Autonomous Machinery: Cultivating Innovation and Efficiency

Agricultural giants Kubota and Doosan Bobcat both introduced autonomous machinery, a significant leap in ag tech innovation. Hyundai showcased its AI-powered Concept X excavator as part of a larger vision called Xite Transformation, aimed at revolutionizing the construction industry with technology. Combining automation, AI, and electrification, these machines will digitally transform the way critical tasks are carried out.

Electric Vehicles: Charged Up for the Future of Transportation

Honda had a strong showing and received buzz for the world premiere of their 0 Series concept models, Saloon and Space-Hub, widely acclaimed as the sexiest EVs at CES. A favorite from Honda was the sleek, simple, ultra-compact electric scooter, Motocompacto. Kia unveiled its anticipated modular electric vehicle lineup, called the Platform Behind Vehicle (PBV). Kia PBVs are highly customizable, featuring interchangeable electric powertrains and vehicle tops. LG Innotek introduced a range of technologies for autonomous driving vehicles, including a software-defined (SDV) vehicle that incorporates a driver monitoring system (DMS) camera with the capabilities including emitting a loud warning if signs of drowsy driving, such as closed eyes, are detected. Adding to vehicle innovation, HL Mando, a Korean automobile company, debuted the world’s first autonomous car-parking robot called Parkie.

Wellness and Health Tech: Accessible and Impactful

There was a marked shift in the landscape of wellness and health tech, making impactful solutions more accessible. French tech innovator Withings unveiled the BeamO, a 4-in-1 “multiscope” resembling a Wii that is capable of measuring temperature, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels, and functioning as a stethoscope—all in one compact device. Ceragem’s MASTER Medical Bed features a modularized design equipped with a spinal thermal massager and compatibility with various medical devices, catering to individual user needs. CES also showcased several Smart Rings like the Evie by Movano, specifically designed for women’s health, encompassing menstrual, sleep, heart rate, and activity tracking, with an open design accommodating natural changes in women’s body sizes. Underscoring the intersection of beauty and technology, L’Oreal delivered the first-ever keynote from a beauty company. CEO Nicolas Hieronimus discussed sustainable, accessible, and inclusive tech innovations that are shaping the future of the beauty industry. 

Age Tech: Innovations for an Aging Population

With a historic high in the number of Americans turning 65, Age Tech was a prominent theme at CES 2024. Introduced by AARP last year, the AgeTech Collaborative connects startups, enterprises, investors, and industry experts to address the needs and challenges of the aging population. A few standout products that caught our eye include a stylish, high-tech hospital-like bed and a hand-stabilization glove. The Dawn House Bed, created by Ergomotion comes with customizable features like adjustable height, support rails, underbed lighting, voice command, remote control, and health monitoring capabilities, ensuring both comfort and health are prioritized. Gyrogear’s GyroGlove utilizes advanced gyroscopic stabilization to combat hand tremors, helping those struggling with diseases like Parkinson’s regain some independence and control.

Robots and AI: The Rise of Smart Companions

The proliferation of robots and AI demonstrated the versatility and growth of robotic technology. Robots are no longer confined to industrial spaces; they are our companions, our entertainment, and can complete most household tasks at this point. Notably, lawn-mowing robotics were all over, with several vendors showing their autonomous systems. Segway debuted the Navimow in the US for the first time. The robot lawnmower uses AI vision technology and GPS positioning to navigate around even the most tricky yard. Both Samsung and LG showcased robotic smart home managers capable of not only controlling all of your devices throughout your home but also recognizing and adjusting to changes detected in the people and pets who occupy the space. In another innovative use of AI, Swarovski Optik collaborated with Marc Newson to design AX VISIO, the world’s first AI-supported binoculars that utilize high-performance analog long-range optics and digital intelligence to detect and identify more than 9,000 birds and other wildlife at the touch of a button.

KeyShot Designer Night: Co-Hosted by Sprout

Another huge highlight of our time at CES was KeyShot Designer Night. Sprout was thrilled to co-host this year’s event with Luxion, gathering many of our friends, clients, and colleagues from across the design industry. We packed the venue and had a great time! It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces and meet many others. Shoutout to everyone who dropped by – you made our CES unforgettable!

The excitement from CES 2024 has set the stage for a busy year. Stay tuned for more innovation and inspiration as we head back to Vegas next month for the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS).