(BNS) Top 10 Tech Stories Of 2024 (On The Newsworthy Podcast)

Dec 14, 2024 16m

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Episode Description

Brian on The Newsworthy podcast with Erica Mandy. Find out more about the show here.

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Reflecting on 2024's Tech Highlights

The episode kicks off with a look back at the biggest tech stories of 2024, guided by Brian McCola, host of Tech Meme Ride Home. Top of the list is the Apple Vision Pro, a product that faced significant hype but ultimately subdued sales, leading to questions about Apple's strategy. The subsequent discussion highlights the emerging category of smart glasses, paralleling the struggles of the Vision Pro. McCola emphasizes that AI underpins many of these discussions, as venture capitalists pour significant investments into AI technologies.

The AI Boom and Its Implications

A central theme revolves around the AI boom—McCola discusses the enormous financial inflow into AI amidst inquiries about its viability as a business. He highlights Nvidia's pivotal role, becoming the most valuable company due to its dominance in the chip market for AI applications. Furthermore, he points to a looming theoretical wall in AI development and stresses the energy demands and costs associated with maintaining this tech.

Advancements in Autonomous Vehicles

The talk transitions into autonomous vehicles, particularly with Waymo's significant progress in expanding self-driving ride services across various cities. McCola notes that 2024 might be seen as a turning point for self-driving tech, while he reflects on the long struggle to achieve such progress and the challenges that remain.

The Quantum Computing Breakthroughs

McCola then shifts the focus to quantum computing, citing recent breakthroughs that could render traditional computers obsolete by solving incredibly complex problems in seconds. He stresses the transformative potential of this technology, not just for advancements in various fields but also for cybersecurity implications.

Geopolitical Tech Wars

The episode also delves into the escalating tech wars between the US and China, highlighting embargoes on chip technologies and the tactical retaliations from China, such as withholding critical resources. This section discusses how these geopolitical tensions are shaping the tech landscape.

Shifting Regulations and the Future of Cryptocurrency

McCola anticipates changes in US tech regulations under a new administration, potentially easing restrictions on mergers and acquisitions. He discusses the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrency, particularly following Bitcoin's value surge, and how regulatory developments may feel like a victory for crypto enthusiasts.

The State of the Gaming Industry

Finally, the podcast addresses the gaming industry's decline in 2024, marked by layoffs and the lack of major game releases. McCola attributes this downturn to post-COVID adjustments and cyclical changes within the industry, hinting at a recovery with anticipated new titles like Grand Theft Auto.

Reflection on Elon Musk's Impact

In conclusion, McCola reflects on Elon Musk's extensive influence across various tech sectors, especially AI and transportation. He posits Musk as perhaps the most powerful individual in the tech landscape, considering his multifaceted ventures and personal impact on innovation and policy.