Gadget Revolution: Discover the Top 10 Must-Have Tech Innovations of 2024!

CHENNAI: Artificial Intelligence was a dominant subject throughout a significant part of 2024 as gadget producers from various sectors utilized the advancing capabilities of AI to promote their offerings. Smartphone photography became crisper while the emphasis on wellness persisted in steering the wearable market. We highlight some of the top gadgets we explored in 2024.

Apple Watch 10: Among all the devices that Apple introduced this year, the Apple Watch 10 was likely the most noteworthy enhancement. The redesigned Apple Watch 2024 edition is slimmer and lighter than its forerunner and boasts a substantial 1.96-inch display, which is even bigger than the previous year’s Apple Watch Ultra 2. It offers rapid charging (80% battery in just 30 minutes) and valuable Sleep Apnea alerts. (Rs 46,900 onwards)

Vivo X Fold3 Pro: Our preferred foldable smartphone from 2024, the X Fold3 comes equipped with a colossal main display that expands to 8.03 inches alongside a fully functional cover display. However, it is the rear camera that stands out as its hallmark feature. Vivo takes advantage of its alliance with Zeiss to provide an exceptional rear camera experience on a foldable smartphone, featuring a triple rear camera setup spearheaded by a 50MP primary lens. (Rs 1,59,999)

ViewSonic M10: It received an IF design award (2024) for its stylish design. This portable projector can easily fit into your thinnest bag; it’s also perfect for family vacations or game nights with friends owing to its expansive screen appeal. With 2200 RGB Laser Lumens brightness and an integrated Harman Kardon speaker, the M10 serves as a potent mobile entertainment solution. (Rs 1,50,000)

Dyson OnTrac: Arguably the most impressive headphones launched in 2024, Dyson’s premium headphones offer a new perspective on customization supported by the brand’s meticulous attention to detail. Made from aluminium, these headphones come with an array of cushions and caps (optional accessories) to tailor your appearance. The noise cancellation is remarkable, and the plush cushions effectively block outside noises. Plus, there’s an incredible 55-hour battery life. (Rs 44,900)

OnePlus Pad 2: This high-end Android tablet with its all-metal unibody structure and refined matte finish can also serve as a laptop substitute during a quick business trip or beach getaway. We appreciate the captivating 12.1-inch 3K display with an impressive 144 Hz refresh rate, ideal for gaming or binge-watching. OnePlus’ enhanced Smart Keyboard adds to its charm as a productivity device. (Rs 37,999 onwards)

Beats Pill – Kim Special Edition: This unique, special edition of the Beats Pill developed in partnership with Kim Kardashian perfectly combines style and audio quality. It impresses with its lightweight build (680 gm) and durability (IP67-rated for dust and water resistance). However, the standout feature is the soundstage; the speaker is equipped with a larger, custom racetrack woofer and offers 24 hours of battery life. (Rs 16,900)

Whoop 4.0: It operates quietly in the background, allowing you to concentrate on your fitness routines. Whoop has finally made its debut in India with the latest version of its Activity Tracker. Favored by elite athletes worldwide, the Whoop 4.0 (available through a subscription model) shines with its wellness metrics and sleep tracking capabilities in an ultra-light, all-weatherproof design. (Rs 23,990)

Google Pixel 9 Pro: Likely our most adored Android smartphone this year, Google’s compact flagship device is the ultimate choice for users seeking ‘Pro-level’ features in a more ‘pocket-friendly’ format. This gadget not only excels with its remarkable rear camera but also provides one of the leading on-device AI experiences available on any smartphone, enhancing everything from photography to meeting summaries. (Rs 1,09,999)

OPPO Find X8: OPPO has expanded boundaries with its Find X series of smartphones. The Find X8 is the latest model benefiting from OPPO’s camera collaboration with the renowned Swedish brand Hasselblad. This is one of the best smartphone camera experiences for its price and performs exceptionally well in Portrait photography. (Rs 69,999)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 – AMD: It is the first-ever x86 Lenovo ThinkPad equipped with next-gen AI functionalities boasting 50 TOPS of processing power. This laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 processor; it is ideally positioned for complex data analysis and real-time machine learning, complemented by Windows 11 that further harnesses AI for enhanced productivity and tailored computing experiences. (Rs 1,38,000 onwards).

(Ashwin Rajagopalan is a lifestyle writer and consumer technology specialist. Stay updated with the latest digital and technological trends in this weekly column.)