2024’s Must-Have Gadgets: A Dazzling Showcase of Innovation

What an incredible journey 2024 has been! From advancements in AI to robust processors, this year has witnessed technology companies redefining limits. We’re referring to smartphones that can think for you, speakers that transform any space into a concert, and laptops that serve as powerhouses for both work and play. The pinnacle of technology in 2024 wasn’t solely about practicality — it was a tribute to significant innovation with a dash of flair. Let’s jump right in!

Smartphones

Shining brightly

Google Pixel 9 Pro

Featuring an exceptional camera and impressive battery longevity, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL truly distinguished itself in a highly competitive flagship lineup. The remarkable qualities of the phone include not just the technical specifications but also the diverse and rich user experience, alongside AI-enhanced features that Google now delivers — leaving virtually no grounds for dissatisfaction. Even the fragile design from the past 2 years has been rectified with this version, which produces some of the finest smartphone photography we’ve observed this year.

Shutter at the ready!

Apple iPhone 16 Plus

What I appreciate about the iPhone 16 Plus is that you don’t have to pay exorbitant prices to enjoy nearly all the latest flagship capabilities — encompassing both its software and hardware.

This visual delight features the new Camera Control button, new photographic styles, and infinitely customizable tone, palette, and color adjustments. Additionally, it includes Apple Intelligence, which introduces the first batch of AI-driven experiences onto the iPhone. This, along with a capable A18 chip, ensures smooth multitasking with all the charm of a flagship, without being the costliest option in the range.

Productivity companion

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

With its foldable design and stylus compatibility consistently being an advantage for productivity, this year introduced a plethora of AI functionalities on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6. Users who prefer large foldables for work, commerce, and travel will appreciate the new Live Translate feature, along with the AI Composer that activates while composing emails or the Gemini-powered reply suggestions when responding to messages. This “phablet” accomplishes tasks efficiently while allowing you to have fun when you’re off the clock.

Flip ‘n go!

Moto Razr 50 Ultra

A flip phone you’ll love to show off! A smartphone with highly customizable elements for the cover display, it also enhances the user experience on the 4-inch screen.

This device is loaded with games — something many other manufacturers have yet to achieve on their cover displays in the flip form. It allows customization of the action when flipping open to answer or end calls. In Tent mode, it displays my dog’s pictures as an automatically-shuffled gallery on the cover screen. The Google Gemini integration facilitates rapid information retrieval and typing quick responses to messages and emails with ease.

Audio devices

Party initiator

Sony ULT Field 7

Designed for the liveliest parties, the Sony ULT Field 7 speaker delivers strong bass and captivating lighting effects! While it may not be the lightest portable speaker available, it can still be carried from one location to another. The device allows connection to a microphone for karaoke nights or a guitar for you and your friends to enjoy. The unique selling point of this speaker is the dedicated ULT button, which enhances the bass with a single press. ULT1 amplifies the lower-frequency bass, while ULT2 boosts punchy bass.

Locally produced headphones

Sonic Lamb

Although technically a late 2023 arrival in the marketplace, Sonic Lamb remains the most cutting-edge Indian headphones this year.

Offering four experience modes you can switch between — Hear, Feel, Immerse, and Beast, this headphone includes a sub-woofer for a more immersive audio experience. ‘Hear’ is ideal for classical and instrumental music, as well as podcasts, audiobooks, calls, and meetings. ‘Feel’ immerses you in the rhythm of the music, activating the subwoofer gently. It provides a balanced sound profile, perfect for a wide array of music styles including metal, rock, jazz, and more. ‘Immerse’ targets bass enthusiasts and is equally great for enjoying EDM, hip-hop, or rap. ‘Beast’ is perfect for gaming, as sounds explode, rumble, and boom around you.

Wireless marvel

Apple AirPods Pro 2

Renowned for its superior acoustic quality, the Apple AirPods Pro2 now also emphasizes hearing health. In addition to a new Loud Sound Reduction function, the ear tips have been redesigned to offer passive noise cancellation. A new Hearing Test feature enables users to promptly check their hearing from the comfort of their homes within minutes. Lastly, the device introduces a distinct Hearing Aid capability for users experiencing mild to moderate hearing impairment. Utilizing thepersonalised hearing profile from the Hearing Test, this latest functionality effortlessly converts AirPods Pro into a clinical-grade hearing apparatus.

Laptops and Tablets

A potent Pro!

Apple MacBook Pro (M4)

Although the latest MacBook Pro (M4) has not undergone any significant design changes, Apple has addressed various user grievances from the previous year’s model. An option to upgrade to a nano-texture display is available, offering a non-reflective matte finish. The keyboard and touchpad remain spacious on this 14-inch model, which now features a 12 MP center stage camera. This new webcam introduces ‘Desk View’ to the MacBook, displaying both my image and any items on my desk during meetings or presentations. The device enhances Apple Intelligence and boasts improved battery longevity, providing nearly 24 hours of uninterrupted video playback!

Tablet narratives

OnePlus Pad 2

Featuring an outstanding 12.1-inch screen and a robust set of speakers, the OnePlus Pad 2 captivated me for an extended period this year. It incorporates Dolby Vision alongside six stereo speakers, creating an exceptional multimedia experience — whether for films, series, or gaming. Coupled with the relatively lightweight OnePlus Smart Keyboard, it allows for convenient typing and editing on its spacious keyboard layout. The new Open Canvas feature enables me to view up to three different applications at once. Moreover, there’s an impressive Recording Summary function embedded in the voice recorder, efficiently summarizing my recorded interviews and meetings.