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Tech-Op-ed September 2025 SOUNDING OFF
By Michael Skinner Editor
Web 3.0 T
he internet has undergone dramatic transformations since its inception, moving from static pages to interactive platforms and now toward a decentralized, user-centric vision. Known as Web
3.0, this next phase of the internet represents a significant shift in how people interact online, how data is stored, and how digital value is exchanged. While Web 1.0 was primarily a “read-only” web and Web 2.0 introduced the “read-write” social and interactive internet, Web 3.0 seeks to build a “read-write-own” ecosystem. At the heart of Web 3.0 lies decentralization. Unlike today’s web,
where a handful of corporations such as Google, Meta, and Amazon dominate user data and online platforms, Web 3.0 envisions a system where users control their identities, information, and digital assets. This shift is made possible by blockchain technology, which allows for transparent, secure, and tamper-proof record-keeping without cen- tralized oversight. Several technologies form the foundation of Web 3.0. Blockchain
serves as the backbone, ensuring data cannot be altered without con- sensus. Cryptocurrencies and tokens provide a means of transferring value directly between users, enabling digital ownership of every- thing from currency to virtual goods. Smart contracts — self-execut- ing programs stored on a blockchain — remove the need for interme- diaries by enforcing agreements automatically. Beyond finance, decentralized applications (dApps) allow servic-
es to operate without a central authority, running instead on distrib- uted networks. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) push governance further by enabling communities to collectively manage resources and decision-making without traditional leader- ship structures. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and the semantic web promise smarter online interactions, as ma- chines become better at understanding and processing data. Several characteristics distinguish Web 3.0 from its predeces-
sors. The decentralized architecture ensures no single entity controls the network. Users gain true ownership of their online presence through digital wallets, which store everything from identity creden- tials to NFTs (non-fungible tokens). The environment is both trust- less and permissionless, meaning participants do not need approval from gatekeepers to engage in transactions or access services. Inter- operability is another key feature, allowing digital assets and servic- es to function seamlessly across different platforms. Tokenization plays a central role as well, enabling new economic models in which users can directly earn, spend, and trade digital value. Web 3.0 is already visible in emerging platforms and services.
Bitcoin and Ethereum demonstrate decentralized finance at scale, while NFT marketplaces such as OpenSea showcase digital owner- ship of art, media, and collectibles. Protocols like Uniswap and Aave illustrate how decentralized finance (DeFi) can replace traditional banking services, while networks such as IPFS and Filecoin intro- duce decentralized storage solutions. These examples highlight how Web 3.0 is expanding beyond theory and becoming a practical foun- dation for new industries. Web 3.0 is more than just a technological evolution; it represents
a philosophical shift toward democratizing the internet. By placing ownership and control in the hands of users, it has the potential to re- shape digital life in profound ways. Although still in its early stages, Web 3.0 marks the beginning of a new era in which the internet be- comes not just a place to share and interact, but a decentralized, in- telligent ecosystem where users truly own their digital world. r
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
By Jacob Fattal Publisher
Forward into Fall N
ow that we are past the hot summer days, we are looking for- ward to a packed fall season of trade shows and exhibitions. This issue covers several major shows, including SMTA
Guadalajara, The Battery Show, SEMICON West, and IMAPS. Com- ing up we have two more major events to highlight: SMTA Interna- tional in Rosemont, Illinois, and productronica, in Munich, Germany. SMTA International has been a staple of the SMT trade show
circuit for years, and this year should be no exception. SMTA Inter- national is the flagship event organized by the Surface Mount Tech- nology Association (SMTA), a global network dedicated to skill-build- ing, sharing practical experience, and advancing solutions across electronics manufacturing (EM). Originally focused on surface mount technology, SMTA now embraces all facets of modern electronics pro- duction. This event brings together professionals, researchers, engi- neers, and industry leaders worldwide to exchange the latest tech- nologies, research, and practical insights. productronica, however, is a sprawling four-day affair organized
in November. productronica is one of the world’s leading trade fairs for electronics development and production. It takes place every two years in Munich, Germany, and serves as a global meeting point for professionals across the electronics manufacturing industry. The show covers the entire value chain of electronics production — from semiconductor manufacturing and printed circuit board (PCB) as- sembly to testing, quality assurance, and advanced packaging. productronica is considered one of the most comprehensive
events for electronics production technology. It helps companies stay competitive by providing direct exposure to innovations, new process- es, and suppliers. For professionals, it offers a chance to gain knowl- edge, discover solutions to manufacturing challenges, and exchange ideas with peers globally. If you want to see the biggest equipment and technology demos,
productronica is unmatched. If you want to learn and network with technical experts in assembly and packaging, SMTA International is the place to be. Looking forward to seeing you there! r
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