It hasn't been just new projects that are making headlines: In November, even the Empire State Building got a makeover, when the owners installed a new LED light system whose millions of colors can ripple, cross-fade, strobe and burst in time to the tunes of Alicia Keys or a special New Year's show.

WSJ: On the Rise With High Rises

The number of pixels in televisions has increased fivefold in the last 10 years, VHS gave rise to the Blu-Ray, and computer monitors can display millions of vibrant colors.

WSJ: How E-Readers Change the Way We Read | Head Case by Jonah Lehrer

There's, you know, millions of different models to pick from, sizes, you know, engines, different colors, different looks, different styles, so you know, that's just the way it is now, you know.

NPR: Lower Costs in UAW Contract Seen as Key for GM