1 / 10In 2024, tech innovations transformed industries, from autonomous ride-hailing to AI-powered smartphones. Trends like Bitcoin’s surge, video-first podcasting, and the rise of smart rings are making waves, while major digital figures face controversies and smartphone brands push digital detox features. Here’s a snapshot of the latest tech shifts.
2 / 10Tesla’s Cybercab Sparks Hype | Tesla’s Cybercab, which generated massive hype around its potential to transform transportation, is set to launch in 2026/27. Powered by Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, the robotaxi promises affordable, driverless rides with a range of 400 miles per charge.
3 / 10Artificial Intelligence in Smartphones | AI-enhanced smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google Pixel 8 Pro now offer real-time AI photo editing, multi-language live transcription, and smart battery optimisation. On-device AI chips, such as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, have improved processing speeds by 45% while reducing energy consumption. Over 1.8 billion smartphones globally now support AI-powered voice assistants.
4 / 10Apple Intelligence Rolls Out Slowly | Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s next-gen AI system, is creating a buzz with its advanced capabilities for Siri, Apple apps, and devices. However, the rollout has been staggered, with most countries not expecting access until late 2025. Early adopters in select regions are already exploring its enhanced functionality, such as hyper-personalised recommendations, context-aware assistance, and improved privacy features. Despite the excitement, global availability remains limited, fueling anticipation for the broader launch.
5 / 10Bitcoin Surges Past $100,000 | Bitcoin reached a new milestone in 2024, surging past the $100,000 mark for the first time in history. The cryptocurrency’s rally was fueled by growing institutional interest, with companies like BlackRock and Fidelity offering more crypto-related services. In addition, regulatory clarity in major markets like the US and European Union provided a more stable environment for Bitcoin to thrive. Experts predict that Bitcoin’s price could continue to rise as more investors flock to digital assets as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
6 / 10AI Video Generation Buzzes in 2024 | AI video generation tools like OpenAI’s Sora and Google’s latest updates are taking content creation by storm in 2024. These tools enable users to create cinematic videos from simple text prompts, reducing production costs and time. OpenAI’s Sora, launched in December 2024, and Google’s advanced video tools are making it easier for creators, marketers, and businesses to generate realistic videos and personalised content.
7 / 10Podcasting Goes Video-First | In 2024, podcasting really took off as a video-first trend. More and more podcasters started adding videos to their shows, either through platforms like YouTube or social media apps like TikTok and Instagram Reels. This shift is all about reaching a bigger audience, as video lets creators engage fans in new ways. Even Spotify is jumping on the bandwagon, rolling out tools for video podcasting. The move is helping podcasts grow their reach and open up more ways to make money.
8 / 10The Biggest YouTubers Face Controversies | MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) faced a lawsuit and backlash over his Amazon Prime game show, ‘Beast Games’, with allegations of unsafe working conditions and exploitation of contestants. The accusations followed the release of the show, centred around extreme physical challenges and inadequate safety protocols despite the high-stakes nature of the competition. On the other hand, MKBHD (Marques K Brownlee), an influential tech YouTuber, sparked controversy over his wallpaper app, Panels, which was criticised for its high subscription fees and limited functionality despite being marketed as a free app. Additionally, his sponsored video with DJI, which featured reckless driving in a school zone, attracted instant backlash for promoting unsafe behaviour on public roads.
9 / 10Smart Rings Gain Popularity in India | Smart rings are becoming a popular wearable in India, with sales surging in 2024. Sales of smart rings have seen a significant increase, with brands like Ultrahuman leading the charge while the smartwatch market has declined. The average selling price for wearables in India is rising, and smart rings are becoming a key segment.
10 / 10Smartphone Makers Promote Digital Detox | Smartphone brands are increasingly emphasising digital detox as a business opportunity in 2024. Companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo have introduced dedicated features that promote mental well-being and screen time management. These include focus modes, screen time limits, and wellness apps aimed at helping users reduce device dependency. According to a Deloitte survey, over 40% of smartphone owners admit to spending excessive time on their phones, leading brands to innovate solutions like Apple’s Screen Time and Google’s Digital Wellbeing tools. Brands like OPPO have also integrated features like “Breathing Mode”, which encourages users to take a break from the screen, and Xiaomi’s “Focus Mode”, which limits notifications for productivity.
