For those of us in tech, January is synonymous with one of the biggest and most energetic annual trade shows: CES.
Each year, leaders from the technology ecosystem across the globe gather in Las Vegas for the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) to explore the latest tech trends driving the innovation agenda. This event brings together various players—from established tech giants to innovative startups—showcasing emerging technologies that capture the imagination and spark discussions on the future of technology.
For Liberty Global, CES serves as a platform to connect with partners, gain insights into how the latest technologies are shaping consumer products and services, and evaluate how our fixed and mobile networks can support these advancements. It’s also an opportunity to explore ways we can leverage these new technologies to improve our service offerings.
Here are our five key takeaways for 2024.
AI is the Uber Technology Enabler
AI is rapidly transitioning from being a leading technology trend to becoming the quintessential enabler across various technologies and use case verticals. It has solidified its role as an innovation engine within the tech products and services landscape. A significant highlight at CES was the growing integration and adoption of Large Language Models (LLMs)—machine learning algorithms designed to understand and generate human language. These LLMs are crucial components of generative AI, embedded in devices ranging from AI-powered virtual assistants in vehicles to cloud-connected robots.
For example, Volkswagen aims to integrate ChatGPT into their vehicles’ voice assistant, and they’re not alone. Mercedes has upgraded its MBUX assistant, while both BMW and Hyundai showcased new AI-driven assistant services in their latest offerings. Furthermore, dedicated AI companions like the Rabbit R1 and the Moxie Robot are emerging, designed particularly for children. Even Samsung is stepping up the game with its companion robot, Ballie, significantly enhanced with features like built-in projectors and sensors for improved navigation.
Leading manufacturers like Samsung, Panasonic, Sharp, Hisense, and TCL also unveiled screens embedded with AI technology, indicating a broader trend in how AI is becoming integrated into everyday devices.
Smart Homes Advance to a World of Interconnectivity
The smart home ecosystem witnessed remarkable advancements at CES, with major providers like Amazon, Google, Aqara, and the startup Oliver IQ showcasing their latest innovations. A significant focus was on the progress made in adopting Matter, a global open-source standard designed to unify smart home connections. This groundbreaking standard allows devices from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly and securely.
Amazon proudly announced that its latest hub is now compatible with over 10,000 devices. Samsung, taking a step further, integrated its SmartThings functionality directly into its latest Smart TVs. This integration allows users to control lighting, adjust thermostats, and monitor security cameras—all from their Samsung displays, enhancing the user experience in unprecedented ways.
Immersive Technology: The Anticipation for Apple Vision Pro
Although the tech world eagerly anticipates the release of the Apple Vision Pro glasses, this year’s CES placed a spotlight on several Augmented Reality (AR) products. These featured new optics, impressive resolutions, and advanced capabilities like eye tracking and robust storage solutions. The XREAL Air 2 smart glasses, for instance, deliver spatial computing in a lightweight and affordable package.
In addition to the hardware, major content and platform providers—ranging from Sony in entertainment to Siemens in industry—are investing their efforts into developing these optical interfaces, which suggests a gradual path toward broader adoption. However, enthusiasm for AR technologies, reminiscent of the Metaverse hype, hasn’t fully returned, and the existing installed base of these products remains minimal.
Designing the Car of the Future
CES has increasingly become a platform for the automobile industry to unveil innovations, focusing on the driver’s experience as a top priority. A prime example is Afeela, a joint venture between Sony and Honda that emphasizes a user-centered experience within vehicles. Their prototype aims to merge advanced AI sensing technology with immersive entertainment through multiple displays scattered throughout the car.
Kia also made headlines, showcasing its electric van range designed to enter the commercial van sector by 2025. Charging technology was another area of innovation, featuring Autovoltek’s robot EV charger and the slow but steady progress of wireless charging solutions from companies like Witricity. Of course, CES wouldn’t be complete without a nod to flying cars, and Xpeng AeroHT’s eVTOL showcased a stylish yet practical design—but it remains a few years away from mainstream adoption.
Health Technology Expands its Horizons
Health devices have long been a staple at CES, but this year, the breadth of products and services announced was particularly striking. Innovations ranged from the Wi-Fi-enabled Zoe Fall device designed to assist the elderly to cutting-edge AI-powered mental health tools. The wearable tech landscape is evolving too, with offerings including rings, watches, earbuds, and stick-on pads, now complemented by biomechanical support solutions such as commercially available exoskeletons from German Robotic and WiRobotics.
AI and computer vision are paving the way for new professional wellness solutions. For instance, FaceHeart’s FDA-approved technology can monitor heart rates using a single video camera, while Blueskeye AI analyzes facial and vocal data to detect medically relevant emotions, potentially improving people’s quality of life across various environments. Even new parenthood is getting an AI twist, with companies unveiling tools that interpret babies’ cries using algorithms trained on extensive datasets from UK hospitals, illustrating the limitless possibilities AI presents.
That’s it from CES …
CES continues to be the cornerstone of innovation in the tech industry, signaling an exciting agenda for 2024 as we explore future possibilities. With its display of cutting-edge innovations and trends, CES not only captivates audiences but also provides a glimpse into the technological future awaiting us.