Best of the decade: Tech breakthroughs
In the past ten years, new inventions have completely changed the everyday habits of people and have increased our dependence on technology. Here are the most important breakthroughs of the last decade:
The New IPhones: The iPhone 4 model was released in 2010. Since then there have been over 10 new models of iPhones released every year, and now the most recent model is the iPhone 11. Over the decade, more and more features have been added to new phones, like FaceID, removing the home button, and Animoji’s. The iPhone 12 will be the first iPhone released during the start of the 2020s.
The iPad: The first iPad was released on April 3rd, 2010. This was the first release of technology that combined the advantages of the portability of a phone with the storage and function of a computer. In total, Apple has released 5 different types of iPads in the last 10 years, and the iPad Air 2 is used by all SJC students. The Apple Pencil was also released in 2015 as a stylus that can be used with the iPads.
AirPods: When Apple released the iPhone 7 without a headphone jack in 2016, it also released its newest line of technology: AirPods. These pocket sized earbuds are a smaller and wireless option for listening to music, though pretty expensive. Apple just released the second generation of AirPods that have a new noise cancellation feature at an even higher price.
Amazon Echo: The release of Amazon Echo in 2014 with Alexa completely changed the use of speakers around the house. Having Amazon Echo speakers gives you access to a virtual assistant that plays music, looks up information, and can control lighting and temperature in some homes all based off of voice instructions. Now there are other similar technologies available, like “OK Google” and Microsoft’s Cortana.
Social Media: Instagram was created in 2010 and Snapchat in 2011. These two apps are some of the most popular social media platforms today and are used by millions of people. Celebrities use the apps for promotions and new careers have come out of being an influencer on social media. This technology started a revolution in how people communicate with each other and proper ways to present yourself online.
The Self Driving Car: Google has spent millions of dollars between 2009 and 2019 developing a completely autonomous car to be used on public roads. Google worked with Waymo, which is a company that specializes in self driving technology. The car has no steering wheel, gas or brakes. In 2017, self driving cars began to be tested on public roads without riders.
Disney+: The last and most recent of these new technologies is the release of Disney+. This platform is similar Netflix or Hulu, except featuring all Disney, Disney channel, Marvel, Pixar and and National Geographic movies and shows. It’s one of many new streaming services available for subscription fees. This technology brings a whole new way to watch all your old favorite movies from your childhood on one app.
