2024: From OpenAI’s Sora to Google’s Veo, 5 breakthroughs in AI innovation that made headlines

2024 is a monumental year for technological advancement, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a frontrunner in innovation. Devices like the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest Pro stole the show, but what really defined the year was the evolution of AI. Here are five breakthrough AI advances that will shape 2024.

1. OpenAI’s Sora Turbo powers AI video generation

OpenAI has introduced Sora Turbo, a faster version of its AI video generation model. This tool allows users to create realistic videos from text prompts with up to 1080p resolution and up to 20 seconds of playback time. Key features include an improved user interface, storyboarding tools for frame-by-frame editing, and a feed to showcase your work.

Sora Turbo is available through a subscription tier, with basic access included in ChatGPT Plus and higher resolutions available through the Pro plan.

2. Google updates Veo and Imagen models

Google has enhanced its video and image generation tools, Veo 2 and Imagen 3, to improve your creative output. Veo 2 produces realistic video with precise cinematic control, while Imagen 3 creates detailed images across a variety of styles, from photorealism to animation.

Both models include a SynthID watermark to identify AI-generated content and are being gradually rolled out through Google Labs. Veo 2 will be integrated into platforms like YouTube Shorts in 2025, and Imagen 3 will be accessible in more than 100 countries.

3. Microsoft introduces autonomous AI agents

Microsoft has expanded its AI-driven Copilot platform by introducing autonomous agents that streamline business processes. These agents leverage data from Microsoft 365 Graph and Dataverse to help with tasks like lead generation and supply chain management.

New tools in Copilot Studio enable businesses to design customized AI agents, with 10 pre-built agents for Dynamics 365 focused on sales, customer service, and finance.

4. Claude AI adds custom writing styles

Anthropic’s Claude AI chatbot now offers “custom styles,” allowing users to personalize responses based on their writing preferences. Users can choose a preset (Formal, Concise, Descriptive) or create their own style by uploading sample content.

This feature puts Claude on par with competitors like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, which offer personalized options for user interactions.

5. xAI releases Grok-2 model

Elon Musk’s xAI introduced Grok-2 and Grok-2 Mini advanced conversational AI models with enhanced coding and inference capabilities. Grok-2 performed well in our benchmarks, excelling at tasks such as math and complex prompts.

The compact version, Grok-2 Mini, offers faster and more efficient response. In addition, xAI expanded its offering by launching image generation capabilities utilizing the third-party model Flux.1.

A transformative year for AI

2024 saw AI innovations that promise to reshape industries and daily life, from video generation to business applications. As these technologies continue to evolve, the next few years are likely to bring even greater advances, making AI an integral part of the technology world.