Our Favorite Reads for Tech Professionals

In 2024, technology continued to evolve at breakneck speed, and key influencers and authors played a significant role in shaping our understanding of its implications. From thought-provoking books to leaders driving change, this article highlights the individuals and ideas that captured the tech world’s attention.

Tech Influencers Who Inspired Us in 2024

Marques Brownlee

Renowned for his sharp insights and in-depth reviews, Marques Brownlee remains one of the most trusted voices in consumer tech. His focus on emerging gadgets, sustainable technology, and user experience has resonated with millions. Brownlee’s ability to explain complex topics in a relatable way keeps his audience engaged and informed.

Lisa Su

As the CEO of AMD, Lisa Su has redefined leadership in the semiconductor industry. In 2024, her ability to steer AMD’s innovations earned her the title of CEO of the Year. Su’s leadership is widely praised for fostering collaboration and delivering high-performing, energy-efficient chips that power modern devices. Her speeches often focus on resilience, innovation, and bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world applications.

Mustafa Suleyman

Now the CEO of Microsoft AI, Suleyman has redefined how conversational AI integrates into daily life. He describes conversational AI as the “next web browser,” highlighting its potential to redefine how humans interact with technology. Suleyman has led transformative projects, and his podcast appearances this year focused on ethical AI and practical applications, making him a thought leader in this evolving space.

Kirk Borne, Ph.D.

An influential voice in data science, AI, and IoT, Kirk Borne’s posts and talks provide actionable insights on leveraging big data for innovation. His expertise extends to simplifying AI for real-world use, making him a key figure in helping businesses adopt data-driven strategies effectively.

Books That Made Waves in 2024

"Too Much Fun" by Jesper Juul

This book dives into the cultural and technological impact of the Commodore 64 (C64) on the gaming industry. Juul unpacks how the C64 democratized game creation and inspired a generation of developers. Polygon describes it as “a deeply researched and surprisingly emotional tribute to a machine that shaped an industry.” This book answers questions like:

• How did the Commodore 64 influence gaming culture?
• What lessons can today’s developers learn from its success?

"Burn Book: A Tech Love Story" by Kara Swisher

In this anecdotal collection, journalist Kara Swisher recounts her experiences covering tech titans like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Described as part memoir, part exposé, it sheds light on the personalities and decisions shaping Silicon Valley. Swisher explores:

• How have major tech figures evolved over the past decade?
• What are the ethical dilemmas facing tech leaders today?

"The AI Mirror" by Shannon Vallor

Vallor’s book examines how AI is reshaping human power structures and offers a roadmap for ethically navigating this new landscape. Financial Times praised it as “an urgent and intelligent exploration of AI’s impact on humanity.” Key questions addressed include:

• How can we design AI systems that reflect human values?
• What are the ethical risks of unchecked machine intelligence?

"Dark Wire" by Joseph Cox

This gripping narrative uncovers the largest FBI sting operation ever, where agents used an encrypted app to monitor criminal activity. Financial Times called it “a cautionary tale about privacy and state power.” It prompts readers to ask:

• How much privacy are we willing to sacrifice for security?
• What role should accountability play in government surveillance?

"The Atomic Human" by Neil D. Lawrence

Lawrence bridges the gap between AI and human intelligence, advocating for a balanced understanding of machine capabilities. Critics hailed it as “a powerful reminder of why humans remain irreplaceable in the age of automation.” The book tackles:

• Where does human intelligence outperform AI?
• How can we create synergy between humans and machines?

"There Is No Ethan" by Anna Akbari

This investigative book chronicles the deception faced by three women targeted by a catfish, delving into the complexities of online relationships. Akbari sheds light on:

• Why do people fall prey to online deception?
• How can we better safeguard online interactions?

Why These Voices and Books Matter

These influencers and authors share a common thread: they’re not just observing the tech world—they’re shaping it. Whether through leadership, research, or storytelling, they challenge us to think critically about the future of technology. Their ideas resonate because they offer something more than just information—they provide a lens to understand the evolving relationship between humanity and innovation.

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