MIT Technology Review has released the top 10 breakthrough technologies in 2017 with the potential to shake up various aspects of people's lives including the economy, politics, medicine and culture.

Some technologies are available now and are having a powerful impact. Some will be available in the next few years and their potential influence cannot be ignored. Let's take a look at the top 10 breakthrough technologies in 2017.

The founder and executive chairman of Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba Group, Jack Ma, delivers a speech during the official opening of the CeBIT technology fair in Hanover, central Germany, on March 15, 2015. [Photo/VCG]

Pay with your face

China has taken a leading role in face-detection technology that can authorize payments, provide access to facilities, and track down criminals in China.

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