As 2024 draws to a close, discussions surrounding the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on businesses and everyday life have intensified. Reflecting on 2023’s significant advancements, this year has witnessed generative AI become a household term, as it permeates every aspect of technology and business practices.
Marc McLaren, Global Editor-in-Chief of Tech Radar, compares the current AI landscape to the early years of the internet, stating it is quickly becoming integral to daily operations. He notes, "AI has been everywhere this year... and it will soon be impossible to imagine what the world was like before it." This sentiment echoes across various sectors, highlighting that businesses are increasingly dependent on AI tools and platforms to enhance productivity and innovation.
2024 saw major players like OpenAI and Google make substantial strides in AI development, particularly with "reasoning models" that allow deeper user engagement. OpenAI’s fresh approach aims to make interactions more personable, while Google’s Gemini 2.0 focuses on “Flash Thinking” capabilities. The Tech Times further elaborates that advancements in AI have not only elevated generative capabilities but also broadened applications across automation, robotics training, and cybersecurity.
One notable shift observed during the year was in the smartphone market where AI-driven features became commonplace. Philip Berne, US Mobiles Editor at Tech Radar, emphasises that AI is now a fundamental consideration in every phone launch. Advances are prominent, with Samsung introducing AI capabilities in the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Apple integrating its "Apple Intelligence" features into the iPhone 16. These developments signify a broader trend where smartphone combatants are leveraging AI to enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
In the realm of immersive technologies, there was a sense that while physical AR/VR devices such as Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta's Quest 3S generated significant interest, their adoption lagged due to high price points and mixed user experiences. Nonetheless, the emergence of frameworks like Meta’s Horizon OS signals a promising future for mixed-reality devices, suggesting that while hardware struggles, software ecosystems are laying the groundwork for future innovations.
In the field of robotics, advancements continued to capture attention, particularly with AI’s integration into robotic systems. The rise of AI-powered robots capable of producing artwork marked a revolutionary moment in the tech industry, illustrating the potential of machines to contribute creatively. The Tech Times discussed how innovations in robotics tackle tasks that were once the exclusive domain of humans, signalling a potential reshaping of job markets and labour dynamics.
However, as businesses embrace these technologies, concerns regarding privacy and cybersecurity remain paramount. In 2024, we witnessed increased attacks from cybercriminals, which drove a parallel focus on AI’s role in enhancing cybersecurity measures. The application of AI to expedite detection and response strategies has become essential in safeguarding digital assets.
Amidst these advancements, discussions of AI's future capabilities are prominent as industry experts predict a clear trajectory towards artificial general intelligence (AGI). Graham Barlow, Senior Editor at Tech Radar, reports on insights from leading thinkers such as Dr Ben Goertzel, who believes AGI's arrival is imminent, speculating, "2029 is his estimate". This assertion stirs ongoing dialogue regarding the implications of AGI for humanity and the economy.
Looking ahead to 2025, projections suggest a continued integration of AI across various business practices, with predictions of emerging technologies like next-generation smartphones and consumer-grade robotics. As industries evolve and adapt to these advancements, companies will likely face both challenges and opportunities in leveraging AI's full potential.
Overall, the narrative surrounding AI throughout 2024 has been one of rapid change and increasing incursion into various sectors, suggesting that as organisations integrate these technologies, the landscape of business, creativity, and daily interactions will be notably transformed in the years to come.
Source: Noah Wire Services