Mobile technology continually evolves, and key trends set to shape smartphones in 2024 include advancements such as AI-driven virtual assistants, augmented reality, digital wallets, and the integration of cloud-based apps.
5G Is The New Standard for Connectivity.
In 2024, 5G is poised to become a game-changer, with services becoming more widely available and the prices for 5G-ready smartphones continuously becoming more affordable.
The GSM Association predicts that 5G mobile adoption will grow from 4% in mid-2023 to 18% (22.1 million mobile connections) by 2025, bridging the digital divide and bringing true broadband speeds to more people.
This advancement enables faster response times for high-quality videos, large files, and graphics-heavy apps.
Additionally, 5G lays the foundation for smart cities, 8K video, virtual reality (VR), and other futuristic applications.
Arrival of Wi-Fi 7
Wi-Fi 7 (11be), the next generation of the Wi-Fi standard, has been finalized, paving the way for the release of Wi-Fi 7 certified products by smartphone manufacturers.
Wi-Fi 7 promises significantly faster wireless networking speeds and the ability to handle more connected devices simultaneously without slowing down.
Although still in its early stages, Wi-Fi 7 is expected to be a critical enabler for the next generation of applications, including VR and cloud gaming.
On-Device Generative AI
Semiconductor companies like MediaTek and Qualcomm are integrating generative AI and large language model (LLM) capabilities directly into smartphone chipsets.
This allows generative AI applications to run on the device, offering advantages such as seamless performance, greater privacy, better security, lower latency, and the ability to function in areas with limited connectivity.
The Samsung Galaxy’s S24 and S24+ Series exemplify this integration, providing features like live translation for calls and in-person conversations, instant slow-mo, and the Pro Visual Engine, all performed on-device without storing data in the cloud.
Satellite-to-device Connectivity on Smartphones
Satellite-to-device connectivity emerges as an exciting trend, enabling smartphones to receive a satellite connection without special equipment.
While early solutions focus on sending emergency SOS texts, the potential exists for internet browsing and calls through satellite-to-device connectivity.
Although mainstream adoption may take time, innovation in this space is expected to unfold in the coming years.
Continued Innovations in Displays
Smartphone displays continue to evolve, becoming sharper, brighter, and more innovative.
Technologies like NXTPAPER 3 from TCL, resembling e-ink but fully colorized and suitable for videos and games, demonstrate advancements in display quality.
This technology filters out harmful blue light, retaining sharp images, vibrant colors, deep contrast, and natural motion.
TCL plans to launch tablets and smartphones equipped with NXTPAPER 3.0 technology in 2024. Advances in display technology, including OLED, QLED, MicroLED, and foldable displays, promise enhanced image quality with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and maximum brightness.
As technology progresses, further innovations in MicroLED and AR/VR displays are anticipated, elevating viewing experiences to new heights.
