In the world of technology, there’s always something new on the horizon. With AI seemingly everywhere and Apple’s Vision Pro headset launching soon, it can feel a bit like we’re already living in the future.
If you find it hard to keep up with all the buzzwords and tech jargon thrown around in the news, we’ve got you covered. Here are 10 big concepts we think every iPhone owner should be familiar with in 2024. Let’s demystify some tech trends!
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is essentially a computer’s ability to “think,” most often seen in smart assistants like Siri. It’s a rapidly advancing field, and Apple will be keen not to be left behind. Expect Siri and other iPhone features to get a significant boost when iOS 18 rolls around.
Large Language Model (LLM)
LLMs are the brains behind conversation-based AI models such as ChatGPT. LLMs are trained on vast arrays of data, a bit like reading a million books and Wikipedia articles. This training allows the AI to better understand and generate text. See our guide to the best LLM-based apps for more.
Machine Learning
Machine learning is AI’s way of learning from experience. It’s used in iPhones for tasks like photo organization and predictive text. The trend is towards more personalized and efficient user experiences through continuous learning from user interactions. iPhones have a specialized “Neural Engine” optimized for machine learning, which is also used to improve your photos at the point of capturing them.
Extended Realities
There are a lot of ‘Reality’ buzzwords these days. In short: Augmented Reality (AR) blends real and digital elements together; Virtual Reality (VR) is a completely immersive digital world; Mixed Reality (MR) is the name for a device capable of both AR and VR; and Extended Reality (XR) is a relatively new term that encapsulates all of these things. Phew. Apple’s ARKit already allows for AR experiences on iPhone and iPad.
Metaverse
Imagine a virtual world where you interact digitally using AR or VR. This is the vision of the future that Facebook and Meta are betting big on. The upcoming Vision Pro headset by Apple, with its mixed reality capabilities, could be your gateway to experiencing this type of computing.
Spatial Video
Immersive 3D video capture that’s only viewable with Vision Pro. The latest iPhone 15 Pro models can capture Spatial Video, meaning you can record an extra dimension to enhance and future-proof happy memories. It might take years to be widely adopted, but we think this is more than just a gimmick.
Rich Communication Services (RCS)
RCS is a modern(ish) replacement for SMS, offering features like high-resolution photos and read receipts. If Apple adopts RCS – which it reportedly will – it could enhance messaging capabilities between platforms, meaning improved chats with your Android-toting green message pals. Here’s what RCS means for you.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT connects devices to the internet. HomeKit already allows iOS to control your smart home devices, like adjusting a Nest thermostat or checking a Ring doorbell camera. IoT is simply a wider interpretation of interconnected stuff.
Blockchain
It’s a secure, digital ledger. You’ve probably heard of blockchain in relation to cryptocurrency, but 2024 will see the technology widen its reach into other areas that require decentralized security.
Sideloading
This means installing apps outside the App Store, like you can do on a Mac. It looks likely that EU mandates will force Apple’s hand to allow sideloading on iPhone and iPad later this year. That means you could potentially download apps that don’t meet App Store guidelines from the internet and install them yourself. Read why we need sideloading.