Innovation” and “Best Marketing Solution Provider” categories at the upcoming SiGMA Euro-Med Awards 2025.
These nominations come after an important year for the company, defined by strong market traction, continuous product development, and an increased demand from operators and affiliate managers looking to transition from outdated legacy platforms to a more agile, transparent, and scalable solution.
Since its launch, the ReferOn team has demonstrated its commitment to solving real problems for affiliate teams. At the core of its value propositions is creating a simple and accessible platform that’s built for modern needs. Core developments like full-cycle automation, customisable dashboards, instant postbacks, and real-time data visibility help to reduce chaos and boost performance. Additionally, tools like the Sub-Affiliate System, No Bundling Model, and dynamic variables assist with increased operational control.
Vlad Bondarenko, ReferOn’s Head of Product, commented on the nominations, “We didn’t build ReferOn to compete with legacy platforms — we built it to replace them. Every development, addition, and decision is guided by the goal of empowering our users to move faster, make more insightful decisions, and scale efficiently. These nominations have shown us that we’re moving in the right direction and that our incredible team is working towards something truly impactful.”
ReferOn’s roadmap remains ambitious and future-focused, with numerous investments in product developments, customer-facing services, and initiatives that help affiliate teams act faster and move smarter.
Voting for the SiGMA Euro-Med Awards 2025 is now open.
The post ReferOn Earns Dual Nominations for Innovation and Marketing Excellence at SiGMA Euro-Med Awards 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Affiliate Industry
First Look Games and Evoplay Partner to Bring 250+ Award-Winning Titles to Global Affiliate Network
Empowering affiliates with instant access to certified marketing tools and demo content
First Look Games, the London-based B2B marketing platform empowering iGaming game studios, has announced a new partnership with Evoplay, the acclaimed Cyprus-based game developer known for pioneering 2D, 3D and instant casino content. The partnership takes effect immediately.
Founded in 2018, First Look Games enables game studios to distribute certified marketing assets, demo games, and game information to a network of over 1000 approved affiliated publishers who collectively reach more than 40 million players worldwide. The platform offers advanced reporting tools including Accuracy Management and Sentiment Analysis, which are set up to bring unique insights to game studios to support their growth.
Evoplay, established in 2017, has built a reputation for cutting-edge content and next-generation gameplay. Its portfolio of over 250 titles – including player favourites like the Penalty Shoot-out trilogy, The Greatest Catch Bonus Buy, Elven Princesses, and Star Guardians – has earned widespread recognition and a strong presence across regulated markets.
Through this partnership, Evoplay’s complete catalogue is now available to First Look Games’ affiliate network. Affiliates gain instant access to promotional materials, demo links, and game information to deliver accurate, engaging & compliant content. The collaboration aims to expand Evoplay’s market reach, support growth in new jurisdictions, and set higher standards for compliance and review quality.
Partnership Benefits
- Faster time to market for Evoplay releases
- Access to high-quality visuals, game sheets, and demo tools
- Enhanced compliance and Accuracy Management features
- Support for expansion into new regulated markets
The partnership meets the rising demand for streamlined content distribution. Affiliates will have instant access to accurate marketing materials and compliance documentation, enabling them to serve their audiences more effectively while maintaining regulatory standards.
Diana Larina, Head of Marketing at Evoplay, said: “We are excited to start working with First Look Games. We’re confident that their extensive publisher network will enhance the visibility of our dynamic portfolio, allowing even more players to discover and enjoy the premium entertainment Evoplay is known for.”
Tom Galanis CEO of First Look Games said: “We have watched Evoplay grow and grow its market share for some time now, so I am thrilled to welcome the team to the First Look Games platform, enabling access for publishers to their innovative game content to support that growth even further. We look forward to sharing the insights Evoplay’s presence on the platform delivers for them.”
The post First Look Games and Evoplay Partner to Bring 250+ Award-Winning Titles to Global Affiliate Network appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
SBC has announced the debut shortlist for the inaugural Affiliate Leaders Awards – a new ceremony spotlighting the companies shaping affiliate marketing’s next chapter. This time, it’s the public who holds the power, with open voting deciding which nominees will be celebrated on stage in Lisbon this September.
The ceremony will welcome 600 industry leaders to Lisbon’s MEO Arena, located just steps away from the main event venue, Feira Internacional de Lisboa, on Wednesday, 17 September. The evening will celebrate the standout companies shortlisted across 22 fiercely contested categories, and ultimately, honour the winners.
While the shortlist was selected by an independent panel of experts, the final decision lies with the public, who can now cast their vote online for the company they believe deserves the spotlight.
Speaking on the launch of the awards, Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, said: “Last year’s launch of the Affiliate Leaders Summit was a huge step forward for us, but this year we wanted to go even further and recognise the vital role that affiliates, operator programmes, and the suppliers that power them play in the industry’s growth by giving them their very own ceremony.
“By putting the final decision in the public’s hands, we’re able to honour the companies that truly resonate with the community and celebrate the ones people genuinely believe in.”
Leading the way for nominations at the Affiliate Leaders Awards are BetAffiliation and Hub Affiliations, who boast seven nominations each across both company-wide and individual categories. Boomerang Partners follow closely with six, while Game Lounge and Gentoo Media have each earned five, reflecting their strong performance and visibility across the affiliate industry.
Both BetAffiliation and Hub Affiliations will go head-to-head for Best Affiliate Network as well as Affiliate Campaign of the Year, but face stiff competition from the likes of KR3W and Gentoo Media.
Meanwhile, the hotly contested Sports Affiliate of the Year category features some of the industry’s most recognised names, including Better Collective, Catena Media, Oddschecker, and Flashscore Network.
The shortlist for Affiliate Traffic Source of the Year sees BetAffiliation pick up another nod, alongside the likes of Clever Advertising and Oddschecker.
Workplace culture takes centre stage in Affiliate Employer of the Year, with BetAffiliation, Hub Affiliations, Clever Advertising, and Game Lounge recognised for their efforts in building positive team environments.
On the casino front, Catena Media, Game Lounge Ltd, Casino Guru, and Betting Hero are all in contention for Casino Affiliate of the Year.
In the operator categories, bet365 Partners is aiming for a third consecutive win in Best Affiliate Programme (Operator), having previously claimed the title at the SBC Awards. This year, they face competition from Betsson Group Affiliates, Boomerang Partners, and Kaizen Gaming. The Affiliate Programme of the Year – Large category will also feature major operators, with 1w, BetMGM, Betsson Group Affiliates, and PIN-UP Partners all in contention for the gong.
The awards also spotlight the tech providers underpinning affiliate growth. Aff.Tech, ReferOn, and other leading platforms have secured nominations in both Affiliate Management Platform of the Year and Affiliate Technology of the Year.
Other categories on the night include Casino Title of the Year and Marketing Agency of the Year, rounding out a comprehensive celebration of affiliate marketing excellence.
Individual leadership in the industry will also be recognised, with awards for Affiliate Leader of the Year, Affiliate Content Manager of the Year, and Affiliate Account/Community Manager of the Year, underscoring the critical role individuals play in elevating brand performance.
The post Meet the First-Ever Affiliate Leaders Awards 2025 Shortlist and Cast Your Vote! appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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