Written by Jillian Friesen
The Consumer Electronics Show held every year in Las Vegas came to a close Friday evening. The show is one of the largest shows in the tech industry. Every year the event draws crowds from around the world and highlights everything from high tech TV’s to robots. Rubbing elbows with celebrities, checking out all the new gadgets and getting a first peek at some otherworldly technologies are only a few of the perks. This year, attendees had the chance to mingle with the likes of 50 Cent, will.i.am. and yes, even Snooki. This year, the exhibition drew over 150,000 attendees.
Even with all the buzz around CES 2013 and the hope of seeing some new amazing products, the convention failed to live up to expecation of many who attended. Most of the products held on display were to be expected. Not surprisingly, Apple was absent from the show, however it was represented in smaller ways. Its clout outweighs its need to showcase devices.
Microsoft was the most noticable no-show. This year, the company was not even remotely visible. It is also the first time the head of Microsoft (former: Gates, now: Ballmer), did not present a key-note speech since the 1995 convention.
Mobile phones were all the buzz. Samsung stole the show with its Galaxy Note 2. High tech video recording devices, including stop motion and time lapse cameras also made a showing. Intel showcased its new microprocessor lines which are to be used in smartphones and laptops. LG awed audiences with its amazing 3D television display.
It is hard to boil down a list of what I found most interesting at CES 2013. However, here is my list of five innovations and gadgets I found to be deserving of more attention:
Ever dropped your phone in the sink or accidentally spilled coffee on your precious smart phone on the way to work? Well, you’re in luck. DryWired showed off its new nano coating technology this year. This invisible, oil and waterproof layer which took 16 years of research and development will ensure that any electronic device coated in it will be resistant to water damage and other forms of corrosion. The company hopes to ensure this process can be done during or after the manufacturing process. Click here to be taken to the website. Demonstration video provided.
DryWired demonstration Credit: Jillian Friesen
Dodge made a huge win with its new fleet Pursuit. You don’t want to be on the wrong side of the law when confronting one of these. This Charger comes fully equipped with a license plate scanner, infrared cameras, roof mounted solar panels, bullet proof doors and not to mention a 5.7L V8 Hemi.
Dodge Charger Pursuit Credit: Jillian Friesen
4K TV’s
Lg may have stolen the television stage with its enormous wall-covering 3D television display, but it was the new 4K televisions which drew serious attention. Despite not having all of the wonderful imaginative and entertainment capabilities of 3D television, 4K TV’s found themselves on the top spot because of their practicality. I think it’s just because you don’t have to carry around a pair of specialized and highly eccentric-looking 3D glasses just to prevent from going cross eyed. First it was high definition, then 3D, now it’s 4K’s turn. 8K and OLED also show promise of overtaking the markets in the future.
Sony 4K TV Credit: Jillian Friesen
Hyundai and Blue Link Technologies
Hyundai continued to break barriers when it comes to driver safely and convenience. This year highlighted its infotainment improvments and voice command technologies as well. Hyundai has been furthering the use of its Blue Link technologies in its vehicles which premierd on the 2011 model of its Sonata.
The automotive company announced its partnership with Google at this year’s CES. It will implement the use of Google Search on its navigation systems. Kia also announced its joining with Google. In its mock car display, Hyundai demonstrated its face scanning technologies and heads up displays from the console. The point is to allow the driver to receive several types of information safely while driving.
Hyundai Genesis w Blue Link Photo: Jillian Friesen
Hyundai Genesis Interior Photo: Jillian Friesen
Brain Controlled Devices
NeuroSky has continued to impress audiences with its brain waved controlled devices. Concentrating causes the devices to move, twist, turn or even fly. This technology has failed to gain much ground in the tech world, but the idea behind it is fantastic. There is a lot of potential for this kind of technology in not only the toy world, but the automotive and medical industries as well. Mattel and Roll 7 have already implemented some of NeuroSky’s innovations in their toys and games.
Puzzlebox Orbit: An interesting innovation developed by NeuroSky was seen being demonstrated on the floor. It’s bascially a helicopter enveloped in a metal cage in case it crashes. Brain activity sends signals to the helicopter which makes it ascend and fly around. Concentrating keeps it in the air. Click below for a video demonstration.
Credit: www.neurosky.com
Focus Pocus: another product contrived by NeuroSky was also showcased. Focus Pocus is a game intended for children and adults suffering from ADHD to help them better control their symptoms. The game is priced at $149.00. Click the image below to watch a clip from the game.
Credit: www.neurosky.com
Dancing Miniature Drones
My final favorite was an interesting demo of a group of miniature drones (helicopter-like) moving in sync with music. I managed to take the following very amateur video of the show.
Who wouldn’t want one of these?
It takes a few seconds before the music starts. While you wait you can see the drones hovering. Click on image to view video.
Video: Jillian Friesen
Okay, so that was six things I found most interesting. No extra charge for the bonus.
Sources
http://www.deaftechnews.com/2013/01/11/ces-2013-eyes-on-with-samsung-galaxy-note-2/
http://spectrum.ieee.org/geek-life/tools-toys/mind-over-matter
