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The CES 2023 tech trade show wrapped up in Las Vegas after six exhausting days for me and a crowd of around 130,000 people. I walked a lot, seeking the coolest tech, and recorded around 80 press events, interviews, and sessions. Over six days, I walked 46.78 miles (105,407 steps), compared to 38.81 miles (87,447 steps) over five days last year. My feet and back are sore. I wrote 67 stories and moderated one panel. This article is about the coolest tech I saw in Las Vegas, featuring 19 products and projects, along with updates on products from previous years.
This year felt remarkable for new technology, spurred by refinements in old ideas and the rise of generative AI.
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Dean Takahashi has compiled a list to reduce your FOMO and highlight the best of CES. I hope you enjoy these ideas, whether they are concepts or finished products.
CES 2024 featured nearly 3,500 exhibitors, up from 3,000 in 2023, but down from 4,000 in-person exhibitors in 2020. Despite occasional warnings from security guards, I dragged my roller bag everywhere. Here are the highlights.
Supernal S-A2 eVTOL Air Taxi
Hyundai’s Supernal showcased its latest air taxi design at CES 2024 in Las Vegas. Air taxis and flying cars have been a CES staple, but Hyundai’s serious approach to development stood out. The S-A2 is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a second-generation design following the S-A1 unveiled in 2020.
The S-A2 can carry four passengers, cruise at 120 miles per hour, and has eight rotors for balanced vertical takeoff. The engines are quiet at 45 decibels during flight and 65 during takeoff or landing, akin to a dishwasher. The air taxi can go from zero to 60 mph during takeoff.
Supernal also displayed a VertiPort concept for potential locations in Los Angeles. The all-electric air taxi has a range of 25 to 40 miles, with trips taking just minutes instead of an hour by car. Neil Marshall, head of manufacturing and program management at Supernal, emphasized creating a complete mobility solution. Reservations will initially be required for air taxis, but eventually, flights will be available every 10 to 20 minutes.
Marshall showed the proposed control room for monitoring air taxi traffic, which needs to avoid commercial airspace. The air taxis will follow road routes for easy course maintenance. Supernal is in talks with the FAA and NASA to establish proper routes, considering other air traffic like drones. The goal is an air traffic control system independent of human controllers. Flights could start as early as 2028, but pricing is still unclear.
Clinatec Brain-Computer Interface
Clinatec showcased its research on brain-computer interfaces at CES 2024. The Grenoble, France-based biomedical research center, developed by CEA, Inserm, and Université Grenoble Alpes, aims to treat neurological diseases and restore motor functions for those with brain or spinal injuries.
Clinatec’s non-invasive brain implant sits on the brain’s surface, restoring electrical communication in damaged areas. The implant records neurological activity and mimics muscle movement signals. The system is bio-compatible, with electrodes sending signals out of the brain. Machine learning algorithms decode these signals in real time, enabling movements like walking or grasping.
The first patient received an implant over six years ago, with France supporting the research through grants. Clinatec plans to expand its work to stroke rehabilitation. The brain accepts the implant made from bio-compatible materials, reducing inflammation and fibrosis.
Dexcom’s Stelo Glucose Monitor
Dexcom introduced Stelo, a glucose monitor designed for Type 2 diabetes patients who don’t need insulin. Unlike the painful fingerstick meters, Stelo is a wearable device that sends data to your smartphone, with sensors lasting 15 days. It measures blood sugar levels, critical for diabetic patients.
Type 1 diabetes patients need frequent insulin injections, while Type 2 diabetes patients struggle with insulin production or processing. Accurate real-time blood sugar measurements are essential for managing diabetes. Stelo aims to be affordable for those with and without insurance coverage. It awaits FDA clearance and could launch later this year.
Nvidia and Convai Show AI Characters in a Ramen Shop
Nvidia and Convai demonstrated AI characters in a ramen shop. Jin, the shop owner, and Nova, a cybersecurity expert, are non-player characters (NPCs) capable of realistic conversations. Nvidia’s ACE technology powers them, converting voice to text, generating responses, and synchronizing lip movements in real time.
The demo showcased dynamic interactions, with NPCs performing complex tasks, engaging with the environment, and interacting with each other. Convai’s integration with Nvidia Avatar Cloud Engine (ACE) modules enhances character realism and responsiveness. Developers can customize NPC backstories and personalities through an intuitive playground or API, enabling unique and dynamic conversations.
Microsoft’s AI Copilot and New Windows Keyboard Key
Microsoft announced an AI easy button on Windows keyboards, marking the first significant change in three decades. The AI key integrates Microsoft’s Copilot, an AI companion for Windows 11. PCs with this feature will launch in late February and throughout spring, including on Microsoft’s Surface devices.
Intel and AMD are also introducing processors with neural processing units (NPUs), enabling faster and more secure on-device machine learning tasks. HP, Asus, Acer, Lenovo, and others will offer PCs with these features. AI on these machines will analyze emails and provide insights for upcoming meetings.
Transparent OLED TVs from Samsung and LG
OLED TVs took a leap forward with transparency at CES 2024. Samsung and LG both showcased transparent OLED TVs. Samsung’s micro-LED display technology offers brighter and clearer images with better transparency, allowing viewers to see through the TV. LG’s 77-inch 4K OLED TV features a retractable screen, creating an ambient display. Pricing is yet to be announced, but the clarity and quality of these TVs were impressive.
Celestron Origin Intelligent Home Observatory
Celestron introduced the Celstron Origin, an intelligent home observatory for both novice and seasoned astronomers. It features state-of-the-art RASA optics and AI-powered image processing, bringing celestial objects to users’ smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs in stunning color and detail. The observatory’s app provides educational audio presentations and allows for remote operation.
Withings BeamO Health Multiscope
Withings unveiled BeamO, a multiscope that performs four health checks in under a minute. Combining a thermometer, electrocardiogram, oximeter, and stethoscope, BeamO advances telemedicine by enabling comprehensive at-home health monitoring. The device will be available in the US following FDA clearance, priced at $250.
L’Oreal AirLight Pro Hair Dryer
L’Oréal introduced AirLight Pro, a sustainable hair dryer that adjusts to different hair types. Developed with Zuvi, the dryer uses infrared-light technology and high-speed wind, preserving hair moisture while consuming 31% less energy. AirLight Pro will be available in 2024 for under $400.
The Sphere
The Sphere, a technological marvel, was a constant presence at CES 2024. It features a 16K resolution video screen, haptic seats, and spatial audio, creating an immersive 4D experience. The 1.2 million LED lights on its exterior and the 160,000 square feet screen inside offer a mesmerizing visual environment.
Pivotal’s Helix Light eVTOL Aircraft
Pivotal showcased the Helix, a light eVTOL aircraft weighing 348 pounds. Classified as an ultralight aircraft, it requires no pilot’s license and costs $190,000. The electric aircraft has a 20-minute range and is designed for rural areas. It features simple controls, amphibious capability for emergencies, and a triple redundant flight control system.
Clicks Case: Physical Keyboard for Smartphones
Clicks Technology introduced a physical keyboard case for iPhones, reminiscent of BlackBerry keyboards. The Clicks keyboard/case works with Lightning or USB-C connectors and offers a tactile typing experience. Priced at $139, it will be available for pre-order on February 1.
Muscle Suit Every: Wearable Exoskeleton
The Muscle Suit Every from Japan’s Innophys is a wearable exoskeleton that lightens the load on your back. Weighing 8.3 pounds, it provides up to 25.5 kgf of auxiliary force, assisting with basic movements. The suit uses air pressure for strength and requires no electricity.
Doublepoint Gesture-Tech App
Finland’s Doublepoint Technologies launched a gesture-tech app for Android wearables. The app detects microgestures, like pinching, to control devices via Bluetooth. This technology offers a cost-effective alternative to camera-based gesture detection in VR headsets.
Razer’s Project Esther Gaming Chair Cushion
Razer introduced Project Esther, featuring Sensa HD Haptics technology in a gaming chair cushion. The cushion delivers haptic feedback during gameplay, enhancing the immersive experience. Project Esther is not yet available, but it demonstrates the potential of haptics in gaming.
Stern Pinball’s Jaws
Stern Pinball unveiled Jaws-themed pinball games, offering immersive gameplay with mechanical features inspired by the iconic film. Available in pro, premium, and limited edition models, the game transports players to Amity Island and features a motorized shark fin target.