The tech landscape of 2024 was remarkable, highlighted by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, marking it as one of the most significant technological shifts since the advent of the internet. During the year, consumers were treated to an array of innovative gadgets, including next-generation laptops, smartphones, tablets, and electric vehicles, along with exciting new robots.
However, there were notable absences in services and products that were anticipated for launch in 2024 but have now been delayed until 2025 or beyond. As the dust settles on 2024, ECNETNews presents a recap of the highly anticipated tech innovations that failed to materialize this year.
Apple’s Next-Generation CarPlay
One of the most glaring omissions of the year is the much-anticipated upgrade to Apple CarPlay. Positioned as “the ultimate iPhone experience for the car,” this next-gen platform promised to reshape how drivers interact with their vehicles by integrating the car’s infotainment and instrument systems into a seamless design.
While the current CarPlay version meets basic needs, it remains somewhat disconnected from the overall vehicle interface. The new version has the potential to bring users closer to the concept of an Apple Car, especially since Apple has reportedly ceased development on that project. Unfortunately, the arrival of vehicles equipped with this advanced CarPlay was slated for 2024 but did not materialize as expected. Apple’s official website still claims that the first models are set for a 2024 release, but with the year behind us, consumers are left waiting for the upcoming Porsche models that are rumored to incorporate this exciting technology.
Spotify’s Hi-Fi Tier
Spotify’s promised hi-fi subscription tier has become one of the more curious tech stories in recent years. Announced in February 2021, the rollout of this enhanced service to compete with rival platforms has continuously faced delays, despite assurances from the company. Initially intended to debut against offerings from Amazon, Apple, and Tidal, the launch of Spotify Hi-Fi remains elusive.
As of now, there is still no defined launch date for this long-awaited service, which may eventually be branded as Spotify Supremium or a similar name. Spotify’s CEO indicated that a “deluxe version of Spotify” with improved sound quality is in the works, but it won’t launch in 2024, continuing the trend of unmet expectations.
Tesla’s Affordable Car, Robotaxi, and Unsupervised Full Self-Driving Features
Amidst much anticipation, the absence of Tesla’s budget-friendly car, Robotaxi, and unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities in 2024 was not surprising, especially following CEO Elon Musk’s statements that these innovations were pushed to 2025 and beyond. Critics are pointing to the gap between expectations and current realities as Musk previously suggested the launch of a $25,000 model by 2023, a target that has now shifted significantly.
While Musk had announced possibilities of introducing Robotaxis back in 2020, the actual vehicle is now scheduled for a 2026 release. Additionally, the much-awaited unsupervised FSD, aimed at allowing cars to operate autonomously without human intervention, is also delayed until 2025 after being pushed back from earlier timelines.
