Technology continues to advance as we approach 2024. It is transforming the way we work, live, and interact with our environment.
In fact, 2023 was a very exciting year for technology. Some of you might enjoy my recent podcast, in which I discussed what I believed were the most important tech issues from last year.
To anticipate the technological trends that will shape the landscape of 2024, you need to have a deep understanding of the current developments as well as a foresight of the changing needs of society. The vast list of topics available makes it difficult to select one.
Let’s look at my top five predictions for technology in 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 providing a Windows experience similar to x86 with few app or peripheral problems. It offers power and battery benefits that x86-based processors cannot.
AMD is at the forefront with its Zen architecture, which has changed the game in the CPU industry. AMD and Microsoft’s collaboration in adopting Arm for Windows PCs aligns with the efficiency and performance objectives that both companies are striving for.
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 devices will provide consumers with a balance between high-performance computing, energy efficiency, and a wide range of applications.
In the past, Qualcomm’s first Snapdragon-based PCs failed to capture a significant share of the market. This was because users and IT managers did not want to adopt a new laptop class that could have issues with app compatibility and may not be able to provide enough performance for video editing and photo editing.
The company’s new Snapdragon X-Elite processors show promising results in terms of performance and battery life (in a similar ballpark to what Apple achieved with its M-family of chips).
I expect that customers will pay attention as companies such as Dell, HP, and others offer laptops equipped with Qualcomm’s new chips.
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 ARM, as Windows PCs are increasingly focusing on mobility and connectivity. Snapdragon-powered Windows computers will probably excel at always-on connectivity and battery life. They’ll also be able to integrate with 5G networks seamlessly.
AMD and Qualcomm will benefit most from this shift in 2024 as Windows-based PCs based on Arm become more popular.
These chipmakers’ commitment to advancing processor technology is in line with the evolving market demands. This will offer consumers a new generation of Windows computing characterized by enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and seamless connectivity.
AI solutions will become more accessible, particularly on PCs.
AMD and Qualcomm will benefit greatly as the tech sector anticipates the arrival of Windows PCs based on Arm architecture. This transition marks a departure from traditional x86-based architecture and positions these companies as leaders in this changing landscape.
AI-based data has enabled supercomputing to become affordable and accessible for all.
AMD’s Instinct MI300 Series Accelerators enable it to adopt an industry-standard approach, allowing for a better value proposition in terms of pricing compared to companies such as Nvidia. Nvidia is the leader in this market but tends to be more expensive and proprietary.
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. This could be a game changer in the CPU market. However, it will depend largely on Microsoft’s ability to convince users that AI is important 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 aligns with the efficiency and performance goals that both companies are striving to achieve. AMD’s ability to deliver powerful yet energy-efficient processors makes it a key player in the Arm-based Windows PC market.
AMD devices are designed to offer a balanced combination of performance computing and energy efficiency, catering to applications ranging from gaming to productivity.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Elite chips offer significant AI benefits. These chips use AI-enhanced features to optimize network performance and ensure efficient data transmission.
Machine learning algorithms improve the overall user experience by predicting network conditions and reducing latency on mobile devices. Snapdragon X chips enable a seamless AI-driven experience and put Qualcomm at the forefront of mobile AI innovation.
AMD and Qualcomm will be the biggest beneficiaries of this transformational shift as Arm-based Windows PCs become more popular in 2024. They are committed to improving processor technology to meet the evolving needs of the market. This will offer consumers a new generation of Windows computing characterized by improved performance, energy efficiency, and seamless connectivity.
Intel, once a dominant force in the technology industry, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s, is now facing new challenges despite its recent move into AI-based processor technology.
Intel is still a major player in the PC market and could be a leader in AI-enabled desktops and laptops. However, the company seems to have issues with its vision and user satisfaction.
Intel’s ability is questioned in light of the changing market dynamics and financial pressures. Intel’s shift in market position is a reflection of the rapidly changing technology landscape, where adaptability and innovation are key. It’s no longer 2002.
As 5G matures, it continues to transform connectivity.
In many ways, the benefits hype of 5G, which began in 2018, has been clumsy. The initial 5G rollout faced a number of challenges that contributed to a less-than-elegant launch. The complexity of infrastructure deployment, the varying standards around the world, and the requirement for substantial investments all contributed to a less-than-smooth transition.
Issues such as limited device availability and inconsistent service coverage caused a fragmented experience. Coordinating efforts between telecom operators and compatibility issues complicated the early stages of the 5G launch.
Things are brightening up, which could unleash the full potential of 5G.
Rollout of the 5G network has started, bringing faster and more reliable connections. Anticipate the widespread maturity of 5G technology in 2024. This will enable a seamless, interconnected world.
5G is not just about faster internet speeds for smartphones but also about the Internet of Things (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.