Evolving Landscape of Digital Technology Adoption: Theoretical Shifts & Future Trajectories

Abstract

The swift development of information technologies has revolutionized industries, governance systems, and human conduct to the point where current theoretical underpinnings of technology adoption must be re-examined. This paper critically analyzes the evolving paradigms of digital technology adoption by analyzing major theoretical frameworks—such as the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and Diffusion of Innovations Theory—while establishing their shortcomings in explaining modern-day digital phenomena such as AI integration, blockchain, IoT, and metaverse ecosystems. From a comparative perspective, the research points out how new technologies negate historical presumptions of user uptake, organizational preparedness, and ICT literacy. In addition, it suggests a conceptual framework for future research that encompasses dynamic user environments, socio-cultural aspects, and environmentally friendly innovation practices. The paper helps to further refine the scholarly work by providing new evidence on how the digital adoption environment is changing and presents actionable recommendations for policymakers, technologists, and research scholars working in the digital transformation age.