TECHNOLOGY
11 MINS
Tech is changing the way our cities look
Hamsika Iyer, Product Designer at Canvs, has developed a unique lens for observing urban spaces. In this piece, she shares her insights on how technology, from IoT to social media, is reshaping the way cities look and operate.
It's 2016, and you hear about an exciting new game called Pokémon GO, where you can catch Pokémon scattered around your neighbourhood. All you need to do is step outside and use your phone's camera to find these hidden creatures. What starts as a fun and intriguing game quickly evolves into a nationwide craze. Suddenly, people everywhere are exploring streets, parks, and local spots they’ve never noticed before, reviving forgotten public parks, as they flock to parks and gardens.
The Pokémon GO craze was just the beginning. Digital apps aren’t just changing how people interact with their surroundings—they’re reshaping the way cities are planned. As people increasingly rely on these services, cities are trying to keep up, making urban spaces more flexible and tech-friendly.
It's 2016, and you hear about an exciting new game called Pokémon GO, where you can catch Pokémon scattered around your neighbourhood. All you need to do is step outside and use your phone's camera to find these hidden creatures. What starts as a fun and intriguing game quickly evolves into a nationwide craze. Suddenly, people everywhere are exploring streets, parks, and local spots they’ve never noticed before, reviving forgotten public parks, as they flock to parks and gardens.
The Pokémon GO craze was just the beginning. Digital apps aren’t just changing how people interact with their surroundings—they’re reshaping the way cities are planned. As people increasingly rely on these services, cities are trying to keep up, making urban spaces more flexible and tech-friendly.
How cities are adapting to constant connectivity
How cities are adapting to constant connectivity
With people constantly focused on their phones, awareness of their surroundings has often taken a backseat. It’s now common to see accidents caused by individuals distracted by texting or scrolling—even to the point of walking into traffic.
In 2019, South Korea started a trial project with traffic lights embedded in the ground to help “phone-obsessed zombies” (their term) cross the road safely while glued to their screens.
With people constantly focused on their phones, awareness of their surroundings has often taken a backseat. It’s now common to see accidents caused by individuals distracted by texting or scrolling—even to the point of walking into traffic.
In 2019, South Korea started a trial project with traffic lights embedded in the ground to help “phone-obsessed zombies” (their term) cross the road safely while glued to their screens.
In China, the city of Chongqing introduced a 30m (100ft) cellphone lane specifically for pedestrians who are texting.
In China, the city of Chongqing introduced a 30m (100ft) cellphone lane specifically for pedestrians who are texting.
These real-life instances show that cities have started to adapt to the challenges that come with people being glued to their phones. As our dependence on digital tools grows, it’s clear that traditional urban spaces can’t keep up with how we now live, move, and interact.
This shift is just one part of a larger transformation that’s taking place as it’s no longer just about roads, parks, or transport systems functioning in isolation—technology is beginning to connect everything.
These real-life instances show that cities have started to adapt to the challenges that come with people being glued to their phones. As our dependence on digital tools grows, it’s clear that traditional urban spaces can’t keep up with how we now live, move, and interact.
This shift is just one part of a larger transformation that’s taking place as it’s no longer just about roads, parks, or transport systems functioning in isolation—technology is beginning to connect everything.
Smart cities are blending tech with urban life
Smart cities are blending tech with urban life
Metropolises are embracing this transformation through “smart city” initiatives. The idea behind them is simple: use technology and data to improve day-to-day operations. These changes may seem small on the surface, but together, they help cities keep pace with modern life while planning ahead for the future.
Metropolises are embracing this transformation through “smart city” initiatives. The idea behind them is simple: use technology and data to improve day-to-day operations. These changes may seem small on the surface, but together, they help cities keep pace with modern life while planning ahead for the future.
"It’s not just about high-tech gadgets—it’s about making public transport more efficient, managing traffic better, and providing essential services right at your fingertips."
"It’s not just about high-tech gadgets—it’s about making public transport more efficient, managing traffic better, and providing essential services right at your fingertips."
India’s Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, aims to develop 100 cities across the country by using technology to enhance infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life. What makes these smart cities particularly interesting is the integration of modern tech with community spaces.
In Ahmedabad, the Sabarmati Riverfront project creates a sustainable, accessible public space along the river, using smart environmental planning that takes into account local heritage while reimagining the area for modern use. Meanwhile, Pune has taken another approach and focused on tech-driven solutions for daily life, introducing smart street lighting, public bike-sharing, and city-wide Wi-Fi—all initiatives that support modern lifestyles and connect residents more seamlessly with the city.
India’s Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, aims to develop 100 cities across the country by using technology to enhance infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life. What makes these smart cities particularly interesting is the integration of modern tech with community spaces.
In Ahmedabad, the Sabarmati Riverfront project creates a sustainable, accessible public space along the river, using smart environmental planning that takes into account local heritage while reimagining the area for modern use. Meanwhile, Pune has taken another approach and focused on tech-driven solutions for daily life, introducing smart street lighting, public bike-sharing, and city-wide Wi-Fi—all initiatives that support modern lifestyles and connect residents more seamlessly with the city.
How social media is impacting the urban aesthetic
How social media is impacting the urban aesthetic
Look around, and you’ll see “I Love (City Name)” installations popping up everywhere. These selfie-friendly landmarks are designed to attract visitors and enhance city appeal. For example, the “I Love Mumbai” sign at Marine Drive and “I Love Delhi” in Connaught Place have become popular spots for locals and tourists alike.
With the rise of photo-sharing and “photo dumps,” city planners have started to design public spaces in ways that are both functional and visually appealing. By collaborating with local artists, they’re transforming urban areas with murals, sculptures, and interactive installations that add cultural flair and beauty, all the while being social-media friendly.
Look around, and you’ll see “I Love (City Name)” installations popping up everywhere. These selfie-friendly landmarks are designed to attract visitors and enhance city appeal. For example, the “I Love Mumbai” sign at Marine Drive and “I Love Delhi” in Connaught Place have become popular spots for locals and tourists alike.
With the rise of photo-sharing and “photo dumps,” city planners have started to design public spaces in ways that are both functional and visually appealing. By collaborating with local artists, they’re transforming urban areas with murals, sculptures, and interactive installations that add cultural flair and beauty, all the while being social-media friendly.
Reviving overlooked spaces
Reviving overlooked spaces
Overlooked spaces or underutilized areas within cities, ranging from vacant lots to neighborhoods that usually do not receive much attention or investment, are also seeing creative intervention.
In places like Dharavi, one of Asia's largest and most resilient communities, spaces are being reimagined through community art projects. Organizations like Street Art India and Dharavi Art Room are collaborating with local artists to transform plain walls into vibrant murals. These colorful artworks have turned the area into a much-favored backdrop for Instagrammers and influencers, bringing fresh attention and a sense of pride to the community.
This renewed interest has changed how people view the area and also opened up new opportunities for local businesses and artists.
Overlooked spaces or underutilized areas within cities, ranging from vacant lots to neighborhoods that usually do not receive much attention or investment, are also seeing creative intervention.
In places like Dharavi, one of Asia's largest and most resilient communities, spaces are being reimagined through community art projects. Organizations like Street Art India and Dharavi Art Room are collaborating with local artists to transform plain walls into vibrant murals. These colorful artworks have turned the area into a much-favored backdrop for Instagrammers and influencers, bringing fresh attention and a sense of pride to the community.
This renewed interest has changed how people view the area and also opened up new opportunities for local businesses and artists.
A shift in social connections
A shift in social connections
As digital apps like Instagram, Zomato, and Airbnb Experiences shape how we socialize, there’s also a rising demand for unique spots—places worth capturing, sharing, or reviewing. In response, themed cafes, rooftop lounges, interactive museums, and public art installations are popping up everywhere to meet this craving.
Interestingly, fatigue from constant screen-time is making people seek tech-free experiences, encouraging them to gather outdoors to connect face-to-face.
As digital apps like Instagram, Zomato, and Airbnb Experiences shape how we socialize, there’s also a rising demand for unique spots—places worth capturing, sharing, or reviewing. In response, themed cafes, rooftop lounges, interactive museums, and public art installations are popping up everywhere to meet this craving.
Interestingly, fatigue from constant screen-time is making people seek tech-free experiences, encouraging them to gather outdoors to connect face-to-face.
"As a result, public spaces are being reimagined as social hubs where people can relax, mingle, and make memories together."
"As a result, public spaces are being reimagined as social hubs where people can relax, mingle, and make memories together."
Parks, promenades, and open-air plazas are evolving beyond functional areas into buzzing spots for community connection.
Parks, promenades, and open-air plazas are evolving beyond functional areas into buzzing spots for community connection.
The inevitable gentrification and community impact
The inevitable gentrification and community impact
While it’s exciting to see this wave of revitalization, there’s also a downside—gentrification. As neighbourhoods gain popularity and attract more visitors, property values often start to rise, pushing out long-time residents who can’t afford the increasing rents.
The Alfama district in Lisbon, Portugal is a striking example. Known for its narrow streets, Fado music, and beautiful tiles, Alfama has become a social media hotspot, drawing tourists eager for its picturesque views. While this attention brings energy, it’s also raising rents and replacing family-run shops with trendy boutiques and hipster cafes that cater to the Insta tourist, making it harder for locals to stay. Alfama’s story raises a question familiar to many cities: how long can a neighborhood’s authentic spirit survive amid new-found popularity brought on by the grammable aesthetic?
While it’s exciting to see this wave of revitalization, there’s also a downside—gentrification. As neighbourhoods gain popularity and attract more visitors, property values often start to rise, pushing out long-time residents who can’t afford the increasing rents.
The Alfama district in Lisbon, Portugal is a striking example. Known for its narrow streets, Fado music, and beautiful tiles, Alfama has become a social media hotspot, drawing tourists eager for its picturesque views. While this attention brings energy, it’s also raising rents and replacing family-run shops with trendy boutiques and hipster cafes that cater to the Insta tourist, making it harder for locals to stay. Alfama’s story raises a question familiar to many cities: how long can a neighborhood’s authentic spirit survive amid new-found popularity brought on by the grammable aesthetic?
How cities are being redefined by popular apps
How cities are being redefined by popular apps
Beyond tourism, popular apps are also changing how cities approach essential services, pushing urban design to evolve in response.
Beyond tourism, popular apps are also changing how cities approach essential services, pushing urban design to evolve in response.
Public transport
Public transport
City planners are putting a lot of effort into making public transport more appealing, as it reduces traffic and environmental impact. But in a densely populated country like India, building a seamless transit network is a complex challenge, and convincing people to swap their personal vehicles for public transport adds another layer of complexity.
Improving public transport is essential, and digital tools are making it a lot more appealing. Take Mumbai’s local trains, for example—they’re often overcrowded and confusing, even for the savviest commuter, with multiple lines to navigate. But apps like m-Indicator and Yatri are game-changers, offering live tracking, schedules, and delay updates that help commuters manage their journeys. Many who once avoided the local train system due to its complexity, now use it regularly.
City planners are putting a lot of effort into making public transport more appealing, as it reduces traffic and environmental impact. But in a densely populated country like India, building a seamless transit network is a complex challenge, and convincing people to swap their personal vehicles for public transport adds another layer of complexity.
Improving public transport is essential, and digital tools are making it a lot more appealing. Take Mumbai’s local trains, for example—they’re often overcrowded and confusing, even for the savviest commuter, with multiple lines to navigate. But apps like m-Indicator and Yatri are game-changers, offering live tracking, schedules, and delay updates that help commuters manage their journeys. Many who once avoided the local train system due to its complexity, now use it regularly.
On the bus side, apps like CityFlo let people reserve seats on clean, air-conditioned buses, offering a reliable alternative to buses and even private cars. And it’s not just private players stepping up—government initiatives like Delhi’s One Card, which helps navigate both metro and bus services with one single card, and Mumbai’s BEST Chalo app, which helps track buses in real-time, make commuting by metro and bus more seamless. In Kerala, the Kochi Water Metro project helps streamline bookings for transport through waterways across the city.
Meanwhile, Indian Railways’ UTS app allows people to skip long queues and rush-hour lines by letting people book tickets straight from their phones. With features like easy monthly pass renewals and access to train schedules, the app makes commuting a bit more manageable for everyone.
Thanks to all of these apps, taking the train or bus doesn’t feel like a hassle anymore. Commuters have a lot more confidence in the system instead of dreading the thought of it. People are now more willing to use public transport, knowing they can plan their journeys with ease. This has made public transport feel more accessible and, surprisingly, a bit more inviting!
On the bus side, apps like CityFlo let people reserve seats on clean, air-conditioned buses, offering a reliable alternative to buses and even private cars. And it’s not just private players stepping up—government initiatives like Delhi’s One Card, which helps navigate both metro and bus services with one single card, and Mumbai’s BEST Chalo app, which helps track buses in real-time, make commuting by metro and bus more seamless. In Kerala, the Kochi Water Metro project helps streamline bookings for transport through waterways across the city.
Meanwhile, Indian Railways’ UTS app allows people to skip long queues and rush-hour lines by letting people book tickets straight from their phones. With features like easy monthly pass renewals and access to train schedules, the app makes commuting a bit more manageable for everyone.
Thanks to all of these apps, taking the train or bus doesn’t feel like a hassle anymore. Commuters have a lot more confidence in the system instead of dreading the thought of it. People are now more willing to use public transport, knowing they can plan their journeys with ease. This has made public transport feel more accessible and, surprisingly, a bit more inviting!
Private transport
In areas where public transport doesn’t reach, private transport steps in. With parking in cities becoming scarce, many people are opting out of owning cars, turning instead to ride-hailing apps like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. Since these cabs are constantly moving to pick up and drop off passengers, the need for long-term parking is minimized.
In India, apps like Ola and Uber have become integral to urban transport systems. For example, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has dedicated pickup zones for these services, making it easy for travelers to connect with cabs. In Bengaluru, Ola even integrates with Namma Metro to provide first and last-mile connectivity.
In areas where public transport doesn’t reach, private transport steps in. With parking in cities becoming scarce, many people are opting out of owning cars, turning instead to ride-hailing apps like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. Since these cabs are constantly moving to pick up and drop off passengers, the need for long-term parking is minimized.
In India, apps like Ola and Uber have become integral to urban transport systems. For example, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has dedicated pickup zones for these services, making it easy for travelers to connect with cabs. In Bengaluru, Ola even integrates with Namma Metro to provide first and last-mile connectivity.
This shift is changing how parking lots are designed. Instead of traditional lots, we’re seeing dedicated zones for quick pickups and drop-offs. Airports, malls, and even corporate offices are reworking their spaces to accommodate ride-share lanes and carpooling spots.
Looking to the future, it seems like roads and parking areas might prioritize these quick-access zones over traditional parking. We could see dedicated lanes for ride-shares around busy areas, making drop-offs smoother. And with smart technology, real-time updates could help manage these zones in a better way, keeping traffic moving and areas accessible.
This shift is changing how parking lots are designed. Instead of traditional lots, we’re seeing dedicated zones for quick pickups and drop-offs. Airports, malls, and even corporate offices are reworking their spaces to accommodate ride-share lanes and carpooling spots.
Looking to the future, it seems like roads and parking areas might prioritize these quick-access zones over traditional parking. We could see dedicated lanes for ride-shares around busy areas, making drop-offs smoother. And with smart technology, real-time updates could help manage these zones in a better way, keeping traffic moving and areas accessible.
Bikes and e-scooters
In India, two-wheelers have always been popular—they’re affordable, easy to maneuver in our narrow lanes, and now, with apps like Yulu, even more accessible. With just a few taps, people can grab a bike or e-scooter for a quick trip, making it easier to handle that last leg of the commute between the train station and home.
As more people turn to these app-based rides, cities are starting to make space for them. Bengaluru and Pune are already adding dedicated bike lanes to keep two-wheeler traffic safe and smooth. Bengaluru’s Cycle Track initiative is part of a bigger push to make biking and scootering easier for everyone.
In India, two-wheelers have always been popular—they’re affordable, easy to maneuver in our narrow lanes, and now, with apps like Yulu, even more accessible. With just a few taps, people can grab a bike or e-scooter for a quick trip, making it easier to handle that last leg of the commute between the train station and home.
As more people turn to these app-based rides, cities are starting to make space for them. Bengaluru and Pune are already adding dedicated bike lanes to keep two-wheeler traffic safe and smooth. Bengaluru’s Cycle Track initiative is part of a bigger push to make biking and scootering easier for everyone.
Plus, with so many people opting for these rides, there’s a real need for parking and charging spots around town. Cities are setting up dedicated spaces for bikes and e-scooters so that riders can park and charge up when they need to. Even delivery services are getting in on the action—Zomato is teaming up with Zypp Electric to add 100,000 e-scooters by 2024. This means quieter streets, cleaner air, and faster deliveries.
So, as apps make it easier to rent a bike or scooter whenever you need one, cities are evolving right along with them. There is a definite shift toward greener, more flexible urban transport, with infrastructure that keeps up with these modes of transport.
Plus, with so many people opting for these rides, there’s a real need for parking and charging spots around town. Cities are setting up dedicated spaces for bikes and e-scooters so that riders can park and charge up when they need to. Even delivery services are getting in on the action—Zomato is teaming up with Zypp Electric to add 100,000 e-scooters by 2024. This means quieter streets, cleaner air, and faster deliveries.
So, as apps make it easier to rent a bike or scooter whenever you need one, cities are evolving right along with them. There is a definite shift toward greener, more flexible urban transport, with infrastructure that keeps up with these modes of transport.
E-commerce, quick commerce and dark stores
The rise of e-commerce and quick commerce is also influencing how city planners think about zoning. Traditionally, warehouses are located in industrial zones, far from residential areas, to keep heavy traffic, noise, and pollution away from living spaces. But with the growing need for dark stores—mini-warehouses that serve as fulfillment centers for online orders—there’s now a push to locate these facilities closer to where people live.
In Mumbai, for instance, companies like Dunzo have set up dark stores in residential neighborhoods to speed up deliveries. As doorstep delivery becomes the norm, some residents are prioritizing quick access to these services over having traditional shops nearby, which could lead to housing choices further from commercial hubs at a lower cost.
The rise of e-commerce and quick commerce is also influencing how city planners think about zoning. Traditionally, warehouses are located in industrial zones, far from residential areas, to keep heavy traffic, noise, and pollution away from living spaces. But with the growing need for dark stores—mini-warehouses that serve as fulfillment centers for online orders—there’s now a push to locate these facilities closer to where people live.
In Mumbai, for instance, companies like Dunzo have set up dark stores in residential neighborhoods to speed up deliveries. As doorstep delivery becomes the norm, some residents are prioritizing quick access to these services over having traditional shops nearby, which could lead to housing choices further from commercial hubs at a lower cost.
This trend fits into the idea of “15-minute cities” where daily needs—groceries, healthcare, and schools—are accessible within a short walk or bike ride. Paris is leading the way in promoting this model, creating self-sufficient neighborhoods with essentials close by. As dark stores increase, they can enhance this model by making products even more accessible for residents.
However, this new model isn’t without its challenges. While it surely makes things convenient, the increase in delivery bikes and riders can lead to congestion in residential areas.
For instance, neighbourhoods in many cities are now reporting increased traffic from delivery personnel, causing frustration among local residents. There are also concerns about the impact on traditional commerce, as local shops may struggle to compete with the convenience of online delivery. Additionally, communities are raising alarms about how these dark stores might alter the character of their neighbourhoods.
In Europe, many residents have pushed back against the establishment of dark stores due to worries about noise and traffic. Balancing modern conveniences with the needs and desires of local residents will be crucial as urban landscapes evolve.
This trend fits into the idea of “15-minute cities” where daily needs—groceries, healthcare, and schools—are accessible within a short walk or bike ride. Paris is leading the way in promoting this model, creating self-sufficient neighborhoods with essentials close by. As dark stores increase, they can enhance this model by making products even more accessible for residents.
However, this new model isn’t without its challenges. While it surely makes things convenient, the increase in delivery bikes and riders can lead to congestion in residential areas.
For instance, neighbourhoods in many cities are now reporting increased traffic from delivery personnel, causing frustration among local residents. There are also concerns about the impact on traditional commerce, as local shops may struggle to compete with the convenience of online delivery. Additionally, communities are raising alarms about how these dark stores might alter the character of their neighbourhoods.
In Europe, many residents have pushed back against the establishment of dark stores due to worries about noise and traffic. Balancing modern conveniences with the needs and desires of local residents will be crucial as urban landscapes evolve.
Keeping our cities smart, livable, and full of life
As our cities grow into tech-driven ecosystems, we’re seeing a real shift in how we live and move. Digital apps have become part of our everyday routines, making everything from getting around to staying connected easier and more convenient. But as exciting as these changes are, it’s important that our cities keep their unique character and stay focused on people, not just technology.
This means creating spaces that invite us to connect with each other, setting aside green areas where we can relax, and making sure everyone can access and enjoy these new benefits. The goal is simple yet powerful: to build cities that meet our needs while keeping that sense of community alive—a future where technology and people work together to make urban life not just efficient, but meaningful and livable.
As our cities grow into tech-driven ecosystems, we’re seeing a real shift in how we live and move. Digital apps have become part of our everyday routines, making everything from getting around to staying connected easier and more convenient. But as exciting as these changes are, it’s important that our cities keep their unique character and stay focused on people, not just technology.
This means creating spaces that invite us to connect with each other, setting aside green areas where we can relax, and making sure everyone can access and enjoy these new benefits. The goal is simple yet powerful: to build cities that meet our needs while keeping that sense of community alive—a future where technology and people work together to make urban life not just efficient, but meaningful and livable.
Canvs is an interface design and engineering studio based in Mumbai, India. We are group design partners to some of India’s market leaders in Banking and Finance and have been around since 2016.