As we say goodbye to 2023, it is not just the excitement of new tech trends that captivates us but also saying goodbye to the technology that has shaped the digital landscape (for the good or bad).
In a tech graveyard full of discontinued products and services, we look back on the year's notable losses, from the demise of Google Glass to the retirement of Internet Explorer and the abrupt closure of Omegle.
Google Glass: A Second Farewell
In a rare case of déjà vu, Google Glass, the ambitious augmented reality (AR) headset, faced its second discontinuation in 2023.
CNET tells us that despite the initial hype and subsequent setback, Google could not resurrect the product, signaling the end of an era for AR enthusiasts.
This departure raises concerns about the viability of AR technology in the consumer market and the challenges that early adopters face in this evolving space.
Internet Explorer Bows Out After 27 Years
Microsoft said goodbye to its iconic Internet Explorer browser after 27 years. The once-popular browser succumbed to the superior performance and security features of competitors like Google Chrome.
Microsoft's next strategic shift is to push consumers to the revamped Edge browser. Reports tell us that Microsoft is actively removing Internet Explorer from millions of Windows computers worldwide.
Read Also: Environmental Concerns Arise with Microsoft's Plans to Discontinue Windows 10
Omegle's Sudden Goodbye
In a surprising turn of events, Omegle, a popular online chatting platform, abruptly closed its digital doors in November.
Omegle, known for connecting people worldwide, had become a source of entertainment for many. However, the platform has been criticized, with some calling it a haven for predators.
The abrupt closure has sparked discussion about online safety and platforms' roles in protecting users, particularly the most vulnerable demographics.
Nintendo's eShop Farewell for 3DS and Wii U
Nintendo discontinued the online eShops for its 3DS and Wii U consoles in March 2023. This move left users unable to access both paid and free gaming titles, underscoring the shift in focus towards the Nintendo Switch family of systems.
The announcement also introduced a fund merge service until March 2024, providing a window for users to consolidate their balances.
Apple's My Photo Stream
Apple quietly bid farewell to its My Photo Stream feature, officially shutting it down in August.
Users who cherished this service for storing precious memories needed backup storage for their photos.
Twitter's Name Change
Perhaps one of the biggest headlines is Twitter's name change. Twitter underwent a symbolic name change to "X" and a barrage of hard-pushed features. Despite new CEO Elon Musk's alterations to features, the platform lives on under a new moniker.
Microsoft also shut down AltspaceVR, its social VR platform, and Netflix shipped its final DVD.
2023 has been a year of tech goodbyes, with giants like Google, Microsoft, Nintendo, Apple, and Twitter making significant transitions. Did we miss something? Let us know.
Stay posted here at Tech Times.
Related Article: RIP Omegle: Popular Online Chat Website Shuts Down After 14 Years
