Gen Z Timeline

  • Oculus Rift

    While VR technology was not new, the Oculus Rift enabled consumers to access VR technology. The first units required a very powerful computer to run the software. However, Oculus units now have mobile processors and do not need computers.
  • Amazon Alexa

    Alexa is introduced by Amazon. It is a virtual assistant technology that can be connected to the user's Amazon account. It can also be connected to other software such as Spotify or Phillips Hue. This allows Alexa to support home automation.
  • Apple Watch

    The first Apple Watch is introduced. This turns out to be a best-selling device. There were previous wearables, but they had many limitations such as limited functionalities, short battery life, and awkward aesthetics. The Apple Watch brought smartwatches into the mainstream.
  • TikTok

    TikTok is introduced outside of China. This allows users to share short-form videos. It grew in popularity in 2020. Many social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are replicating the short-form video format popularized by TikTok.
  • Nintendo Switch

    The Nintendo Switch was introduced by the company Nintendo. This device focused on portability. It had roughly the same power as the Playstation 3 but it was running on a mobile processor! The Switch showed how far semiconductors have progressed for mobile units.