2024 proved to be a pivotal year in technology, marking the undeniable arrival of the AI era and witnessing fierce competition across various consumer tech sectors. From AI-powered PCs to the evolution of smart rings and the ongoing battle for mobile dominance, the year was packed with innovation. Having personally tested over 100 new products in 2024, I’ve identified four that significantly impacted my daily life, revolutionizing my workflow and fundamentally changing how I work.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3: A Game-Changer for Video Creation
Side of the Osmo Pocket 3
Throughout my 18-year career in the tech industry, I’ve explored various roles, from writing and reviewing products to leading teams and managing websites. However, video creation has always been a challenge. The time commitment required for video production is significantly greater than writing, and adapting to different aspect ratios and orientations has been a constant hurdle. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has finally provided a solution.
This portable camera, boasting a 1-inch sensor and integrated gimbal, offers numerous advantages. Its key features include the ability to use the same high-quality sensor for both front-facing and selfie shots, smooth panning and zooming capabilities, and seamless switching between portrait and landscape modes with a simple screen rotation.
Osmo Pocket 3 side angle including the camera
Osmo Pocket 3 on a table with the external battery pack attached
The rapid transition between 4K 60fps video in 16:9 or 3:2 format and 3K 60fps in 9:16 is invaluable. The Osmo Pocket 3’s compact size allows for easy portability, and the Creator Combo includes the DJI Mic 2, a battery handle, and a tripod, enhancing its versatility.
Osmo Pocket 3 screen on
The Osmo Pocket 3 delivers impressive quality in an incredibly portable package. Since acquiring one, my bulkier Sony cameras have been largely unused. While the Sony offers higher quality for product photography, even that need may soon be met by smartphone cameras. The Osmo Pocket 3’s convenience outweighs minor quality differences, making it my go-to for video capture.
The Rise of AI PCs: Snapdragon X Elite and Intel Lunar Lake
The Asus ZenBook S14 late 2024 model in Scandinavian White showcased at IFA 2024.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite platform launched the AI PC era, delivering exceptional battery life and performance. This led me to switch from my MacBook Air to the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i, a Windows on ARM device. Intel responded with its Lunar Lake platform, bringing similar benefits to the x86 architecture.
I’m currently using the Asus Zenbook S14 powered by Intel Lunar Lake, while the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition remains a reliable companion. These devices provide a seamless Windows experience, minimizing my reliance on Mac-specific applications.
Ray-Ban Meta Smartglasses: Capturing Life’s Moments
A pair of Ray-Ban Meta smartglasses on a table.
The Ray-Ban Meta smartglasses have become indispensable for capturing important moments. Their value became particularly evident during my house-hunting journey with my mother. The glasses allowed me to discreetly record our reactions, easily compile footage in CapCut, and privately upload to YouTube. The first-person perspective facilitated natural conversations while recording, and the extended recording time made capturing entire house tours effortless.
The Ray-Ban Meta smartglasses case.
From vacations to house hunting, the Ray-Ban Meta has proven invaluable. While I hope future iterations improve battery life and fit, these smart glasses are a must-have for documenting life’s experiences.
The Evolution of Smart Rings: Galaxy Ring and Oura Ring 4
The Samsung Galaxy Ring lying on someone
Having relied on the Oura Ring 3 for years, my need for extensive health tracking decreased. The Galaxy Ring, with its slimmer design and improved comfort, became my preferred choice. However, the Oura Ring 4 later reclaimed its position as my primary health data source.
Oura RIng 4 and Galaxy Ring in the hand.
The smart ring market is dynamic, with various competitors vying for attention. While the Oura app could benefit from improved user-friendliness, the data it provides is undeniably valuable.
A Year of Mobile Innovation
iPhone 16 Pro next to the OPPO Find X8 Pro on a bed of pebbles
While specific phones didn’t make my top four, the mobile landscape saw remarkable advancements. The iPhone 16 Pro, with its Apple Intelligence and Notification Summaries, remains a constant companion. On the Android side, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Pixel 9 Pro, and Oppo Find X8 Pro each offered unique strengths.
The Mocha Mousse Motorola Razr Plus in someone
Foldable phones also made strides, with the Motorola Razr Plus 2024, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Honor Magic V3 standing out. These devices, along with the iPhone 16 Pro, have reshaped my expectations for smartphone innovation.
