Important AI Trends of the Last 90 Days: Q3 2024 Edition

“There are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen” – Vladimir Ilyich Lenin.

For those who are not so familiar with history, Vladimir Ilyich Lenin was a Russian revolutionary and political theorist who led the Bolshevik Party to power during the Russian Revolution. His words capture the essence of transformative periods in history, and the wisdom he shared over a century ago still resonates today.

That's what I personally feel when I look back at the last 90 days, from July to September of 2024.

In the realm of AI, we are witnessing changes that feel as though decades of technological progress are being compressed into mere months. As Lenin's quote reminds us, there are moments when change happens at a breathtaking pace, and the past few months in AI have been precisely such a period, bringing both opportunities and challenges for businesses and leaders.

Innovations are reshaping industries and challenging how we think about learning and business operations. From enhanced reasoning capabilities to more accessible AI integration on our devices, it is clear that artificial intelligence is no longer just a future concept—it's here, and it's transforming the landscape of human capital development, talent management, and other business functions.

The transformation is happening across businesses, big or small, across industries, new or old.

For L&D professionals, HR managers, and business owners, staying updated with these advancements is not merely optional; it's imperative for keeping your teams competitive and engaged.

If you were to ask me what some of the biggest highlights over the last three months were, here are my top five. I'll share my rationale and, if you agree with my POV, my recommendations, too.

AI Highlight #1. A Step Forward Towards AGI

This is one of the questions that stumped most AI models... until a couple of weeks ago.

Is a four-legged goat considered...

A. Below average

B. Average

C. Above average

If you have the latest o1-preview in your ChatGPT subscription, do copy and paste the question above, and you'll see that AI is "thinking".

By the way, here's the response:

(If you were stumped by the question, don't worry. Most people thought it was B ??)

In case this is new to you, this is the O1, an AI system with enhanced reasoning capabilities. Unlike previous AI models mainly focused on pattern recognition, O1 represents a move towards a more generalized form of artificial intelligence. It’s considered a significant step toward Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), the kind of AI that can understand, learn, and apply knowledge in a general sense, much like a human would.

?? What Does This Mean To You?

Imagine internal training programs that can adapt in real time based on each employee's performance and understanding. With O1's reasoning capabilities, we are looking at the potential for AI to go beyond just content delivery—it could analyze and adapt to individual learning needs dynamically.

This also means smarter automation in decision-making processes, giving managers AI tools that can suggest actions rather than merely present data.

In the context of employee development, this shift opens the door to hyper-personalized coaching, where AI agents provide guidance based on the nuanced understanding of a user’s needs.

AI Highlight #2. AI Integration in Smartphones: Personal Productivity Revolution

Do you have the latest Apple iPhone 16 or Google's Pixel 9 series?

Google and Apple are pushing the boundaries of what AI can do by integrating intelligent features directly into their smartphones.

谷歌 ’s latest Pixel phones, for instance, include several new AI-driven capabilities:

• Gemini Assistant: Helps with everyday tasks like note-taking and productivity.
• AI-Powered Camera Tools: Features like the 'Add Me' tool to enhance photos.
• Enhanced Call Management: Tools for improved call screening and voice assistance.
• Personalized AI-Driven Recommendations: Tailored suggestions based on user behavior.
• Adaptive Battery Life: Optimizes power use for longer usage.

Similarly, 苹果 's iPhone lineup has seen deeper AI integration:

• Siri's Natural Language Processing: Improved contextual understanding for voice commands.
• Photos App: Advanced recognition and categorization for easier photo management.
• Messages: Intelligent suggestions like predictive text and emojis.
• Apple Maps: Proactive route suggestions based on frequent locations.
• Health Tracking: Personalized features like fall detection and sleep analysis on Apple Watch.
• Privacy-Focused Processing: On-device AI to ensure secure user experiences.

These integrations are turning everyday smartphones into powerful productivity tools, effectively making AI a seamless part of the user experience. By embedding AI directly into the devices that employees already carry, both tech giants are making it possible for individuals to access cutting-edge AI without needing extra applications or complex setups.

This trend isn’t limited to just Google and Apple. Companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and ASUS are also investing heavily in integrating AI into their devices. Features such as AI-driven language translation, advanced camera optimizations, and personal productivity aids are becoming standard across their product lines. This growing accessibility means that no matter what brand a user prefers, they are likely to have sophisticated AI tools at their fingertips.

??What Does This Mean To You?

It’s all about accessibility and immediacy. With AI tools embedded directly into smartphones, employees can now leverage intelligent assistants to enhance productivity and streamline learning processes no matter where they are.

Imagine a scenario where an employee has access to an AI coach during a client meeting, providing them with key insights or even generating potential follow-up questions on the spot.

For L&D, training materials can be delivered in real-time and adapted to the employee's context, increasing engagement and retention.

By putting AI at your fingertips, these tech giants are making it easier for businesses to ensure their teams are empowered by technology in their daily activities.

AI integration across smartphones isn’t just a step forward in productivity—it’s a democratization of AI capabilities. Employees at all levels can now benefit from sophisticated AI tools that were once reserved for niche applications, making every individual more capable and informed in their roles.

AI Highlight #3. Veto of SB 1047

Not all impactful events in AI come from technological advancements; some come from the regulatory arena. But just like what we understand from the P.E.S.T.E.L. framework, we know that all these external factors are interlinked.

SB 1047 is a legislative proposal specific to the state of California that sought to establish a regulatory framework for the ethical and safe development of artificial intelligence. Its provisions are aimed at guiding how AI technologies should be developed, deployed, and regulated within the state, setting a precedent for other regions. The recent veto of SB 1047 by California's Governor, Gavin Newsom , a bill aimed at shaping AI's development and use, has made waves across the industry.

This veto underscores the broader challenge of establishing ethical and regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies like AI. It highlights the tension between innovation and oversight, and the difficulties lawmakers face in keeping up with technological advancement.

For more information, you can read about SB 1047 and its potential implications here: SB 1047 Veto News .

This bill could have been instrumental in defining ethical boundaries and regulatory frameworks for AI, and its veto indicates ongoing uncertainty about how to govern this rapidly evolving technology.

This is important because the wrong AI regulations can hinder the country's growth and development. For example, European countries prohibit the launch of certain advanced AI features, such as the Advanced Voice mode and other AI functionalities present in some newer phones. This has led to a significant disparity in how AI tools are being adopted across different regions.

The stringent regulatory environment stunts technological growth and holds back both economic development and the advancement of individual capabilities in Europe. Countries that lag in AI adoption risk missing out on increased productivity, better learning tools, and enhanced efficiencies in business operations, ultimately impacting their competitive standing on the global stage.

Fortunately, things are looking bright for the local scene. Google’s investments in Malaysia are expected to add $3 billion to its GDP and create 26,500 jobs by 2030, focusing on cloud services, AI, and digital skills training. In line with this, Malaysia is developing a National Cloud Policy and an AI regulatory framework aimed at fostering safe, ethical, and sustainable AI use. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also mentioned that an AI Technology Action Plan will be completed within 12 months to drive the country’s digital transformation.

These strategic moves signify Malaysia's commitment to not just harnessing the economic benefits of AI but also ensuring that this technology is integrated into society in a responsible manner. By investing in both infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, Malaysia aims to position itself as a key player in the AI-driven global economy while creating significant job opportunities and uplifting the digital skills of its population.

Read up more about this at:

1. Malaysia plans national cloud policy, AI regulations
2. Malaysia plans to create national cloud policy, AI regulatory framework
3. Malaysia aims to complete AI technology action plan within 12 months, says Anwar

??What Does This Mean To You?

Regulatory uncertainty impacts business decisions—especially when it comes to implementing new technologies.

For readers in Malaysia and across ASEAN, this is a great time to explore the incentives made available by the government. With initiatives like Google's investments and the upcoming AI Technology Action Plan, there are numerous opportunities to leverage government support for AI and cloud services integration. Take the time to investigate these incentives, as they could significantly enhance your organization’s capabilities and ensure you stay ahead in this AI-driven era.

By taking advantage of these incentives, businesses can benefit from financial support, reduced operational costs, and access to valuable resources for digital upskilling. Whether you are an entrepreneur, an HR professional, or a leader in learning and development, these opportunities can provide a foundation for integrating cutting-edge AI into your operations, helping your teams become more adaptable, future-ready, and efficient.

For HR and L&D teams, understanding the implications of such decisions is crucial. Compliance and ethical considerations will play a huge role in how AI can be used in workforce development, recruitment, and employee engagement. Staying informed about regulatory changes will help your organization avoid missteps while implementing AI-based solutions.

Moreover, it's a reminder of the importance of cultivating internal policies that align with emerging best practices in AI, ensuring that as a company, you stay ahead of the curve while safeguarding employee interests.

AI Highlight #4. NoteBookLM Reinventing Learning

When it comes to learning, humans have different modalities - some like to read, some like to do, and some like to listen. Being able to learn using different modalities will ensure that no one is left out in their personal journey.

For me, I enjoy learning through podcasts and audiobooks, as they allow me to engage with content even while multitasking. (like clocking in my 10,000 steps ??)

One of the more intriguing AI developments this quarter is the feature introduced by NoteBookLM, which uses AI to create auto-generated podcasts. Essentially, the AI podcasters discuss source materials provided by users, creating a dynamic, conversational approach to content that is both informative and engaging.

NoteBookLM has expanded to include the ability to create podcasts not only from text documents but also from audio and video sources. This means that learners can access rich discussions derived from diverse media types, making learning more flexible and deeply connected to their preferences.

According to a recent update by Google, this feature is designed to democratize access to knowledge by making it easier for users to transform static or complex information into accessible audio formats. Whether it's a lecture, an industry report, or a video presentation, NoteBookLM turns it into a discussion format that users can listen to at their convenience. This is a step forward in using AI to personalize and simplify learning, ensuring that information is more readily accessible in the ways people find most engaging.

With more and more AI tools such as ChatGPT for personalized learning, NoteBookLM for auto-generated podcasts, Synthesia for video content creation, and Elicit for research assistance, the way we learn will fundamentally change. These tools make it possible to learn in various formats—text, audio, visual—and tailor the experience to individual preferences.

This shift means learners can absorb complex information more conveniently, whether through dynamic discussions, interactive videos, or by receiving succinct research summaries generated by AI. The adaptability and personalization these tools offer ensure that learning is not only more accessible but also more engaging and effective.

If you haven't got your free account, get one here .

??What Does This Mean To You?

"I know kung fu." Remember that iconic scene from the 1999 sci-fi blockbuster Matrix, where knowledge can be "downloaded" into Keanu Reeve's character, Neo?

While we're not there yet, AI's implications for learning are significant.

Imagine transforming lengthy PDF documents or technical training manuals into podcast episodes that employees can listen to during their commute. Not only does this create an opportunity for more convenient learning, but it also adds an element of engagement that static text simply cannot offer.

This is particularly relevant for L&D leaders looking for innovative ways to make learning materials more accessible and engaging for different types of learners. By converting static content into dynamic discussions, NoteBookLM is breaking new ground in how information is consumed, making learning more interactive and less of a chore.

Moreover, this shift allows employees to integrate learning into their daily lives seamlessly, removing traditional barriers like time constraints and accessibility. Employees can gain knowledge in a more natural and integrated way, fitting learning sessions into commutes, workouts, or even while doing household chores, thereby making professional development an ongoing process rather than a scheduled activity.

Additionally, with AI tools like NoteBookLM generating content dynamically, the learning materials can be continually updated to reflect the latest knowledge and practices. This means that L&D leaders no longer have to worry about training manuals becoming outdated. The ability to continuously adapt and personalize learning content ensures that employees are always receiving the most relevant and up-to-date information, ultimately fostering a culture of continuous learning within the organization.

AI tools are also driving engagement by encouraging proactive learning. Employees can use these AI systems to ask questions, explore different topics, and receive personalized feedback—all of which help create a more interactive learning experience. By fostering curiosity and enabling self-directed learning, AI tools like NoteBookLM are helping build a culture where learning is more about exploration and growth rather than obligation.

AI Highlight #5. The Switch from SaaS to AI Solutions

Recently, Klarna made a major strategic decision to cancel its partnership with Salesforce and Workday amidst a broader overhaul to integrate generative AI more deeply into its operations.

Klarna's decision underscores the growing belief that AI-first approaches could potentially offer more cost-effective and flexible alternatives to traditional Software as a Service (SaaS) models. This shift demonstrates how generative AI can replace existing technologies, promising reduced costs, increased personalization, and greater efficiency. Klarna's move is a strong signal of how AI, with its adaptive capabilities, could redefine business applications and influence future business strategies.

Other companies, such as IBM and 微软 , are also moving in this direction. IBM has been focusing on AI-powered customer service and operational management solutions as a way to replace conventional software systems, aiming for increased responsiveness and reduced human intervention.

Similarly, Microsoft has been developing AI-driven business tools that integrate capabilities like AI-powered analytics and automated reporting, providing businesses with a more seamless, data-rich user experience that goes beyond traditional subscription-based software.

However, transitioning from SaaS to an AI-grounded approach is not straightforward. It comes with significant implications for both processes and workforce capabilities. Companies must consider how to upskill their teams to be AI-competent rather than merely SaaS-dependent.

Just as insourcing an external function requires strategic adjustments, adopting AI-first models will require careful planning, time, and reskilling efforts to ensure that people and processes are fully aligned with the new technology.

Moreover, AI-driven solutions offer the ability to automate many routine tasks, leading to increased operational efficiency and freeing up human resources for more strategic functions.

This shift will require employees to develop new skill sets, such as understanding AI workflows, data analysis, and managing AI-based decision-making tools. The transformation isn’t just about replacing software—it’s about reimagining how work gets done and how employees interact with technology in their day-to-day roles.

??What Does This Mean To You?

For business owners, this is a glimpse into a future where AI isn’t just an add-on to existing technology but a core component that can replace traditional systems. This shift has implications for cost management, operational efficiency, and how businesses fundamentally structure their technology stacks.

Imagine using AI agents for tasks like customer support, lead generation, or even employee onboarding—not only reducing reliance on multiple SaaS subscriptions but also customizing these interactions to a far greater extent. Klarna’s decision to adopt AI-first approaches signals that the era of AI-first services is fast approaching, where AI solutions become the go-to option, both in terms of cost and capability, compared to conventional SaaS.

Additionally, businesses will need to rethink their approach to workforce development. Just like when new software is rolled out, adopting AI requires equipping your teams with the skills to work effectively alongside these technologies. Reskilling and even cross-skilling employees will be essential to ensure no one is left behind, creating an AI-competent workforce capable of leveraging these tools effectively.

This transformation will not only impact day-to-day processes but also broader business strategies. Companies will need to foster a culture of continuous learning, where employees are encouraged to understand and adapt to AI-driven workflows. Upskilling in areas such as data literacy, AI ethics, and automation management will help prepare teams for a future where AI is at the center of business operations, enhancing both productivity and adaptability.

Looking Ahead At The Next 90 Days

The developments in AI over the past quarter demonstrate that we are at a pivotal point where artificial intelligence is not just evolving—it's becoming more ingrained in the tools we use every day, the decisions we make, and the strategies we employ for business growth.

From groundbreaking leaps towards AGI with O1 to mobile integrations by Google and Apple that make AI readily accessible, the AI landscape is becoming more dynamic and pervasive.

For L&D leaders and business owners, the challenge is to leverage these advancements to make learning and development more adaptive, to stay ahead of regulatory shifts, and to explore cost-effective AI-driven alternatives to traditional systems.

Now is the time to embrace these technologies, experiment with new learning formats like AI-generated podcasts, and be ready for the coming transformation in operational efficiency led by AI agents.

As we gear up for the last quarter of 2024, with the recent funding round of OpenAI , pushing its valuation to $157b and the impending US elections, the future is a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

But one thing is for sure, there's never a better time to tip your toes in AI.