The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 took place January 5-8 in Las Vegas, giving a glimpse into the latest tech innovations and trends that will shape the coming years. Several major themes emerged around artificial intelligence, sustainability, transportation and digital health.
AI and Robotics Continue Advancing
Artificial intelligence and robotics saw major advancements on display. Anthropic showcased “Claude” – an AI assistant trained to be helpful, harmless, and honest through a technique called constitutional AI (Freethink). Other AI innovations included AI-generated art, music and video technology by companies like Runway ML and Anthropic.
Companies also unveiled new robotics to improve quality of life. Samsung introduced Ballie, a tennis ball-sized robot that acts as a fitness assistant and home manager (Hindustan Times). Other robots shown included patio cleaners, elder care assistants, automated store clerks and Lunar Outpost’s mobile lunar rover prototype for future moon missions (Hypebeast).
| Product | Company | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Claude | Anthropic | AI assistant trained in constitutional AI |
| Ballie | Samsung | Spherical home robot assistant |
| Lunar Rover | Lunar Outpost | Rover for future moon exploration |
Sustainable Technology Takes Root
Sustainability was a key focus, with companies highlighting green materials, renewable energy and efficiency. Mercedes-Benz unveiled a new concept EV made with sustainable materials like mushroom leather and battery housings made of paper waste (Motor Trend). Solugen announced a new enzymatic process to create plant-based plastic 10 times faster than current methods (Green Matters). Other green technologies included air purifying plants, solar-powered backpacks, and biodegradable berry-based water bottles.
Automotive Tech Advances
Several automotive technology milestones were previewed. Mercedes-Benz revealed their Vision EQXX concept car delivering over 620 miles range through advances in aerodynamics, lightweight materials and battery technology (Domus Web). BMW showcased their i Vision Dee concept with an AI companion, AR windshield display and Phydigital interior blending physical controls with digital screens (Motor Trend).
Other transportation advances included air taxis and delivery drones. Vertical Aerospace previewed the VA-2X eVTOL aircraft planned to enter commercial operations in 2025 (Domus Web). Amazon also announced their next-gen delivery drone with longer range and inclement weather capability.
Digital Health Tools Emerge
Digital health saw promising innovation as well. Philips demonstrated the Philips Wearable Biosensor – a flexible patch tracking heart rate, respiration, skin temperature and body position to detect emerging health issues (Medium). Another interesting product was Upright Go 2 – a small device providing postural feedback to improve back health (Yahoo). Digital contact lenses were also featured, monitoring glucose levels or providing AR overlays.
Mental health support tools also emerged, like Lief’s smart patches releasing relaxants during moments of stress (Wallpaper). Overall, digital health tools seek to provide continuous care while reducing hospital visits. Adoption still faces barriers like privacy concerns and reimbursement constraints, but the innovations show promise.
Outlook: Tech Meets Basic Needs
While flashy innovations took the spotlight, much of the technology showcased aims to meet basic human needs like communication, mobility, health, sustenance, shelter and more (Liberty Global). As the lines blur between the digital and physical worlds, CES 2024 gave a small preview of how data and connectivity can enhance life’s essential experiences.
The long-term promise remains tempered by near-term headwinds as consumers face economic uncertainty. However, falling costs and steady improvements around sustainability, customization and intelligence point to an emerging tech landscape ready to transform everyday living.
To err is human, but AI does it too. Whilst factual data is used in the production of these articles, the content is written entirely by AI. Double check any facts you intend to rely on with another source.
