CES 2016: The Top Innovations from a Tech Spectacular Event

The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is one of the most anticipated tech events of the year, providing a glimpse into the futuristic gadgets and technologies that will soon become a part of our lives. In 2016, the 3600 participating companies showcased their products over 2.4 million square feet of exhibition space, making it a challenging task to identify the must-have products and innovations. In this article, we'll round up the cream of the crop from CES 2016, with a focus on products and innovations that you might actually see in stores this year.

1. HTC Vive Pre: Introducing Chaperone Technology

The virtual reality (VR) market has seen some controversies, with concerns about user safety and immersion. HTC addressed these issues with the launch of its Vive Pre, an advanced VR headset that comes with a complementary technology: Chaperone.

Chaperone Technology:

Utilizes front-facing cameras to display a virtual blueprint of the real world, preventing accidental collisions with physical objects. Can be activated by tapping a menu button, ensuring user ease of access.

The Chaperone feature makes HTCs Vive Pre more accessible and safer for home use. The VR helmet no longer requires users to take off their glasses for close-up interactions, enhancing comfort and usability. Pre-orders for the Vive Pre are set to open in late February, but the price has yet to be announced.

2. Samsung Family Hub Smart Fridge: A Comprehensive Smart Appliance

Samsung's Family Hub Smart Fridge is a game-changer in the world of smart home appliances. This innovative device has multiple features that make it a versatile and practical addition to any household.

Key Features:

Integrated Cameras: High-resolution cameras inside the fridge capture images of food compartments, allowing users to check inventory from anywhere. Direct Ordering: Users can place grocery orders directly through the touchscreen interface, eliminating the need to visit the store. Multifunctional Touchscreen: The large touchscreen serves as a platform for family notes, calendars, and photo displays, creating a shared family space.

The Family Hub Smart Fridge is priced at $5000, making it quite expensive. However, it offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance household efficiency. Nonetheless, concerns about security persist after an earlier smart fridge model was hacked by UK-based Pen Test Partners. Security should be a top consideration before purchasing.

3. Razer Blade Stealth Core: The Upgradeable Gaming Laptop

Razer, a gaming peripheral manufacturer, has developed a unique solution for gaming laptops: the Razer Blade Stealth and its Core addon box. This innovative setup combines the portability of a laptop with the power of a desktop gaming rig.

Key Features:

High-End Specifications: The Razer Blade Stealth boasts a 12.5-inch high-resolution touchscreen, Intel Core i7 6500U CPU, 8 GB RAM, Intel HD Graphics 520, and a 128 to 512 GB SSD. External Graphics Unit (GPU): The Core addon box serves as an external GPU, offering high-speed data transmission via Thunderbolt. Users can install AMD or Nvidia graphics cards and upgrade them later.

This setup allows users to enjoy powerful gaming experiences without the bulkiness of a desktop. The Razer Blade Stealth is available for pre-order, starting at $999 and going up to $1599, with shipping set to begin in late January. The Core unit's price and release date are yet to be announced.

4. Segway Robot: An Intelligent Mobility Solution

Intel and Segway collaborated to showcase the Segway Robot, a highly imaginative and versatile robot that bridges the gap between mobility devices and AI assistants. With its sleek design and interactive personality, this robot stands out in the tech landscape.

Key Features:

Depth-Sensing Cameras and Fisheye Tracking: These advanced cameras enable the robot to navigate autonomously without requiring user input. Internet Connectivity: The Segway Robot can be controlled via smartphone, making it easy to move it around. Camera and Voice Control: The device has its own camera and supports voice commands. Open Platform: The robot is built on an open platform, allowing developers to add functionalities like arms and attachments.

The Segway Robot represents a unique approach in AI robotics, offering a blend of mobility and personal assistance. While its exact release and pricing details are not yet available, this innovation sets a promising trend for future developments in the tech industry.