The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for technology, with several innovative and unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact on the industry. From Apple's entry into spatial computing to Meta's advancements in augmented reality, this year has seen significant developments that will shape the future of tech.

One of the most notable moments was the launch of Apple's Vision Pro, the company's first foray into the world of mixed reality (MR). The device, described by The Verge's editor-in-chief Nilay Patel as "magic, until it's not," has been impressive, but its long-term impact remains to be seen. Will Apple's Vision Pro be the catalyst that kickstarts a new era of spatial computing?

Meta, meanwhile, has made significant strides in its metaverse division, investing billions of dollars into the development of Project Orion, a pair of augmented reality (AR) glasses that promise to revolutionize the way we interact with technology. According to Deputy Editor Alex Heath, who got a demo of the device, Project Orion represents a significant leap forward in AR technology, putting Meta in a strong position to lead the charge in this space.

Wearable AI assistants were another major trend in 2024, with devices like the Rabbit R1 and Humane's AI Pin generating significant buzz at CES 2024. Although these devices ultimately failed to live up to expectations, they represent an important turning point in the development of AI interactions, paving the way for more sophisticated and intuitive interfaces in the future.

Smartphone upgrades were also a major focus in 2024, with Samsung, Google, and Apple all prioritizing AI and camera capabilities. Apple's iPhone, in particular, saw significant improvements, including the introduction of a dedicated camera button, which The Verge put to the test in an extensive review.

But 2024 was more than just a collection of individual tech releases – it was a year that saw significant advancements in the field of artificial intelligence, with AI-powered features becoming increasingly ubiquitous across a range of devices and platforms. As the tech industry looks to the future, it's clear that AI will play an increasingly central role in shaping the direction of innovation.

In a year that was marked by both excitement and disappointment, one thing is clear: 2024 will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the development of technology. As we look to the future, it will be fascinating to see how these innovations continue to evolve and shape the world around us.