From Sci-Fi to Reality: How Films Inspired the Tech Around Us

21 August 2025

Paul Francis

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A Nostalgic Glimpse of the Future

There was a certain magic in sitting down to watch a sci-fi film as a child, eyes wide, heart racing, as heroes tapped sleek screens, spoke into tiny devices, or zoomed around in cars that seemed to fly. The future felt just a reel away, and we often marveled at gadgets that seemed impossible. Yet over the decades, many of these fantastical inventions have crept off the screen and into our pockets, homes, and daily lives.

Foldable smartphone with a purple cover, standing open on a marble surface. The screen displays the time 17:51 and a colorful graphic.

Star Trek and the Rise of Mobile Phones

One of the most obvious examples is the mobile phone. Fans of Star Trek will remember the original series’ communicators, small flip devices that allowed instant contact across distances. These were a clear inspiration for the flip phones that became ubiquitous in the 1990s and early 2000s. Even today, the sleek, touch-screen smartphones we carry owe a nod to that early vision of portable, personal communication.

Beyond Phones: Sci-Fi as a Blueprint for Innovation

Films like Back to the Future Part II imagined hoverboards, self-lacing shoes, and video calling long before they became tangible possibilities. Science fiction has often served as a blueprint, a source of collective imagination that engineers and designers try to replicate. Robotic assistants, smart home devices, and augmented reality technologies can all trace at least part of their conceptual lineage back to the silver screen.

Medical Technology Inspired by Fiction

Medical technology has also benefited from the visionary ideas of science fiction. The Star Trek medical tricorder, capable of diagnosing ailments instantly, inspired real-world attempts at portable diagnostic tools. Companies and researchers have been working on handheld devices capable of scanning vitals and detecting illnesses quickly, a technology that could revolutionise healthcare access in remote areas.

Challenges of Turning Fiction Into Reality

Yet translating fiction into reality is rarely straightforward. Many innovations seen in films face practical, economic, and ethical challenges. The self-driving cars imagined in Total Recall and Minority Report are now being tested in real cities, but safety, regulation, and infrastructure remain hurdles. Similarly, while gesture-controlled interfaces and holographic displays dazzle audiences in cinemas, creating responsive, reliable, and affordable versions for daily use is far from simple.

Close-up of a person wearing glowing, futuristic HUD glasses with digital patterns. Eye-focused, hi-tech ambiance against a dark backdrop.

Nostalgia Keeps the Dream Alive

Nostalgia, however, keeps the dream alive. Older audiences smile at seeing Star Trek communicators reflected in their pocket devices, while younger viewers are inspired by the visions they see on screen today. Science fiction acts as both motivator and mirror, reflecting our hopes for the future and nudging technologists to turn imagination into reality.

Looking Forward: The Fantastical Becoming Mundane

So, while we may not be zooming around on hoverboards or casually teleporting from place to place just yet, the gadgets we carry and the technologies we rely on are increasingly influenced by what once seemed impossible. Perhaps one day, the fantastical devices of today’s films will be the mundane tools of tomorrow, and future generations will look back with the same nostalgic wonder we do now. Until then, keep an eye on the screen—it may just be the blueprint for the next revolution in technology.

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Unlocking the Perfect Gift: Last-Minute Christmas Ideas for Your Teenage Girl

Ellie Waiton
Dec 13, 2023
2 min read

Young girl opening presents on Christmas Day — Generated with Leonardo AI

As a teenage girl myself, I can break down what your daughter will want to be gifted on Christmas day…

Stocking -

Get her a candle! Women tend to love candles as they are relaxing. Consider scents like vanilla, lavender, or festive holiday aromas. Anything perfume and makeup is perfect… get her an eyeshadow palette or some lip balms. I can confirm that every teenage girl loves a bit of skincare too - so grab her a face wash, cleansing wipes, spot patches, or a serum. She’ll love pampering herself!

Presents -

Young lady Playing Video Games over Christmas — Generated with Leonardo AI

Does she like games?

Grab her a game. If she loves a classic board game - get her one!! Who doesn't love them? Opt for timeless classics like Monopoly or Scrabble. Does she like video games? Maybe even a game that 2 people can play at once (or more) - a multiplayer game that you can enjoy together.

Does she like movies and TV shows?

Get her some merchandise! Or a meet and greet ticket to meet the actors… Find merchandise from her favourite show or movie, like a blanket, a mug, or a poster for her room. If possible, look for local events or virtual opportunities for a meet and greet with actors.

Is she artsy?

Get her some art supplies! Consider a sketchbook, a set of pencils, or even a tablet for digital art if it's within your budget. Add in some vibrant paints or markers to spark her creativity.

Does she like reading?

Get her some books! Maybe even look at the ones she has already read and buy her the sequels. Check out the latest releases in genres she enjoys or explore book series that align with her interests.

Does she like keeping up to date with fashion trends?

Have a look on Pinterest for the latest fashion trends!

Does she like making things?

Buy her some craft DIY sets - DIY sets never get old! Look for DIY kits like jewellery-making sets, knitting kits, or even candle-making kits.

She likes music? A specific artist?

Get her some tickets to shows! Check for upcoming concerts or events featuring her favourite artist. Consider getting tickets for both of you to enjoy the experience together.

Young lady walking down the street with New Headphones — Generated with Leonardo AI

She likes technology?

If you can afford it… get her the device she wants. Whether it's the latest smartphone, tablet, or a pair of wireless earbuds, technology gifts are sure to make her Christmas special.

Get her some funny gifts too! Inside jokes, etc. Consider a custom-made funny T-shirt, a mug, or a desk accessory that brings a smile to her face.

Remember, the most important thing is to tailor the gift to her unique personality and interests.