10 Breakthrough Technologies 2024

Heat pumps

Don’t let the name fool you. Heat pumps are electric appliances that can both cool and heat buildings, and wider adoption could substantially reduce emissions. Sales have increased around the world; in the US, they have surpassed gas furnaces for the first time. New types that run at higher temperatures could help decarbonize industry, too.

Why it matters

Twitter killers

Elon Musk bought the site now known as X in 2022, and virtually nothing about it has been the same since. He fired most of the staff and dispensed with content moderation, scaring off advertisers and users alike. Now, as alternatives like Bluesky, Threads, and others gain ground, the central town square has given way to private rooms.

Why it matters

poll

Vote for the
11th breakthrough

What’s missing from the list? Tell us what you think the 11th breakthrough should be. We’ll reveal the winner on April 15, 2024.

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