×
4 Big Tech breakthroughs that made 2024 a breakout year for AI
Written by
Published on
Join our daily newsletter for breaking news, product launches and deals, research breakdowns, and other industry-leading AI coverage
Join Now

From breakthroughs in multimodal AI to the democratization of artificial intelligence through consumer products, 2024 marked a watershed moment that fundamentally reshaped how we interact with technology in our daily lives. No industry remained untouched as ChatGPT and its competitors evolved from interesting novelties into essential workplace tools. AI’s influence expanded far beyond its early role as a sophisticated chatbot, fundamentally altering how we approach creativity, productivity, and problem-solving in the modern world.

  1. OpenAI ChatGPT Evolution
    • Released GPT-4o, expanding into multimodal capabilities that combine text, image, and data analysis
    • Launched Advanced Voice Mode featuring natural-sounding conversational abilities
    • Introduced Sora, enabling text-based generation of video content
    • Added collaborative features through Canvas Mode and improved organization with Projects
    • Concluded the year with “12 Days of OpenAI,” showcasing daily platform enhancements
  1. Google’s Gemini Transformation
    • Transitioned from Bard to Gemini branding in February
    • Rolled out Gemini 1.5 in May with expanded functionality
    • Extended Gemini integration across Google Home ecosystem, replacing Google Assistant
    • Introduced Gemini Live for voice-based interactions
    • Deployed Gemini 2.0 in December with significant performance improvements
  1. Apple Intelligence Launch
    • Unveiled during WWDC in June
    • Created compatibility with existing AI models including ChatGPT
    • Implemented creative tools like Image Playground and Genmoji
    • Emphasized on-device AI processing to enhance privacy and performance speed
  1. Meta’s AI Integration

Looking Forward: While 2024 marked significant progress in making AI more accessible and practical for everyday use, it also laid groundwork for potentially more substantial developments in 2025, particularly in areas of multimodal interaction and device integration.

The year in AI: how ChatGPT, Gemini, Apple Intelligence, and more changed everything in 2024

Recent News

AI’s energy demands set to triple, but economic gains expected to surpass costs

Economic gains from AI will reach 0.5% of global GDP annually through 2030, outweighing environmental costs despite data centers potentially consuming as much electricity as India.

AI-generated dolls spark backlash from traditional art community

Human artists rally against viral AI doll portrait trend that threatens custom figure makers and raises questions about artistic authenticity.

The impact of LLMs on problem-solving in software engineering

Developing deep expertise in a specific domain remains more valuable than general AI skills as technology continues to reshape technical professions.