Web 4.0: Search beyond semantics –By Aditya Abeysinghe

The Web has changed everything in humans since its initial availability as a content sharing method. From static websites to machine friendly websites that are used currently, the Web has provided a revolution of the use of online services. A more user to machine linked version of the Web which will further enhance Web use is emerging called the Web 4.0.

Web 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0

Web 1.0 was the first web that was used by internet users. In this version, the content shared was only viewable to users and users could not edit or add content. Content in this Web were modifiable only by website admins and few users had interest in viewing content. This web was used mainly by businesses that chose to display their content to public as a low-cost content displaying method.

Web 2.0 was the second web that was used and it enabled users to interact with the Web. It enabled users to add or edit content and interact with online communities using forums, blogs, and other content shareable methods. Most social media and content sharing websites were opened to users during this Web. This Web also helped use of smart devices such as smartphones with the Internet and use of remote data storage for users. As use of the Web increased new methods for interacting between users also were used.

Web 3.0 is the Web that is currently used mostly by websites. It is called the “Semantic Web” as this Web makes the web readable by machines. Websites that were used during Web 1.0 or 2.0 were based on HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) and other methods for website design which was not machine friendly. Recently, most Web 2.0 websites have updated their content to be more search engine readable using semantic-based design. Semantic model which uses various methods to convert content in websites to content which can be read by bots was added in Web 3.0.

Web 4.0

With Web 3.0, the boundary between machines and humans exists since there is no interaction between machines and humans other than obtaining an output for a requested service. Web 4.0 will reduce this limit between humans and machines and will make the current Web a “symbiotic” Web. This Web will use AI (Artificial Intelligence), Self-learning methods, IoT (Internet of Things) and other methods and techniques to provide new methods of using the Web.

What changes will Web 4.0 make?

Web 4.0 will change many businesses using new methods of reaching their customers. Virtual and augmented methods of businesses are not new. However, most of these methods require software and hardware to obtain a service. Web 4.0 will integrate these virtual services to the Web and enable customers to link with a seller using the Web. Businesses could also use virtual methods to reduce the costs of maintaining stores while ensuring a better bond with clients.

Another change that will be made to the Web is the use of voice assistants with web-based services. Voice assistants are commonly used by smartphones and tablets to encourage better use of the Internet or offline methods to look for content requested. Recently, desktop assistants have been integrated with PC (Personal Computer) OS (Operating System) to enable similar use of search. However, use of assistants directly within the web will be available with Web 4.0.

Web 4.0 will also change how people use online businesses to obtain services. For example, buying products using handheld devices and notifying sellers to deliver items when food or other products in a house are empty could be possible with the new Web using “bots” which can link with sellers and customers. Also, with bots being used within businesses, sellers could easily forecast sales, reduce wastages and efficiently manage supply of products to customers.

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