The technology that we use to live, work and interact in the world continues its march into 2024.
It’s true that 2023 will be a year of great tech. I hope you enjoy my podcast, which was recorded a couple of weeks ago. SmartTechCheck podcast On what I think were the most significant technology issues in last year.
To anticipate the trends that will shape the technological landscape of 2024, you need to have a deep understanding of the current developments as well as a foresight of the changing needs of the society. There are many hot topics that you can choose from, so it’s not an easy task.
I’ll give you my five top technology predictions for the year 2024. Although I don’t think it is possible to argue with the trends that I have chosen, others may find my perspective and context controversial.
ARM-based computers are finally a big deal.
The tech industry is buzzing with anticipation as we approach 2024. Windows PCs based on Arm will become a major category. AMD and Qualcomm are two key players that will benefit from the transition.
This is a shift from the traditional x86 design, and Arm’s energy efficient design offers a compelling alternative to Windows-powered devices.
Microsoft’s latest version of Windows 11, powered by Arm-based processors is close to offering an x86 Windows experience, with few app or peripheral problems. The new processors offer power and battery-life benefits that x86 classics can’t match.
AMD has always been on the cutting edge of innovation, and its Zen architecture has revolutionized the CPU market. AMD and Microsoft have embraced Arm for Windows-based PCs in order to meet the performance and efficiency goals of both companies.
AMD’s ability to deliver powerful processors that are also power-efficient makes it a key player in the Arm based Windows PC market. AMD-powered products will offer a balanced combination of performance and energy efficiency for a variety of applications including gaming and productivity.
Initially, Qualcomm’s first Snapdragon-based laptops failed to capture a significant share of the market. Users and IT managers were hesitant about embracing a new type of laptop that may have issues with app compatibility and provide insufficient performance for video or photo editing.
Apple’s M family chips have shown promising battery and performance results.
I expect that customers will pay attention as laptops equipped with Qualcomm’s new chips are offered by companies such as Dell, HP and others.
Qualcomm is well positioned to flourish in the era of Windows PCs based on Arm. Snapdragon processors have a reputation for being energy efficient and integrating advanced connectivity features.
Qualcomm’s experience in delivering connected, efficient solutions is a perfect match for the ARM Architecture, as Windows PCs are increasingly focusing on mobility and connectivity. Snapdragon-powered Windows-PCs are likely to excel in connectivity that is always on, battery life that’s extended, and seamless integration with the 5G network, improving overall user experience.
AMD and Qualcomm are the two companies that will benefit most from this shift in 2024 as Windows-based PCs based on Arm become more popular.
These chipmakers’ commitment in advancing processor technologies aligns with an evolving market. They offer consumers a brand new era of Windows Computing characterized by enhanced energy efficiency, seamless connectivity, and enhanced performance.
AI solutions will become more accessible, particularly on PCs.
AMD and Qualcomm will benefit greatly as the tech sector awaits with great anticipation the arrival of Windows PCs based on Arm architecture. This transition represents a departure away from the traditional x86 architectural, placing these companies at forefront of the evolving landscape.
AI-based data has enabled supercomputing to become affordable and accessible for all.
AMD, with its Instinct MI300 Series of accelerators, is adopting an industry-standards approach. This allows AMD to offer a greater value proposition, from a price standpoint, than companies like Nvidia. Nvidia may be a leader, but it tends to focus on proprietary technologies that are more costly.
AMD also bets on its Ryzen AI Threadripper processors, which enable local AI apps with its Zen architecture. AMD believes that this will appeal to a wide range of users. While this could be a game-changer in the CPU market, much of this will depend on Microsoft — who will carry the industry’s water on messaging — successfully convincing users that AI truly matters at the PC level.
It will take time for this process to be completed, as PC OEMs are known to fragment their messages on major innovation topics. Apple is the exception, speaking with a single voice.
The collaboration between AMD, Microsoft and Windows in adopting Arm for Windows PCs is aligned with the efficiency and performances goals that both companies are striving to achieve. AMD’s experience in producing powerful but power-efficient CPUs places the company in a crucial position in the Arm-based Windows PC industry.
AMD devices are designed to offer a balanced combination of performance computing and energy-efficiency, allowing them to be used for a wide range of applications, from gaming to productivity.
From an AI perspective, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon-X Elite chips offer significant benefits. These advanced chips utilize AI-enhanced abilities to optimize network performances, ensuring efficient transmission and connectivity.
By predicting network conditions and reducing latency on mobile devices, machine learning algorithms improve the overall user experience. Snapdragon X chips enable a seamless AI-driven experience and put Qualcomm at the forefront in mobile AI innovation.
AMD and Qualcomm are the main beneficiaries of this transformational shift as Arm-based Windows computers gain popularity in 2024. Their commitment to advancing the processor technology aligns themselves with an evolving market. Consumers will benefit from a new Windows computing era characterized by enhanced energy efficiency, seamless connectivity, and improved performance.
Intel, which was once a dominant player in the tech sector, especially in the 1990s and 2000s is now facing new challenges. This is despite the recent introduction of AI-based CPU technologies.
Intel has a significant share of the PC market and is positioned to become a leading player for AI-enabled computers and laptops. But the company appears to be struggling with vision issues and general user enthusiasm.
Intel’s capacity to effectively meet these challenges is being questioned, given the financial pressures of today and the evolving dynamics of the market. Intel’s new market position reflects a rapidly changing technology industry, where innovation is key. It’s no longer 2002.
As 5G matures, it continues to transform connectivity.
The 5G benefits hype that started in 2018 was inefficient and ineffective in many ways. The initial launch of 5G was not elegant due to several challenges. Infrastructure deployment complexity, global standards that differ, and the requirement for significant investment hampered an easy transition.
The fragmented user experience resulted from issues like inconsistent coverage and limited device availability. Coordinating efforts among telecom operators and addressing concerns about compatibility further complicated early 5G implementation. This resulted in a less than ideal and disjointed launch.
The future is brighter and could unlock the full potential 5G.
The 5G rollout has begun. This will bring faster and reliable connectivity. Anticipate the widespread maturity of 5G technology in 2024. This will enable a seamless, interconnected world.
5G is not just about faster speeds for smartphones. It will also be the foundation of IoT, autonomous vehicles and smart cities.
The integration of 5G in various industries will enhance capabilities such as remote real-time surgeries, augmented realities, and smart infrastructure.
The research on 6G technology is likely to gain momentum in the second half of this decade, paving the way for faster and more efficient communications systems.
It is clear that the global sustainability movement has made a mistake by focusing too narrowly on electric vehicles.
Hybrid vehicles are a practical transitional option for the automotive industry to move away from gas-based cars. They provide a middle ground which addresses immediate environmental concerns, while also easing the switch towards electric vehicles.
Hybrids could have been the more sensible choice during this phase of transition for a number of reasons.
Hybrid vehicles offer a way to gradually move towards cleaner transportation while not requiring a massive infrastructure overhaul. Hybrid vehicles can be refueled at existing gas stations. This makes them easier for the consumer and less expensive.
The limited charging infrastructure, and the long time to recharge the vehicle are two of the main concerns for early electric vehicles. Hybrids eliminate this worry by combining an internal combustion motor and an electric engine. Dual power sources provide a safety measure, as they ensure drivers will not be left stranded should their vehicle exceed its electric range.
While hybrids still use internal combustion engines to power them, the integration of electric motors reduces emissions and increases fuel efficiency. This gradual reduction in environmental impact allows a more gradual shift away from gas-based vehicles. It gives manufacturers and consumers the time they need to adapt, without sacrificing immediate fuel efficiency gains.
Cost is another important issue. EVs have a low value proposition without substantial state and federal tax subsidies. Subsidy free EVs can cost up to $60,000, which limits their appeal for many consumers.
Hybrids have a lower initial cost than electric vehicles. Due to their affordability, hybrids are more affordable for a wide range of consumers. They also encourage a faster adoption and contribute to a widespread reduction in emission. The cost difference between hybrid cars and gasoline-only powered cars is usually around $5,000.
A transitional focus on hybrid vehicles is a balanced and practical way to move away from gas-powered cars. Hybrids ease the transition to a sustainable automotive future by addressing infrastructure concerns, range anxiety and environmental impact.
The myopic focus of EVs on the automotive industry has alienated many consumers. This is a result of indifference towards addressing these challenges with EVs.
Apple’s credibility is put to the ultimate test with Vision Pro.
Extended reality, which includes virtual reality (VR), augmented and mixed reality (MR), will redefine the way we interact with digital and physical environments.
XR technology will mature by 2024 and offer more immersive, interactive experiences. XR applications will include virtual meetings, remote collaboration and augmented reality in education and training.
If the industry rumors hold true, Vision Pro will begin shipping sometime in February or March.
Apple’s “spatial computer” strategy will largely depend on the creation of a “killer app”, which, in my opinion, won’t come from Apple.
In the gaming industry in particular, XR integration will be a major trend, resulting in more realistic and engaging virtual environments. XR is also being used in the medical field, allowing for remote patient monitoring and advanced medical simulations. As technology advances, XR is set to play a vital role in enhancing the way we understand and engage with the world.
Final Thoughts
AI will undoubtedly become a part of our everyday lives by 2024. Its role as a technology that is used behind the scenes will be gone. AI will become more accessible to users and easier to understand with advances in computer vision and natural language processing.
AI will play an increasingly important role in healthcare diagnostics, personalized educational programs, and the creation of new content. Conversational AI powered by sophisticated language modeling will revolutionize customer service and automate many business processes. But as AI becomes more ubiquitous, ethical concerns about data privacy, bias, accountability, and other issues will be raised.
2024 will be a crucial year for technology. AI-based PCs are on the rise, as is 5G, AI and AR/VR/XR. These technologies will drive the transformation of the industry.
As these innovations emerge, we will need to consider the ethical and social implications in order to harness the benefits of the technology for the greater benefit.
As we embrace technological advances, we also need to remain vigilant about shaping an future that is sustainable, and beneficial for the well-being and future of mankind.
