In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, 2023 was a year that brought forth significant developments and trends across various domains. The year had much to offer, from the relentless pursuit of Artificial Intelligence (AI) supremacy to the emergence of foldable phones and an increased focus on sustainability.
Additionally, the expansion of Augmented Reality (AR) beyond gaming and the soaring adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices added further dimensions to the tech sphere. This article delves into the key tech trends defining the year, providing a brief overview.
Tech Giants in a Fierce AI Arms Race
The year 2023 witnessed the tech world’s obsession with Artificial Intelligence reaching new heights. Every major player aimed to carve out its niche in the AI ecosystem, challenging the dominion of industry leader ChatGPT.
Google, a stalwart in the tech industry, launched its most formidable AI model, Gemini. This offering set the stage for Google’s bid to remain competitive in the AI race. Meanwhile, Microsoft introduced 365 Copilot, a fusion of large language models and data, showcasing impressive capabilities that further fueled the AI race.
Notably, Bhavesh Agarwal, the founder of OLA, a prominent ride-sharing platform, made waves by announcing ‘Krutrim AI,’ a ‘Made in India’ multilingual Large Language Model. This announcement underscored the global reach of AI innovation.
Rumors were rife about Apple, with speculations suggesting its imminent entry into the AI language model arena. If realized, Apple’s offering could challenge ChatGPT, setting the stage for a riveting competition expected to unfold in 2024.
Folding Phones on the Rise
2023 marked a turning point for foldable smartphones, as they gained substantial traction, thanks to impressive new launches and growing consumer adoption.
OnePlus, a well-known name in the smartphone industry, made a significant impact with its inaugural foldable smartphone. Praised for its exceptional design, build quality, minimal crease, and robust camera setup, OnePlus entered the foldable market with a bang, capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts worldwide.
Not to be left behind, Tecno introduced budget-friendly foldable options such as the Phantom V Fold and the Phantom V Flip. These offerings widened the accessibility of foldable technology, making it more attainable for consumers.
Google also entered the foldable arena with the launch of ‘Pixel Fold,’ its first foldable device. While unavailable in all markets, its debut hinted at the intensifying global competition in the foldable smartphone segment.
Motorola, a pioneer in the field, continued to contribute to the foldable trend with the introduction of the Moto Razr 40 and Razr 40 Ultra clamshell smartphones. These devices reinforced the versatility and enduring appeal of foldable designs.
The increased availability and diversity of foldable smartphones in the market have disrupted the dynamics of both the Indian and global smartphone markets, promising exciting developments in the years to come.
Tech Giants Commit to a Greener Future
2023 witnessed an unprecedented emphasis on sustainability in the tech industry, with major players like Apple taking bold steps towards achieving carbon neutrality.
The Apple Environmental Progress Report 2023 unveiled the company’s commitment to clean energy initiatives, which included powering data centers and product manufacturing with renewable energy sources. This commitment resonated with a growing consumer awareness of environmental issues, driving a strong interest in sustainable technology solutions.
The global shift towards electric vehicles and renewable energies reflects changing consumer preferences, with sustainability becoming a core criterion in tech product choices.
Augmented Reality Beyond Games
In a significant leap for Augmented Reality (AR), Apple announced ‘Apple Vision Pro,’ a mixed-reality headset poised to transcend the boundaries of gaming.
While the ‘Apple Vision Pro’ official launch was slated for 2024, the announcement itself marked a pivotal moment in AR’s evolution. This mixed-reality headset promises to revolutionize various facets of life, from work meetings to entertainment, by seamlessly blending the physical and digital worlds.
The anticipation and excitement surrounding the ‘Apple Vision Pro’ have set the stage for a transformative shift in AR adoption, with its applications extending far beyond gaming.
Internet of Things (IoT) Everywhere
The adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices experienced explosive growth in 2023, with applications spanning smart lighting, wearables, and more.
Reports indicate a remarkable surge in the sales of Indian wearables and hearables brands like boAt, Noise, and pTron, which saw sales increase over threefold in the last three fiscal periods.
According to research by Statista, the number of connected IoT devices worldwide is projected to reach an astonishing 30.9 billion by 2025. This proliferation encompasses a wide range of IoT devices, from smart lighting and wearables to interconnected appliances, permeating homes and businesses.
