What Cool Stuff is Showing up at CES 2013?
Every year, tech enthusiasts and future-focused consumers alike converge on Las Vegas for the Consumer Electronics Show. From the innovative to the downright wacky, it’s a platform to showcase the newest tech gadgets and get a preview of what electronics will be capable of in the years to come. CES 2013 offered an expansive collection of cool – from next generation TVs to connected homes and cars, the future of gaming, and more.
Televisions typically dominate CES. Last year brought a bevy of integrated 3D options, while this year heralds the next stage in high definition resolution. Current model high definition TVs are typically 1080p resolution. TVs showcased at this year’s CES are rolling out with 4K, i.e. “Ultra HD” resolution. This roughly translates to 4 times the high definition resolution of 1080p, making it possible to bring ultra clear picture to ever larger screens.
With no content currently available to take advantage of that concentrated resolution (heck, your eyes aren’t even capable of processing that level of detail), the technology isn’t something most of us will be running out to buy tomorrow, but in a few years it’s sure to be more mainstream.
Speaking of watching TV, Dish took advantage of CES to announce their partnership with Sling to allow customers with their Hopper DVR service to watch content anywhere, via any internet capable device. More impressive yet, they’ll offer iOS and Android apps to allow users to download recorded content onto their mobile devices to watch offline. This addresses the main limitation to those looking to catch up on their favorite shows while travelling or when out of area of a stable WiFi connection.
Smart homes and Smart cars were also a big hit at this year’s CES. AT&T announced plans to offer expanded home security automation. Their “Digital Doorman” is a touchscreen doorknob that opens with a PIN instead of a key. If the kids lock themselves out, you can open the door remotely over the internet. They’re also planning to offer motion sensor video cameras to be installed around the house, allowing you to keep tabs on your home when you’re away via your computer, smartphone, or mobile handheld device.
Car manufacturers are integrating more technology into the dash. The 2014 Chevy Impala will come with expanded “My Link” infotainment capability integrated into the dash. Access apps right from the touchscreen on your dash, so you can use your navigation or Pandora radio applications without having to pull out your Smartphone. The screen is fully customizable, letting you have your favorite apps, common numbers dialed or radio stations right on the home screen. Hands free calling and integrated navigation are also included.
GM and Ford both announced plans to offer app developers access to their software so they can develop apps to incorporate your car with your wireless technology. Expect future generation of these vehicles to offer more seamless integration with your smartphone (allowing in-dash access to contacts, calendars and reminders, for example), as well as custom apps to improve fuel economy, safe driving, and more.
In addition to these cool innovations, CES 2013 was dominated by next generation gaming. Stay tuned next week for a new handheld gaming platform, playing PC games on tablets and true game immersion via a virtual reality headset.
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