Final answer:
According to Thomas Friedman, the third era of globalization is characterized by the advent of the a. internet and digital communication, which have greatly influenced global interconnectivity and economic integration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technology that brought about the third era of globalization, according to Thomas Friedman in The World Is Flat, is internet and digital communication. Friedman argues that while there have been several eras of globalization driven by different forces, the most recent period is fueled by advancements in technology, especially the proliferation of the internet and digital communication tools. This has significantly impacted global culture and the way information flows across national borders, helping to connect the world and flatten economic disparities.