Throughout 2024, the world witnessed significant developments in artificial intelligence (AI), alongside new legal actions directed at technology companies. This article reflects on major tech stories that shaped the year.
AI Continues to Expand
Throughout the year, numerous companies focused on the development and deployment of innovative AI tools. Notably, Microsoft announced new AI offerings including “personal agents” designed to assist users in business tasks with minimal human intervention. Officials indicated that these agents are intended to enhance existing chatbots, which already produce human-like writing and interactions. Microsoft anticipates a full release of these agents in 2025.
In a separate announcement, Apple unveiled several new iPhones equipped with specialized chips aimed at enhancing AI capability. Chief Tim Cook stated that these new models were “designed for Apple Intelligence from the ground up.”
In October, researchers were reported to be integrating AI with weather prediction models, utilizing past data combined with modern techniques to provide comprehensive weather insights.
Warnings About AI’s Potential Dangers
In California, lawmakers enacted three measures prohibiting the use of AI technologies to generate misleading images and videos during election campaigns, primarily targeted at combating issues related to deepfakes. These misleading representations posed considerable risks during election cycles in 2024.
In May, a gathering of AI developers and government officials in Seoul saw leaders from 16 technology firms pledge to ensure that AI technologies are developed with a focus on public safety.
US Legal Action Against Tech Firms
Legal scrutiny intensified against major technology firms in 2024. A jury previously ruled that Google’s app store operated as an illegal monopoly, leading to a federal judge subsequently ruling Google’s search engine practices similarly unlawful. The U.S. government proposed measures to curb Google’s competitive practices, which the company criticized as government overreach.
Facing its own legal challenges, TikTok requested a U.S. appeals court to prevent a law mandating its Chinese parent, ByteDance, to divest from the platform or face banning. This follows a court ruling requiring the sale by January 19, raising significant regulatory implications.
Advancements in Self-Driving Technology
U.S.-based Aurora Innovation announced plans to deploy a series of driverless trucks intended for efficient freight transport across major public highways starting in Texas. The rollout involves an initial fleet of 20 vehicles and aims to expand to thousands within three years.
Regulatory Progress for Flying Taxis
In a notable development, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has issued final regulatory rules for operating air taxis, establishing crucial pilot training and approval criteria. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker described this as a significant step towards welcoming a new category of aircraft for widespread use in the country.
This year revealed both exhilarating advancements and complex challenges within the technological world, underlining the continuous evolution of AI and its impact on society.
- 0 Comments
- Legal Challenges
- Self-driving Tech