2017 introduced bezel-less smartphones, the Nintendo Switch, and more. However, it also killed off the iPod Nano, AOL Instant Messenger, and possibly, net neutrality.
The cycle of introducing innovative technology to replace the old is nothing new. Older devices and their inner working usually end up becoming costly to operate or slow. Upgraded products are intended to enhance a consumer's experience and to replace its predecessor.
The following products were considered as technological marvels of their time. Nevertheless, as the manufacturing and programming processes improve along the way, these were bound to end up in the scrap heap.
AOL Instant Messenger
During its time, the go-to program for an online chat was AOL Instant Messenger. As computer technology improved over the years, other instant messaging applications eclipsed the program. The number of users started to dwindle until it lost relevance.
Nowadays, users have several instant messaging apps to choose from. Facebook Messenger, Skype, Snapchat, Google Hangouts, and iMessage are just some of the popular options for everyone. AOL Instant Messenger finally bowed out on Dec. 15, 2017.
3D TVs
There was a time when almost all of the different TV brands flaunted their 3D capabilities. Salesmen would push their top-tier models and insist that it is 3D-ready with 3D glasses inclusive with the deal. Consumers can ideally select from stereoscopic or active shutter glasses depending on TV's supported technology.
These days, consumers appear to be more interested in specifications like display resolution, audio quality, wireless connectivity, HDR, and its dimensions. LG recently released a lineup of wallpaper TVs that take advantage of their foldable-display technology.
iPod Nano
Before Apple released their first smartphone, consumers relied on the company's iPod lineup for their portable music consumption. Just like the iPhone, their music players received several design changes.
When it was released, the iPod Nano was considered as one of the slimmest music player available. It was sold in different colors and storage capacities. A few months ago, the Cupertino firm announced that production has been stopped.
Surveys conducted by technology analysts have verified that users prefer to listen to music using their smartphones. Therefore, standalone digital music players are most likely on their way out.
Microsoft Kinect
When Microsoft introduced the Kinect, gamers everywhere were keen to try out the new motion-tracking accessory. The technology used by its sensors accurately tracked the player's movements and responded accordingly depending on the game.
The company insisted that it plans to support the Kinect sensor and even released a new model together with the Xbox One.
However, improvements and affordability of VR technology quickly overtook its popularity and Microsoft confirmed that it has stopped all production of the Kinect accessory.
Net Neutrality
As experts put it, the unregulated and free internet is about to be a thing of the past. This year, the FCC recently confirmed that the net neutrality rules established during Obama's time in office will be reversed.
According to the FCC, broadband internet services should be reclassified as a telecom service. It was previously argued by Obama's administration that it is an information service and should not be regulated by its service providers.
Depending on how ISPs choose to take action given the recent changes, consumers might collectively campaign against the regulators' decision.
