Artificial Intelligence Revitalizes CES Exhibition

2024-01-08

Artificial intelligence (AI) will be featured in more products at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, including home appliances, audio systems, cars, televisions, baby bottles, and beds.

The annual technology industry event, known as CES, has regained momentum after the pandemic, with AI being integrated into various devices ranging from bicycles to baby bottles.

The CES, which is officially opening in Las Vegas on Tuesday, is expected to attract approximately 130,000 visitors with over 3,500 exhibitors.

While the event has become a platform for startups, major brands such as Amazon, Google, Intel, Netflix, Samsung, Sony, and TikTok will also participate next week, organized by the Consumer Technology Association.

AI Everywhere

Analysts predict that AI will take center stage at this year's CES.

"I don't recommend anyone to create a drinking game during CES where you take a sip every time someone says AI because you'll be drunk before CES even starts," joked Avi Greengart, an analyst at Techsponential.

According to Greengart, AI models have made significant improvements since the last CES and are now being applied in meaningful ways for consumers.

"Undoubtedly, the technology ecosystem gathered in Las Vegas will focus on ubiquitous AI and generative AI within devices," said Thomas Husson, Chief Analyst at Forrester.

"The biggest theme will be how AI powers new invisible and immersive consumer experiences."

Innovations showcased at CES include Lumen's glasses designed for the blind, which the startup claims can inform wearers where it is safe to walk and even avoid puddles.

Meanwhile, Shift Robotics will allow people to try out their latest moonwalker shoes, enabling them to walk at running speed without sweating.

According to promotional materials from exhibitors, AI will appear in more products such as home appliances, audio systems, cars, televisions, baby bottles, and beds.

Rich Automotive Technology

LG and other brands will showcase impressive televisions, along with automotive innovations as cars and their built-in technologies take the spotlight.

"Cars have become mobile software platforms, or consumer electronics with wheels," said Greengart.

Chip manufacturers, including Intel, will showcase their latest semiconductors. Nvidia plans to give a special speech on consumer technology and robotics at CES on Monday.

Greengart expects health to be a major theme at CES, with sensors embedded in mirrors, wearable devices, and more for measuring vital signs.

Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of L'Oreal, will join the lineup of CES keynote speakers for the first time, alongside peers from Walmart, Qualcomm, and Siemens.

Evan Spiegel, co-founder and CEO of Snap, will participate in a panel discussion on brand loyalty.

Sustainable Progress?

With Meta's recent release of the Quest 3 virtual reality headset and Apple expected to launch its Vision Pro in early 2023, analysts predict that CES will feature many small companies showcasing devices to compete in the "spatial computing" and mixed reality markets.

Analysts say that sustainability commitments will be more meaningful at this year's CES as more companies adopt eco-friendly packaging, use recyclable materials, and rechargeable batteries.

"Some of the sustainability gains are starting to become real," said Greengart.