Interest in generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools like GPT has increased a staggering 3,600% over the past year, according to the 2024 Technology Trends report released today by O’Reilly Media. This unprecedented growth signals a paradigm shift towards a new era of technology focused heavily on natural language processing and generative models.
The annual report analyzes usage data from O’Reilly’s online learning platform used by over 2.8 million technology professionals and developers. It revealed surging interest in topics like natural language processing (up 195%) and prompt engineering for fine-tuning AI systems. This indicates developers are focused on building on top of large language models like ChatGPT and leveraging their capabilities.
“This marks a rare and genuinely disruptive time for the industry, as generative AI promises important changes for businesses and individuals alike,” said Mike Loukides, Vice President of Emerging Tech Content at O’Reilly.
Alongside the explosive interest growth for generative AI, the report also found rising demand for skills in security. Network security engagement rose 5% and governance related learning saw 22% more usage. As AI technology continues advancing rapidly, upskilling in cybersecurity and responsible AI development will be essential.
“Efficiency gains from AI do not replace expertise,” Loukides noted. “Now more than ever, upskilling will become essential to prepare for new innovations in the coming year.”
Other key findings from the 2024 report include:
• Microsoft Power BI cementing dominance for data analytics, with a 36% increase in engagement.
• Growth in infrastructure languages like Rust (7.8% increase), signaling shifts towards new foundations for AI systems.
• Developers expanding their skillsets, with rising interest communication (23% increase), project management (13%), and professional development (22%).
With AI progressing at unprecedented rates, the technology landscape in 2024 will likely look very different from today. The surging interest in generative models points toward a future powered by intelligent systems capable of mimicking human creativity and language. However, the increasing demand for security, infrastructure, and soft skills underscores that human expertise will remain essential in this AI-driven world.
As Loukides summarized, “Now more than ever, upskilling will become essential to prepare for new innovations in the coming year.” Companies and developers alike must focus on training talent to responsibly build, manage, and safeguard the next generation of transformative technology.
