776: Tech That Worked in 2024
Mac Power Users
Deep Dive
Why did AI become more useful in 2024?
AI became more useful in 2024 as large language models improved, making them practical for tasks like research assistance, transcription, and grammar correction. Tools like NotebookLM and ChatGPT search-based models allowed users to apply AI to their own data, making it more personalized and effective.
What is NotebookLM and how is it used?
NotebookLM is a Google project that allows users to upload documents and create a custom large language model based on their data. It serves as a research assistant, helping users find connections and insights within their own content, such as transcripts, notes, and research materials.
How did the AirPods Pro become more useful in 2024?
The AirPods Pro became more useful in 2024 due to software updates that enhanced their functionality. They now act as both earplugs and hearing aids, allowing users to filter out noise while amplifying voices. Apple also added hearing health features, enabling users to perform basic hearing tests at home.
What are the benefits of the AirPods Pro's hearing health features?
The hearing health features in AirPods Pro allow users to perform basic hearing tests at home, which can help identify mild to moderate hearing loss. This feature is particularly useful for those who may not have easy access to professional hearing tests or who want a quick way to check their hearing health.
Why did Apple Notes become a more popular choice for note-taking in 2024?
Apple Notes became more popular in 2024 due to improvements in its functionality, such as better syncing, highlighting, and linking capabilities. It also became a more viable option for personal knowledge management, especially for users who prefer a native app with multimedia support and easy sharing features.
What is the significance of the 'Keep Downloaded' feature in iCloud Drive?
The 'Keep Downloaded' feature in iCloud Drive allows users to keep files locally on their devices, similar to how Dropbox and OneDrive work. This was a long-awaited feature that improved the usability of iCloud Drive, making it more competitive with other cloud storage services for personal and collaborative use.
How has Notion evolved as a collaboration tool in 2024?
Notion evolved in 2024 by becoming a central hub for collaboration, especially for content creation and project management. Its database and metadata features make it easy to organize and share information with collaborators, and the addition of AI features has enhanced its ability to assist with research and content creation.
What are the limitations of Notion as a native Mac app?
Notion's limitations as a native Mac app include its text handling, which doesn't integrate well with macOS services like spell check and mail links. Additionally, its file handling, especially with PDFs, is not as robust as native apps like Apple Notes, making it less ideal for personal note-taking and document management.
What is the current status of the Vision Pro in 2024?
The Vision Pro is still in its early stages in 2024, with Apple working to refine its use cases and content offerings. While it excels as a media consumption device and has potential for productivity, it hasn't yet become a mainstream product. Apple is slowly building content and improving the software, but it remains a niche product for now.
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