Top 5 Groundbreaking Tech Stories of 2024 Beyond Elon Musk
More Than Musk: Five Tech Stories That Really Mattered in 2024
Source: Boston Globe
1. Tech Titans Go Nuclear
Revival of Nuclear Energy
In a notable shift, major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon secured contracts to purchase electric power from nuclear power plants. This move is part of a strategy to ensure a stable power supply for their expansive data centers.
- Investment by Constellation: A commitment to reopen Three Mile Island by 2028 with a $1.6 billion investment.
- Innovative nuclear startups: Companies like NuScale and Oklo are working on smaller, cheaper reactors expected by 2030.
2. National Security Breach: China is Listening
Cybersecurity Threats
While attention is focused on banning TikTok, a Chinese hacker group, "Salt Typhoon," has infiltrated significant portions of the U.S. telecom networks.
- Major targets included AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, with implications for high-profile officials.
- Advice from cybersecurity officials recommends using encrypted messaging apps for secure communication.
3. Boeing and Intel's Troubles
Year of Challenges
2024 was a tumultuous year for both Boeing and Intel, highlighting serious operational issues.
- Boeing: Experienced major incidents with its 737 MAX and Starliner space capsule.
- Intel: Faced significant financial losses and product malfunctions, losing market share to AMD.
4. Apple Enhances Accessibility
Affordable Hearing Aids
Apple's upgrade to the AirPods Pro 2 turned them into low-cost hearing aids for those with moderate hearing loss.
- Priced at $250, AirPods are now a competitive alternative to more expensive prescription hearing aids.
- Over-the-counter hearing aids have been slow to gain traction despite regulatory changes.
5. The Biggest Tech Flop: Sony's Concord
A Gaming Disappointment
Sony's much-anticipated game, Concord, launched with minimal success, attracting only a limited player base before shutting down two weeks post-launch.
- Analysts speculate an investment of $200 million to $400 million was wasted, leading to one of the biggest failures in gaming history.
- In comparison, titles like Fortnite continue to dominate with millions of active players.
