ISABEL RUBIO ARROYO | Tungsteno
What are the most innovative and impressive tech products on the planet? The answer is probably to be found at CES, the world's biggest consumer electronics show. Here, devices such as the VHS video recorder, DVD players, the first 3D printers and the most advanced robots in existence have been unveiled. We take a look at the innovations that grabbed the most attention at this year's event, which took place in Las Vegas at the beginning of January, and the tech trends that are set to gain momentum in 2024.
From flying taxis to ChatGPT cars
Back in 2022, much of the attention at CES was focused on a BMW car that could change colour at the touch of a button, while in 2023, everyone’s eyes were on a flying car with a retractable wing system. The aim was for the driver to be able to fold up the wings when driving on the road, and unfurl them when it was time to fly. Cars that promise to take to the skies were also unveiled at this latest event. One such example is the S-A2, a taxi capable of flying at 193 kilometres per hour, presented by Hyundai Motor Group's Advanced Air Mobility company. It is due to be launched in 2028.
Hyundai's electric flying taxi could take to the skies at nearly 200 kilometres per hour. Credit: CNET
Manufacturers also want passengers to be able to talk to their cars. Volkswagen has announced that it will include the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT in all its voice-assistant vehicles. BMW plans to partner with Amazon to integrate the Alexa voice assistant into its cars, and Mercedes-Benz is working with Azure OpenAI. The aim is for any passenger to be able to ask their vehicle all sorts of questions, such as where the nearest Chinese restaurant is or where to buy a phone charger.
Robots that follow you around the house and smile
All sorts of robots were on display in Las Vegas hotels and convention centres for CES, from dogs that kick their paws and move quickly towards you, to humanoid robots that look more like something out of science fiction. Among the most talked about this year were AI companion robots like Ballie. This is a yellow ball on wheels made by Samsung that can follow you around the house, analyse your posture with its camera, accompany you during exercise and control smart home devices.
Ballie is a home companion robot that can control lighting or other connected devices. Credit: Samsung
Another curious gadget is Magic Bay Robot, a conceptual accessory from Lenovo that is the size of a webcam and designed to sit on top of a computer. At the moment, its functions are very limited: it blinks, smiles and shows emotions when its eyes turn into stars. The company is considering adding more features, such as a speaker and microphone, so that it can also act as a voice assistant.
Pet robots were also in abundance at CES. One of the most eye-catching has been developed by Ogmen and uses artificial intelligence to try to calm a dog in distress distressed. The device, called ORo, allows owners to make video calls to their pet or give them treats or food. The tech event also featured a range of cooking robots, from those that can make tea or ramen noodles in a matter of seconds, to those that make cotton candy of different shapes and colours or use capsules to prepare ice cream.
Transparent televisions
At this unmissable event in the tech sector, you can get an idea of what the televisions of the future might look like. They may be wireless and magically stick to walls. Perhaps they will roll up or fold away when not in use to go unnoticed. Or, who knows, they might rotate to stand upright and consume content recorded with a mobile phone.
At this year’s CES, manufacturers have made a big push for transparent televisions. LG has launched the LG Signature OLED T, the first wireless TV with a transparent panel. The aim of this device, which should be available later this year, is that it can be placed in the centre of any room without being noticed. Meanwhile, Samsung has announced a fully transparent micro LED television.
LG has announced that the first transparent, wireless TV will go on sale in 2024. Credit: CNET
These are just some of the most innovative and curious tech products on the planet. Other innovations on the list include facial recognition light bulbs that promise to detect your emotional state and recommend lighting effects, plants that purify the air and lipsticks that diagnose medical conditions. One thing that is clear after visiting CES is that 2024 will be a year in which artificial intelligence will be stronger than ever. Among the inventions to watch out for are technologies that can help prevent school shootings, autonomously pilot a boat, design clothes or diagnose diseases.
These are just some of the most innovative and curious tech products on the planet. Other innovations on the list include facial recognition light bulbs that promise to detect your emotional state and recommend lighting effects, plants that purify the air and lipsticks that diagnose medical conditions. One thing that is clear after visiting CES is that 2024 will be a year in which artificial intelligence will be stronger than ever. Among the inventions to watch out for are technologies that can help prevent school shootings, autonomously pilot a boat, design clothes or diagnose diseases.
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Tungsteno is a journalism laboratory to scan the essence of innovation.
