CES 2024 is buzzing in Las Vegas, and we’re here to bring you the most exciting news and innovations from the event. While major announcements are happening, some of the most entertaining surprises can be found in the quirky corners of the show floor. With companies fully embracing the AI frenzy, expect a range of unusual gadgets and claims. Here are the 14 most eccentric tech innovations and claims from CES 2024 so far.
AI-Powered Birdwatching Binoculars
For bird enthusiasts with deep pockets, Swarovski introduced the AX Visio 10×32: a luxurious pair of AI-powered binoculars priced at $4,799. These binoculars utilize AI to help users identify over 9,000 bird species quickly. Plus, they allow you to capture photos and videos of your sightings for sharing with fellow birdwatchers.
An App That Lets You Pay for Bathroom Access
Need to answer nature’s call and willing to pay? The web-based app Flush enables businesses to monetize their restrooms, allowing users to rent bathroom access. Its unique rating system, used by businesses to approve or deny reservations, highlights the app's origin in response to the sparse public restroom availability in the U.S.
A BlackBerry-Style Keyboard for iPhones
Yearning for the tactile feel of a physical keyboard on your iPhone? Clicks Technology revealed its creator keyboard at CES 2024, which acts as a phone case attachment and is designed to transform your device into a nostalgic BlackBerry for $139. While it may elongate your phone, it might just rekindle your love for tactile typing.
Dynamic Sound Mixing Based on Your Driving
Sound Drive, a startup led by musician Will.i.am, aims to sync your music choices with your driving experience. This innovative technology adjusts the music based on your speed, intelligently fading in and out vocals depending on whether you’re cruising on the freeway or stuck in traffic. We were pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness.
A Router That Resembles a Picture Frame
With the trend of blending technology with home aesthetics, the Marble Wi-Fi 6 OpenWrt Router from GL.iNet stands out. Resembling a small work of art, this router can be hung on the wall or placed on a desk, adding both style and functionality to your home.
A Smart Assistant That Can Call 911
At LG’s presentation, the company unveiled its Smart Home AI Agent, a “two-legged” robot designed to assist with LG appliances. It features generative AI that allows for conversational interactions, including reminders to take medication or even dialing 911 in emergencies, as demonstrated in an engaging promotional video.
A Voice-Controlled Bidet
Kohler showcased the PureWash E930 Bidet Seat, which integrates voice command functionality with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This hands-free bidet controls its spray, dryer features, and self-cleaning UV light with a simple voice command—just try not to let anyone catch you chatting with your toilet.
A Voice-Absorbing Mask for Privacy
Skyted’s "Mobility Privacy Mask" and "Hybrid Silent Mask" aim to protect your conversations from prying ears. Designed to absorb voice frequencies in noisy environments like planes and trains, these masks promise increased privacy for conversations, targeting use in offices, call centers, and even gaming settings.
An AI Stroller That Rocks Your Baby
Navigating parenthood is challenging, and GlüxKind seeks to ease the burden with its AI-powered stroller, Ella. This innovative stroller autonomously pushes, stops on inclines, and rocks your baby without any manual effort. It even features a built-in white noise machine to soothe your child.
A Brainstorming AI Companion
Among the more peculiar products showcased was the GPT edition of WeHead, an AI-enabled head designed to provide a physical interface for interacting with ChatGPT. This mannequin-like gadget aims to serve as a brainstorming partner, though its bizarre appearance raises more questions than it answers.
A Pocket-Sized AI Assistant
Need to order dinner? The rabbit r1 eliminates the hassle of navigating your phone. Instead of going through the motions of ordering pizza, this device uses a “language action model” to perform tasks requested by users, offering a promising alternative to conventional voice assistants.
Smart Mollusks Monitoring Water Quality
In an era where everything is “smart,” MolluSCAN has taken it a step further by equipping clams and oysters with sensors. These mollusks can now monitor their environment, revealing critical information about water quality and pollution levels through their natural feeding and reproduction behaviors.
A TV That Transforms into Artwork
Do you adore your TV but wish it could morph into an art piece? C SEED’s N1 folding TV features five MicroLED panels, transitioning from a massive 137-inch display to a sleek sculpture in just 90 seconds. Its Adaptive Gap Calibration provides a seamless viewing experience when fully extended, starting at an impressive $200,000.
A Realistic CPR Training Dummy
How realistic can medical training simulators get? Medical-X presented ADAM-X, a patient simulator engineered for various medical procedures, including CPR and IV insertion. With lifelike anatomical features and reactive feedback, it offers an immersive training experience. It even simulates bodily fluids like blood and urine for accurate practice.
A Smart Mirror that Assesses Your Mood
“Magic mirror, why am I feeling down?” Baracoda introduced BMind, touted as the world’s first AI-driven smart mirror for emotional wellness. This cutting-edge mirror analyzes your expressions and tone to gauge your mood, offering guided meditations and self-affirmations based on its assessments.
A Retro CNC Mill
While not overly strange, the Coast Runner CNC mill caught attention with its nostalgic design that channels 1990s aesthetics. This machine aims to democratize access to CNC technology, which automates tasks like cutting in manufacturing. Its retro flair is a refreshing break from the high-tech innovations that dominate CES.
CES 2024 has unveiled a myriad of innovations, from AI-driven gadgets to a unique folding TV, each pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology. Stay tuned for more thrilling revelations from this momentous tech event!