As 2024 comes to a close, it’s hard not to reflect on a year that has been both groundbreaking and bewildering in the realms of science, medicine, and particularly technology. The advancements made this year pushed us further into the future, marked notably by the extraordinary strides in artificial intelligence, enhanced smart tech, and the burgeoning field of quantum computing. Yet, alongside these achievements, we saw just as many unusual phenomena—cryptocurrencies fluctuating between credibility and chaos, and the unpredictable ventures of the ever-controversial Elon Musk.
With so much happening, let’s take a closer look at the prominent tech trends that defined 2024, showcasing both the innovative and the rather perplexing.
4 Trends That Made 2024
Generative AI
Love it or hate it, generative artificial intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly made its mark this year. From serendipitous conversations with chatbots like ChatGPT to creating intricate art with platforms like DALL-E, generative AI tools have become household names. The technology has transformed not only how we interact with machines but also how companies approach customer service, content creation, and even legal matters.
AI is reshaping entire industries, steadily proving it can pass medical exams and legal certifications while producing full-length podcasts from mere text prompts. However, this rapid evolution brings with it challenges. The line between real and fake is increasingly blurred, leading to concerns over misinformation and the future of numerous job sectors. Despite its drawbacks, one thing is clear: Generative AI has fundamentally changed the tech landscape of 2024.
Assistive Tech
While generative AI caught our attention, assistive technology quietly made waves in 2024, focusing on improving lives, particularly for those with disabilities. At major tech events like CES 2024, we saw fascinating innovations: gloves to stabilize tremors, smart belts aiding navigation for the visually impaired, and glasses that read signages or menus aloud.
Projects like a prosthetic "third thumb" have enhanced dexterity, while haptic vests from Not Impossible Labs allow deaf individuals to experience music through vibrations. The gaming world also took significant strides, unveiling customizable controllers designed specifically for gamers with disabilities. Assistive technology, often overlooked, showed us that compassion and innovation can intersect in remarkable ways this year.
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
The emergence of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) has propelled us closer to a science fiction reality. These technologies translate brain waves into signals machines can understand, making them groundbreaking tools for medical rehabilitation. The controversial company Neuralink has pushed boundaries by implanting chips in humans, enabling patients to control devices and communicate through thought.
Outreach projects have seen notable use cases, including a man with ALS using a BCI to translate his brain waves into text. As companies explore various applications—from productivity tracking to monitoring brain health—BCIs are set to reshape our understanding of neuroscience and technology.
Retro Reimagined
In an increasingly unpredictable world, many companies embraced nostalgia, delivering retro-inspired technologies with modern twists. Kodak revamped its iconic Super 8 film camera, while developers introduced updated versions of cassette players and handheld gaming devices. This longing for the past blended with current functionality has allowed consumers to find comfort and innovation in familiar designs, reflecting a yearning for simpler times amidst complexity.
6 Trends We Didn’t Like
AI Assistants
As artificial intelligence surged, many companies leaped at the chance to create their own versions of AI assistants—often with mixed results. Devices like the Humane AI Pin promised to revolutionize how we interact with technology, but early reviews highlighted glaring performance issues. Similarly, the Rabbit R1—touted as an all-in-one device to replace smartphones—failed spectacularly, leaving early adopters disappointed.
Despite the lofty ambitions surrounding AI assistants, these products often struggled to deliver on their promises, underscoring the limitations of current technology.
Cryptocurrencies
The cryptocurrency market continued its erratic journey in 2024, characterized by a disorienting mix of genuine digital currencies and outright scams. The emergence of Worldcoin, which requires users to scan their eyes to gain access, raised eyebrows and ethical questions surrounding privacy and identity verification.
As countless coins surfaced—many relying on gimmicks rather than substance—the marketplace felt increasingly saturated and confusing, leaving many wary of participating in what seems like an unsteady financial gamble.
The Cybertruck
Elon Musk’s Cybertruck was pitched as a rugged vehicle ready for any adventure. Yet, after delivery, many owners reported troubles navigating various terrains and concerns over build quality. The stainless-steel exterior rusting and complaints about malfunctioning windows and pedals made headlines, tarnishing the vehicle’s promising image.
With a series of recalls and numerous glitches reported, it appears that this ambitious project has encountered significant hurdles in its rollout, prompting many to question its viability.
Humanoid Robots
The rise of humanoid robots sparked a blend of fascination and unease. Many companies launched efforts to create robots that mimic human movement and behavior remarkably well. However, despite appearances, these creations often fell short of fully embodying human characteristics.
As humanoid robots became more lifelike, their potential to disrupt various industries raised ethical questions, particularly around the implications of human-like machines in workplaces.
Deepfakes
As misinformation grew rampant this year, deepfakes became even more prevalent. This technology allows for the creation of realistic videos or images of people doing or saying things they never did. While it can be entertaining, its potential for harm is significant, leading to manipulated political statements and personal attacks.
What began as mere novelty has morphed into a sophisticated tool for deception, further complicating the landscape of truth in media.
Smartglasses and VR
Smartglasses and virtual reality technology have long promised to reshape how we interact with the world. However, despite significant investments and product releases in 2024—like Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s Quest 3—these innovations struggled to gain traction.
Given the high price points and lingering issues like motion sickness, the anticipated consumer enthusiasm fell flat, leaving many companies scratching their heads about the future of immersive technology.
2024 has been a year filled with both optimism and skepticism in technology. From revolutionary advancements to confusing failures, the tech landscape continues to evolve at a breathtaking pace, significantly impacting our lives and future.
