A show like CES crams in a lot of technology into a short time. After
taking in all of CES over four days, ET came away with these ideas:
concepts that promise to change how we use and perceive technology in
the near future
1# Fitness trackers
While existing players like Fitbit, Nike & Jawbone did not show
anything new, a number of new products were announced. Most track steps
and monitor sleep while a few can also track heart rate. We especially
liked Garmin's Vivofit that offers a battery life of 1 year. Razer's
Nabu, which has two displays and combines a smartwatch with fitness band
is also impressive. Other products to look out for include LG Lifeband
Touch, Sony Core and Epson Pulsense.
Smartwatches
Smartwatches
seems to be the new 'in thing' — we saw several of them from various
new players. Intel showed a prototype with location based notifications,
ZTE announced a smartwatch that connects with your phone to show
notifications. Neptune's Pine and Burg's Smartwatches work independently
of a smartphone and have their own SIM slots for calls and data
connectivity.
Among other launches, the SonoStar, Kreyos Meteor, Martian Notifier and smartwatches from Archos proved impressive.
2# Android will move into cars
Audi, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Google and Nvidia have formed the 'Open
Automotive Alliance' to develop connected cars. Nvidia showcased Tegra
powered car infotainment systems and they have been working with Google
for tablets and gaming products (Nvidia Shield). Audi demoed Mobile Audi
Smart Display — a 10.2-inch Android tablet for in-car use.
Hyundai
announced that the Genesis will be the first vehicle with Google Glass
integration. With major car makers joining tech firms with a common
goal, we expect Android in cars to be a big feature of 2014.
3# Web will invade everything
Pretty soon, all new TVs will have smart features and web-connected
interfaces. To make sure that owners of 'dumb' TVs don't feel left out,
some innovative products have been launched. Case in point is the InAir
Smart HDMI Adapter.
This tiny adapter plugs in between your
set-top box and TV (using the popular HDMI interface). It overlays a
display on top of your TV video feed and can show details regarding the
content you are watching or you could access your social network feeds
on the TV screen. The device can be controlled via a smartphone app.
4# TV technology will astound you
CES 2014 was a big platform for all TV makers to
launch their UHD (4K) and OLED TVs. Companies like Samsung, LG and
Panasonic announced an entire range of 4K & OLED TVs that will
launch over the year. The shift appears to be similar to what we saw
earlier — from SD (standard definition) to HD. Now 4K resolutions are
set to replace HD as the future. Another aspect that saw renewed
interest was smart TV interfaces. LG showcased the WebOS based
interface while Panasonic announced a new Life+ interface with face
detection and information personalised to the user. This means that the
next generation of televisions will not only be smarter but also much
more interactive.
5# Toys will advance
Some toys are incorporating an incredible amount of technology. We're
already fans of Parrot's AR. Drone — this year they've launched a palm
sized version called the MiniDrone. It has two wheels on the side that
protect it from bumps and enable wall climbing. Parrot also announced
Jumping Sumo — a two-wheeled bot that can jump three feet in the air.
Another
announcement was Sphero 2B — a cylindrical bot with customizsable
tyres. It can move at a speed of 14 feet/second and can scoot over rough
terrain without damage. All these toys are controlled by smartphones.
6# All devices will stay connected
In terms of connectivity, your smartphone, tablet, TV and even some
refrigerators can connect to the Internet for information and updates.
However, as the next step, we saw manufacturers aiming at making new
types of devices also connect to the Internet. Qualcomm took a step in
connectivity for automobiles by showcasing an Audi A3 with built in 4G
LTE connectivity (using Qualcomm's Gobi chipset). On the other
hand, Liquid Image announced the Ego LS HD action camcorder with built
in 4G LTE connectivity. The camcorder is capable of streaming live video
over a fast 4G data connection. Image:Liquid Image's EGO
LS ,8-megapixel camera iWiFi enabled with Bluetooth for remote control
use and audio capability and 4G LTE module.
7# Everything will be app controlled
The old adage 'there is an app for that' takes an all new meaning post
CES 2014. No longer are apps are just to be used with accessories and
toys. Thanks to a bunch of new app-controlled devices across categories,
your smartphone can now control your entire universe. For starters, you
can lock or unlock your home doors with smart locks that work with
smartphones from Okidokeys. NetatMo Thermostat lets you set a home
temperature from anywhere using your smartphone.
Belkin's WeMo
cooker lets your remotely cook food from your smartphone (with
notifications about how its coming along). Plus, we already have bulbs
from Philips that can change hues using apps. This year, a number of
other manufacturers also showcased similar app controllable bulbs.
Image:The crock-pot can be controlled remotely via a smartphone. The appliance should be available in March, a representative said.
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