Alibaba's real-time translation device was one of the buzzworthy products at CES 2019 in the audio and video category. The device uses AI and machine translation to provide simultaneous translation between multiple languages when two or more people speaking different languages converse with each other. It aims to break down language barriers and help people communicate more effectively globally.
2. THE STORM REPORT @ CES 2019
CES® is the world's gathering place for all those who thrive on the business of consumer technologies
and it has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years —
the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace.
Each year, memBrain attends CES® to gather intelligence on hot new products and to identify emerging
trends and industries. This special edition of The STORM Report is a compilation of memBrain’s
observations from the CES® show floor combined with the most “buzzed about” products according to
leading industry publications, including the CES® 2019 Innovation Award winners.
For the past several years, memBrain has hosted a curated breakfast panel session featuring an
interactive discussion related to the year’s most buzzed about topics at CES. This year, memBrain
collaborated with the newly formed Wunderman Thompson to co-present our third annual breakfast
event. We welcomed ~200 guests from a wide range of industries with speakers from Intel, WPP,
Qualcomm and more answering the question “Are You Future Ready?”
2
4. INTRODUCTION
CES 2019 was slightly larger than last year, with more than 4,500 exhibitors sprawled across 2.7 million square feet.
However, now that the conference is over and we reflect on everything that we experienced and the key trends and
breakthroughs, it seems to be the consensus that CES 2019 was not a year for anything particularly “new.”
In fact, most of the trends that we identified as “hot” were simply building on announcements made at CES 2017
and/or 2018 - intelligent virtual assistants, 5G, and connected cars. Of course, there were some glimmers of things
to come in 2020 - namely, emerging opportunities thanks largely to 5G accessibility, human health and abilities
enhanced by technology, and even feel good robot friends to offer us comfort in troubling times. Vehicles were
probably the most exciting category at CES 2019, with many attendees and exhibitors noting that Vegas essentially
served as a preview for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Still, people love CES more than ever. At 33% positive mentions (according to Buzz Radar), 2019 had the highest
ever positive mentions - up a whopping 9% from 2017 and 4% from 2018. Included in this report are some of the
hottest trends that we spotted on the show floor and in our conversations with attendees and exhibitors. We have
also included an at-a-glance look at some of the most “buzz-worthy” products, and why we believe they are
worthy of your radar.
4
6. BECOMING BIONIC
SAMSUNG
GEMS
People talk about technology in terms of what we can do with it. But, what
about what it can do for us? How can it expand our physical limits? The
future of human ability was another major trend at CES 2019, and perhaps
one of the only notable trends that seemed to have grown over the past
year.
There is a strong belief in the bionics community that future human
mobility and developing medical devices will eventually come to a point
where the advanced products will be accepted by the end user as part of
their body, similar to the way the smart phone is accepted as an extension
of our hands, so-to-speak.
Just as Samsung is designing robots that provide health and wellness
support, the company has also invested in mobility and wearable
enhancements for the human body. The company’s GEMS series is
essentially an exoskeleton that an enhances human performance. The
GEMS-H (fitted to the hips) can boost your walking speed by 20 percent,
improve your balance by 19 percent and reduce your energy
expenditure by 23 percent, Samsung said.
More on this in 2020, but watch this space.
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7. BIG SMALL SCREENS
LG
CURVED OLED SCREEN
This was a huge year for TVs at CES with real innovation and leaps forward.
8K screens were everywhere from Samsung, LG (pictured here), Sony,
Panasonic, and others, proving that 8K will only continue to grow in 2019.
Home theaters will forever be revolutionized by high resolution screens
that can be assembled in any size or shape you desire. Of course,
Samsung continued to impress with it’s 219-inch “The Wall,” a Micro-LED
TV. It is a new type of TV technology that is emissive, like OLED, but unlike
OLED it uses only red, green, and blue LED pixels, so not only can it deliver
true black levels, but it is incredibly bright and colorful. It’s 4K, not 8K, but at
this size, you won’t be bothered. It looks amazing, and the contrast is off
the charts.
LG may have a rollable OLED TV to release this year, but it risked
overshadowing its own flagship with its incredible LG OLED Falls
installation at CES 2019 which was likely the most photographed product of
the show (pictured here) . LG’s OLED TV R (R for “rolled”) was still an
impressive introduction. Imagine your TV emerging from a long
rectangular box and when you’re done watching, it rolls right back down,
out of sight! This creates exciting new interior design opportunities and
also offers a more portable screening solution!
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8. THE 5G PROMISE
JOHN DEERE
5G AND THE FUTURE OF FARMING
Every generation of mobile network so far, including 4G, has been about
connecting people. And although 5G will likewise be designed to
connect people, it will also be about connecting things.
Last year we reported on how 5G network capabilities will allow for faster
service, less latency and enable more devices to be connected across the
globe. And while most reports place 5G becoming a reality in 2020, CES is
the only show where the entire 5G ecosystem can be showcased, and so it
was a major point of discussion..
Verizon summarized the benefits of 5G into “Eight Currencies” including
speed and throughput, mobility, connected devices and IoT, energy
efficiency and service deployment, and latency and reliability.
Interestingly, John Deere emerged as a prime candidate for 5G. Deere is
leading an “AgTech revolution” and connectivity is an important element
of its solution. Today, rural areas are dramatically underserved by 4G LTE.
5G fixes and mobile deployments utilizing Massive MIMO technology
should dramatically improve rural connectivity, showing that 5G will have
applications to businesses and industries that many haven’t event
considered..
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9. DRIVING FORWARD
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
LIVEWIRE ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE
Many people were overheard commenting on how CES has become the best
car show in the world. As in years before, CES 2019 demonstrated that the
car has become our most powerful and complex smart device, using
more data than any other device we own. Connectivity, autonomy, and
electrification reigned supreme with varying degrees of realism and
feasibility. And while full driving autonomy remains years away, CES 2019
confirmed that 2019 will be the year of in-car connectivity, from integrated
entertainment systems to safety solutions (like Qualcomm’s 9150 chipset).
Innovative new vehicle types emerged at CES 2019 like Bell’s full-scale
prototype of a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) air taxi. Hyundai also
debuted their Elevate Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV) which serves an
emergency EV that can hop five-foot walls and get over the most impassable
obstacles with ease, making it possible for first responders to get to people
in need easier and faster. It is a "four-legged first responder.”
And Harley-Davidson bet big on their first production electric motorcycle
(pictured here). Livewire, which does 110 miles on a single charge goes into
production this fall and will be available for pre-order for a whopping $29,799
for those seeking the latest from the legendary brand.
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10. DIGITAL BFFS
KIKI BY ZOETIC AI
Robots as personal companions - (or “Digital BFFs”) is another continuing
trend from 2018, with SoftBank’s Pepper (featured on the cover of this
section) returning once again to CES.
As shared in the Robotics & AI section of this report, one of the most exciting
products that we spotted was/is Lovot, a new companion robot from
Japanese startup Groove X. Groove X's founder, Kaname Hayashi, is known as
the "father of Pepper.” Lovot just wants to make people happy and give love.
Another companion robot at the show was an adorable pet called KiKi from
Zoetic AI, which has more feline features vs. last year’s Aibo (Sony).
Of course there were still plenty of service-oriented robots, with AI solving a
wide range of needs - from mobility and automation to a robot that will
deliver your beer and snacks to your chair for the big game (check out “Fresh
Geoffrey,” a robot butler).
AI is being embedded into more and more “vessels,” so look for more AI -
enhanced user experiences. And with the proliferation of these AI helpers,
look for voice to become the norm for interacting and engaging with your
devices.
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11. GAME ON!
ATARI
PONG COFFEE TABLE
Gaming has never been bigger, and the world’s tech companies are well aware
of gamers’ lust for the best hardware. While CES isn’t considered a gaming
convention, the convention has been one of the most prominent launchpads
for gaming tech for years - and CES 2019 was no exception.
This year marked the introduction of a number of impressive gaming laptops.
ASUS had perhaps the most exciting gaming laptops, with its ROG (Republic of
Gamers) series introducing the ASUS ROG Mothership. Featuring the uber-
powerful Intel Core i9 and latest-generation NVIDIA GeForce 20-series INSIDE
of the 17.3 inch Full HD screen. Placing these features in the screen, rather than
the keyboard, means more air can reach the components - making it highly
efficient for gaming. Other notable mentions were the Alienware Area-51m
which allows users to swap out the CPU and CPU at any time, along with a
desktop-quality processor; Razer’s Razer Blade Advanced which featured
powerful features and a stunning look; and the Acer Predator Triton 900, a 2-
in-1 featuring 4 distinct modes (laptop, easel, display, and reversed).
But it was the Atari Pong Coffee Table, and its newly launched sister products
the Atari Pong Arcade Table and Atari Pong Cocktail Table, that won our hearts
and imaginations. These gorgeously designed tables succeed in making the
classic game cool again, while also reminding us that gaming isn’t always just
about high resolution graphics and stories- but it is always about having fun.
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12. NOW SERVING APPLE
APPLE AT
CES 2019
Apple usually skips CES, but made its presence felt at CES through
partnerships with companies like Samsung and LG. Apple and Samsung
have been bitter rivals for about a decade, yet Samsung was one of the key
partnerships announced at CES 2019 for Apple - with Samsung TVs
equipped to offer support for iTunes movies and TV shows. Samsung
TVs will also support AirPlay 2, Apple’s upgraded Wi-Fi Audio streaming
technology.
While Samsung is the only TV maker to offer iTunes TV and videos on its
sets, other companies will let users stream content from their iPhones,
iPads and Macs to their televisions. LG, Vizio and Sony said that Apple’s
AirPlay 2 and HomeKit are coming to their televisions. For LG, its 2019 smart
TVs will feature the technology, as will TVs from Sony.
So why the change of heart? Apple’s services business has always been a
driver for the company and so it isn’t surprising that the company is making
certain aspects of its services available on more electronics. With the
announcement that the company is launching a new video-streaming
service, it would be limiting for the company to diminish the number of
possible users for the platform.
Perhaps the moral of the story is, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em?”
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14. CES® 2019 BUZZWORTHY PRODUCTS
2019 KEY CATEGORIES
AI and Robotics
Audio and Video
Computers
Digital Imaging
Display Products
Family Tech
Health & Wellness
Smart Home
Vehicles
VR/AR
Wearables
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The $398 billion dollar U.S. consumer technology industry is attracted to CES® as it is a showcase for more
than 4,500 exhibiting companies in 30+ categories. The world’s business leaders and pioneering thinkers
come to CES® to explore innovation and also to consider the potential for technology to shape our future.
Included in this report are the following key categories which we identified as most relevant and
noteworthy from CES® 2019:
15. AI AND ROBOTICS
BRAINCO, INC BRAINROBOTICS
WHAT IT IS
BrainCo, Inc.’s BrainRobotics prosthetic hand is
aimed to grant amputees the ability to control their
hands and further empower them to live life with
control. Using proprietary AI algorithms, BrainCo’s
prosthetic hand learns to understand each
amputee’s desired gestures, with the system
continually adapting and improving as the individual
uses it. MSRP: Target is to be under $5,000
WHY IT MATTERS
This process creates a more natural experience than
has ever been possible and makes the prosthetic an
innate extension of the user.
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16. AI AND ROBOTICS
GROOVE X LOVOT
WHAT IT IS
LOVOT is an adorable Japanese robot that is
designed for one purpose: to give you love. For those
concerned with privacy, Lovot can function without
being connected to the internet, though software
updates, data backup and app linkage will require an
internet connection.
MSRP: $5,300 (sold in pairs)
WHY IT MATTERS
Lovot was created to evoke feelings of happiness and
positive emotional response through the robot's look,
feel, sound, and behavior. It is another example of a
product that doesn’t solely rely on functionality, and
has a form factor that is friendly and welcoming.
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17. AI AND ROBOTICS
BELLROBOT MABOT
WHAT IT IS
Mabot by Bellrobot is a plug-in-play toy building kit that
provides children with modular components to create
robots with unique functions such as moving, sensing
their surroundings, and interacting with the environment.
Winner of the CES 2019 Innovation Award for Robotics
and Drones Mabots are built with a modular design that is
fully compatible with LEGO pieces allowing kids to create
and innovate to their heart’s content. MSRP: $199
WHY IT MATTERS
Perhaps one of the most important toy trends in decades
is the motivation of children to be active participants
rather than passive observers when they play.
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18. AI AND ROBOTICS
ROBOLINK ZÜMI ROBOCAR
WHAT IT IS
The Zümi RoboCar is a fun and accessible learning
tool for AI & Robotics enthusiasts, from beginners to
advanced users. Users gain skills and deep learning
in machine vision, basic robotics, Python, self-
driving car decision & ethics, and routing algorithms.
MSRP: $139 (on Kickstarter currently)
WHY IT MATTERS
Zümi's design is small, friendly, adorable, and
approachable, and takes the intimidation out of
learning robotics.
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19. AI AND ROBOTICS
SAMSUNG BOT CARE
WHAT IT IS
Bridging the gap between health & wellness and AI is
Samsung’s Bot Care which is designed to be a full-
service health monitoring robot. Sensors can detect
your breathing as you sleep to tell you how well you
rested. If you put a finger on the sensor, it can
calculate vitals like your heart rate. The machine can
remind you to take your medicine or even detect falls,
one of the major causes of death for seniors.
WHY IT MATTERS
Health care workers can remotely monitor settings
and see your vitals, as can your family members. And
the data syncs with the Samsung Health app, which
you can view on your Galaxy devices.
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20. AI AND ROBOTICS
UBTECH'S WALKER
WHAT IT IS
Ubtech's Walker was strolling around CES last year.
Back then, though, it was basically an iPad on legs.
This year it's a fully humanoid bipedal robot. Not only
that, it learned to recognize objects and even love.
Well, at least hug.
WHY IT MATTERS
The Walker is basically the robot butler we've all
dreamed of. And at some point in the future, it could
deliver you a can of Coke and a tube of Pringles while
you kick back and watch Netflix.
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21. AUDIO AND VIDEO
ALIBABA’S TRANSLATOR
WHAT IT IS
Developed by Alibaba’s Machine Intelligence
Technology Laboratory, this Translator During Video
Calls is a system for cross-border communication
that could be a real game-changer both for e-
commerce as well as business-to-business
communication.
WHY IT MATTERS
The world is shrinking thanks to communications
software like this. We anticipate seeing this kind of
tool as revolutionary for international business
communications and a more connected world.
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22. AUDIO AND VIDEO
CAMBRIDGE AUDIO ALVA TT
WHAT IT IS
Cambridge Audio's game changing Alva TT is the first
wireless record player to stream incredibly high-
resolution audio over Bluetooth through utilizing the
aptX HD standard.
MSRP: £1,500
WHY IT MATTERS
Wireless capability aside, this is a highly specified
turntable, and it's designed to appeal to the well-
heeled listener who wants a true set-and-forget
system.
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23. AUDIO AND VIDEO
DTS - IMAX ENHANCED
WHAT IT IS
IMAX and Xperi (the parent company behind DTS)
showcased IMAX Enhanced at CES 2019. A 4-fold
experience using proprietary post-production
techniques to digitally remaster video and audio, IMAX
Enhanced promises the ultimate home cinema
experience. Three companies are signed on to stream
IMAX Enhanced content: Tencent Video (China),
FandangoNOW (U.S.), and Rakuten TV (Europe).
Privilege 4K will begin streaming IMAX Enhanced
content to select Sony BRAVIA TVs later in 2019.
WHY IT MATTERS
While it isn’t the same as the big screen, seeing the
quality of an IMAX movie from the comfort of your living
room is worthy of some excitement!
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24. AUDIO AND VIDEO
HERCULES' DJ CONTROL INPULSE 300
WHAT IT IS
Hercules' DJ Control Inpulse 300 is the first of its
kind, a DJ tool and controller, providing intuitive
learning for up and coming DJs & music producers.
Features like 16 pads, 8 modes, and large jog wheels
make it competitive with pro DJ controllers.
MSRP: $199
WHY IT MATTERS
The Hercules’ DJ Control Inpulse 300’s features
make it easy to learn and master mixing and beat-
matching manually. Anticipated to be a game
changer for aspiring DJs who can’t afford pro DJ
controllers.
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25. AUDIO AND VIDEO
IHOME’S AQUIO SPEAKER BOTTLE
WHAT IT IS
iHome’s AQUIO (iBTB2) is a BPA-free, double wall
insulated, stainless steel bottle that combines hydration
and music. It stands at about 11.5 inches and is slender
with a steel ring near the lid. It has a strong, elastic
carrying loop that can be easily attached to, say, a river
tube with a carabiner. It’s designed in a modular way;
the speaker portion takes up the lower third of the bottle
and can be unscrewed to work on its own with or without
a small rubber and plastic base.
MSRP $59.99
WHY IT MATTERS
Consolidating the things in our life that are essential -
music and water - is a great new innovation for travelers
on the go.
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26. AUDIO AND VIDEO
LG SOUND BAR SL9YG
WHAT IT IS
The LG Sound Bar SL9YG is an upgrade for in-home
audio systems. It is made in collaboration with
Meridian Audio to support Dolby Atmos and Google
Assistant, so you can use voice activation to control
all the speakers at once as well as connect to and
control your smart home hub. It has a slim wall-
mountable design and superior sound quality.
WHY IT MATTERS
Offers a sleek, modern design option for those
seeking superior sound quality without bulky
speakers.
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27. AUDIO AND VIDEO
SONY WH-1000XM3 HEADPHONES
WHAT IT IS
Sony's newest addition to their 1000X, the WH-1000XM3
Headphones bring consumers the ultimate listening
experience by offering industry leading comfort,
upgraded noise cancellation performance, and sound
quality. Their noise-cancelling processor blocks out
background noise so you can fully enjoy your playlist,
and the Smart Listening feature adjusts noise-cancelling
levels based on your activity. Quickly charge these Sony
headphones in only 10 minutes to provide 30 hours of
battery life.
MSRP $349.99
WHY IT MATTERS
Active noise-cancelling for active lifestyles.
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28. AUDIO AND VIDEO
QOOBI ONE
WHAT IT IS
Both a design statement as well as a chance to step
into the audiophile world in style, Qoobi ONE uses the
greatest analogue technologies based on vacuum
tubes that emit bright and emotional sound via
Bluetooth to pre-amplify digital music files from any
device. It includes LED lights as well.
MSRP: $999 (estimated)
WHY IT MATTERS
Once again connecting aesthetics to the listing
experience - the promise is that the sound via the
tubes is warm, detailed and “downright emotional.”
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29. AUDIO AND VIDEO
VIZIO SMARTCAST 3.0
WHAT IT IS
The SmartCast 3.0 works with Google Home, Alexa,
and Siri. Vizio is one of the first to create a device that
can connect with more than one voice assistant.
VIZIO SmartCast Home users can now reposition
their favorite and most frequented apps on the home
screen.
WHY IT MATTERS
The SmartCast Input on a SmartCast TV or Display is
a gateway to new content and content providers as
well as built-in applications.
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30. COMPUTERS
ACER SWIFT 7
WHAT IT IS
The thinnest of ultra thin laptops, the Swift 7 achieves a
screen-to-body ratio of 92%. The monitor itself is a Full
HD 1,920 x 1,080-pixel panel with a 100% sRGB color
gamut. Acer claims the Swift 7's processor will enable
10 hours of battery life. And, when paired with the 16GB
of RAM and 512GB SSD, the Acer Swift 7 will deliver "top-
notch performance for web browsing" and "productivity
with presentations and spreadsheets”.
MSRP: $799
WHY IT MATTERS
Acer has substantially improved its thinnest and
lightest of thin-and-light PCs with an intriguing
combination of physical design and component
upgrades.
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31. COMPUTERS
HP SPECTRE 360
WHAT IT IS
HP's Spectre x360 convertible now has a sharper
look and an AMOLED display, something that's been
relatively rare in the laptop world. Its new design is
more modern, with sharply cut edges around the
case. It'll feature an eighth-generation Intel Core i7
CPU and your choice of NVIDIA or AMD graphics.
MSRP: $989
WHY IT MATTERS
It's a refinement on an already excellent 2-in-1, but
we’re mainly excited about finally having AMOLED as
a screen option.
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32. COMPUTERS
LG GRAM 17” ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT LAPTOP
WHAT IT IS
LG's Gram laptop weighs just 2.9 pounds despite that
huge display and features an 8th Generation Intel®
Core™ i7 processor. Other key features include:
- Windows 10 Home
- 17 Inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS Display
- 72Wh Lithium Battery (up to 19.5 hours)
- 16GB RAM & 512GB SSD
- Thunderbolt™ 3 Interface
MSRP: $1,699
WHY IT MATTERS
One of the key features is the high-capacity battery -
with this model operating on one charge for up to
19.5 hours!
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33. DIGITAL IMAGING
INSTA360 PRO 2
WHAT IT IS
The Insta360 Pro 2 is the first VR camera to bring
high-quality in-camera stabilization, known as
FlowState stabilization. The FarSight 360° long-range
monitoring system includes a transmitter and
receiver for monitoring your capture from up to one
mile away ground-to-ground, or two miles ground-
to-air. Wi-Fi preview is available at 30 fps up to 15'
without using FarSight.
MSRP: $5,000
WHAT IT IS
The CrystalView function converts 8K VR footage for
viewing on popular 4K VR headsets and standard
smartphones or monitors, expanding your potential
audience.
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34. DIGITAL IMAGING
LEICA BLK3D
WHAT IT IS
The Leica BLK3D provides photographers and
everyday people with the ability to capture easily
shareable 2D images embedded with accurate 3D
spatial data. The device features powerful edge
detection which provides consumers a point, click,
and tap-to-measure experience.
MSRP: $5,000 (estimated)
WHY IT MATTERS
The industry-first solution for real-time, in-picture 3D
measurement, this product allows you to create 2D
and 3D CAD models with just a few clicks of the
camera.
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35. DISPLAY PRODUCTS
LG’S CINEBEAM HU85LA
WHAT IT IS
LG isn't the first company bringing a 4K short-throw
projector to CES and it inevitably will not be the last.
LG’s HU85LA is a sleekly designed and luxurious
home theater laser projector with 4K resolution.
MSRP: $3,000
WHY IT MATTERS
It projects a stunning picture on practically any flat
surface, and its compact design makes it minimally
space-invasive.
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36. DISPLAY PRODUCTS
SAMSUNG’S THE WALL (75" MICROLED TV)
WHAT IT IS
Samsung gave us a pretty good idea with The Wall, a
75” MicroLED TV which is back and better than ever
this year. The individual MicroLEDs that make up
each pixel of the totally flat screen are closer to each
other, and the small seams we'd previously noticed
have disappeared.
MSRP: Could cost up to $100,000
WHY IT MATTERS
It changes the rules of what a 4K TV can look like
without compromising on picture quality at all.
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37. DISPLAY PRODUCTS
SAMSUNG’S 98-INCH Q900 QLED 8K TV
WHAT IT IS
Samsung's massive 98-inch Q900 QLED 8K TV has
Quantum Dots, Bixby AI and a giant pixel count.
Samsung's Bixby AI voice controller, working
alongside other services such as Google Assistant
and Amazon Alexa, will be able to control all manner
of menu and TV guide options on screen, including
jumping intelligently to whichever show you've been
bingeing from Amazon Prime Video.
MSRP: $50,000
WHY IT MATTERS
The screen will leverage the power of AI to upscale 4K
content (and lower) to pristine 8K resolution using
thousands of individual algorithms.
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38. DISPLAY PRODUCTS
SONY "SUPER LARGE" Z9G 8K TV
WHAT IT IS
We've seen 8K TVs at CES for years, but this is the
first time we've had to take them seriously, and
Sony's "super-large" screens were the most
impressive. It's not just their 33-million-pixel
resolution, either, as its dense full-array LED
backlighting system produced some of the best
dynamic range we've seen.
MSRP: $2,899
WHY IT MATTERS
Even if you're skeptical about the necessity of 8K, the
future is now, and it's beautiful.
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39. FAMILY TECH
AIRESONE JUNIOR
WHAT IT IS
Parents can track children’s health with the AirSone
Junior, an adorable kid-friendly device which
attaches to a child’s clothing and focuses on tracking
heart rate and breathing.
MSRP: $172 (Kickstarter)
WHY IT MATTERS
The AireSone can detect if the child starts wheezing
or having an asthma attack, making it ideal with
respiratory issues. Plus, it is super cute!
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40. FAMILY TECH
HARRY POTTER KANO CODING KIT
WHAT IT IS
The Harry Potter Kano Coding Kit is a build-it-
yourself wireless wand, and is the first ever Harry
Potter STEM product. The wand responds to your
movements and can play on a tablet or computer.
MSRP: $79.99
WHY IT MATTERS
Users can make magic and learn how to code with
step-by-step challenges simultaneously.
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41. FAMILY TECH
OWLET BAND
WHAT IT IS
The Owlet Band Wearable Technology provides
expectant mothers with health related information on
their unborn child. The Owlet Band is a soft, thin circle of
fabric that wraps around an expectant mother's
abdomen and lower back, and it has a small plastic
sensor front-and-center. The Owlet Band is designed to
fit pregnant women starting at 24 weeks (that's a little
over halfway through a standard pregnancy), and it
connects to an app that provides all of the actual
readings.
MSRP: $300 (estimated)
WHY IT MATTERS
This band alerts parents-to-be if the heartbeat or
movement of their baby is irregular or abnormal.
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42. FAMILY TECH
SPHERO SPECDRUMS
WHAT IT IS
By using the Sphero Specdrums, people of all ages
can use an app to assign different sounds, musical
notes, loops, or beats to each color on the pad. By
wearing the Bluetooth-enabled rings, you can play
music and produce songs from anywhere in a fun,
interactive way.
MSRP: $64.99
WHY IT MATTERS
These products teach users about music
composition as well as coding. Look for Sphero (and
likely others) to incorporate musical synesthesia into
future products.
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43. FAMILY TECH
WOOBOO
WHAT IT IS
The cute, furry Woobo is meant to be a real-life
version of a child's imaginary friend that can help set
tooth-brushing routines, answer complex questions
and play educational games. It's part of a new
cottage industry of sociable toys, which includes
robots like Cozmo and Sony's dog-like Aibo.
MSRP: $149.00
WHY IT MATTERS
Woobo doesn't glue kids to its screen because it
invites them to go find things in the home, help
parents cook dinner or play family games like
charades.
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44. HEALTH & WELLNESS
LEEO, INC. PING
WHAT IT IS
Ping provides the ability for the older generation to
stay connected and notified of mutual friends’ and
family's Environmental Presence and Activity
through this sensor enabled service to ensure safety
through independence. Designed with “mutuality” in
mind, the Leeo Ping service is basically an app that
lets you see the status of a selected group of family
and friends.
WHY IT MATTERS
A next generation Smart Alert, this product is
designed to save lives and connect families.
44
45. SMART HOME
LOREX WIRE-FREE HOME SECURITY SYSTEM
WHAT IT IS
The Lorex Wire-free Smart Home Security System
provides hands-free and wireless home security with
the connectivity to smart home devices like Alexa
and Google Home. Some features include 450ft
signal range, 65ft night vision range, and voice
control.
WHY IT MATTERS
Professional grade security camera for home or
business use.
45
46. HEALTH & WELLNESS
PHONAK AUDÉO MARVEL
WHAT IT IS
Phonak Audéo Marvel has introduced to the world a
hearing aid that supports stereo audio streaming
from Andriod and iOS devices, creating a
revolutionary experience for hearing aid wearers.
Includes local fitting, loss and damage coverage, and
a 45-day risk free trial.
MSRP: $1,399
WHY IT MATTERS
A first-class hearing aid solution offering a clear, rich
sound.
46
47. HEALTH & WELLNESS
STARKEY LIVIO™ AI HEARING AID
WHAT IT IS
Starkey’s Livio™ iPhone Connected Hearing Aid is
not just used for basic hearing capabilities, but also
its ability to track brain and body health. In addition
to tap control and language translation, the Livio also
features a user interface that can detect falls and
other advanced environmental occurrence.
WHY IT MATTERS
This AI powered hearing aid is redefining hearing
care. More than a hearing aid, this system points
towards the future of hearing aids as an integrated
health device, particularly for younger (more tech-
savvy) consumers seeking a more holistic solution.
47
48. HEALTH & WELLNESS
WIDEX EVOKE EC™
WHAT IT IS
Widex Energy Cell™ / WIDEX EVOKE EC™ is a battery-
free hearing aid, and is the first of its kind. It is also
the world's smallest commercial fuel cell. By
"refilling" it for a mere 20 seconds in the refill well,
you get a full 24 hours of functionality. The refill well
works by extracting any remaining methanol and
supplying the fuel cell with new methanol.
WHY IT MATTERS
This is particularly great for hearing-aid users who
are unable to take their aid out to charge it up for
hours. Users don't need to worry about batteries,
chargers or being near an outlet, they can power it up
any time anywhere in 20 seconds.
48
49. HEALTH & WELLNESS
WATERGEN GENNY
WHAT IT IS
Watergen Atmospheric Water Generator (GENNY) is a
water generator that draws in air and converts it to
purified, safe drinking water. It is also safe to use in
high-pollution environments. In fact, it makes the air
in those areas better through its sophisticated air-
filtration process, actually venting clean air back into
the immediate surroundings. Great for home or
office use.
WHY IT MATTERS
Not having access to clean water is a huge
humanitarian crisis - and this device can generate up
to 25 Liters of water per day and only requires a
simple plug-in. It’s a game changer.
49
50. SMART HOME
CAREOS ARTEMIS
WHAT IT IS
Artemis is the only smart mirror integrated with the
patent-pending CareOS platform that connects
health, beauty and wellness for a holistic view of
each user. More than 50 IoT devices, products and
services are integrated into the CareOS platform
including major brands such as Coty’s Wella
Professionals, Group SEB, Legrand, Roca, and IoT
leaders like Snips and Terraillon.
WHY IT MATTERS
Now, the connected bathroom expands to the hotel,
salon or assisted home of the future.
50
51. SMART HOME
CAVALIER AIR SMART HOME SPEAKER
WHAT IT IS
The Cavalier Air is a Smart Home Speaker System
that can connect via Bluetooth or WiFi, and has built-
in Alexa Voice Control. It features wireless charging
and speakerphone, and has a luxurious, modern
design. This is not a portable speaker and is instead
meant to sit in your home, someplace like your
nightstand.
WHY IT MATTERS
Electronics designed with the user's lifestyle and use
occasion in mind, particularly those matching form
with multi-use functionality, are poised for success
in a crowded marketplace.
51
52. SMART HOME
HEATWORKS TETRA COUNTERTOP DISHWASHER
WHAT IT IS
Heatworks just upped the dishwashing game with its
Tetra Countertop Dishwasher. It is WIFI connected,
uses only one gallon of water and cleans your
kitchenwares with its own water and no plumbing
required. Tetra conserves up to 80% of water and
energy vs. traditional dishwashers.
WHY IT MATTERS
The majority of dishwashers available on the market
right now are not designed for how we actually live.
They are too big, take too long and consume
significant energy and water. Tetra has been dubbed
one of the most game-changing appliances for
kitchens small or large and a dream come true for
apartment dwellers.
52
53. SMART HOME
KITCHENAID COOK PROCESSOR CONNECT
WHAT IT IS
KitchenAid's new Cook Processor Connect matches
KitchenAid's unrivaled food processor technology
with connectivity to step-by-step recipes, meal
inspirations, how-tos in the kitchen.
WHY IT MATTERS
Perfect for lovers of cooking and beginner cooks as
well as seasoned chefs looking to draw new
inspiration.
53
54. SMART HOME
KOHLER SENSATE KITCHEN FAUCET
WHAT IT IS
The Sensate Kitchen Faucet with KOHLER Konnect
dispenses water in measured amounts through
either voice activation or motion-based interaction.
It also features an alert system that detects unusual
usage. The primary feature is the ability to dispense
water on command, even in specific amounts ("Alexa,
pour me 8oz of water"). This might seem a little lazy
when quenching thirst, but for recipes etc., it's more
practical.
WHY IT MATTERS
The Sensate line will be able to monitor your water
usage and includes hands-free controls.
54
55. SMART HOME
SCALYS BV TRUSTBOX IOT SAFETY ROUTER
WHAT IT IS
With the use of military-grade security, the TrustBox
can ease the minds of people in their homes with this
high-grade secure router & IoT for safe and trusted
communication with their connected devices.
TrustBox is a good moveable machine for securing
edge hardware or gadgets which might be moved to
new areas.
WHY IT MATTERS
The proliferation of IoT gadgets has led to a safety
nightmare that the TrustBox is designed to defeat.
This small router/IoT gateway is built for securing IoT
gadgets.
55
56. SMART HOME
SNIPS
WHAT IT IS
Snips is an end-to-end embedded voice AI for
connected devices that runs locally and offline. It
offers OEMs production-grade natural language and
simple voice command solutions without sacrificing
brand identity, performance or user data.
WHY IT MATTERS
Consumers can now build custom voice assistants to
their connected products like coffee machines, air
conditioning units, and more. Snips runs fully on
device so it is private by design, in other words, data
is not sent to the cloud.
56
57. VEHICLES
AUDI XR
WHAT IT IS
Audi's Audio Virtual Reality Experience (also referred to
as Audi XR), is in partnership with Disney and Marvel
Studios. The idea is to entertain the kids (or the adults)
in the backseat while the driver is focused on driving.
The entire concept of a car will evolve to be more and
more autonomous, becoming larger, wider, taller
eventually, something that is meant purely for transport
with AI that watches for traffic problems, handles all of
the steering, communicates with other cars, and does all
of the hard work as we watch a movie and relax.
WHY IT MATTERS
This partnership ushers in a new age of entertainment
leveraging virtual reality while simultaneously taking in-
car entertainment to the next level.
57
58. VEHICLES
BELL NEXUS AIR TAXI
WHAT IT IS
Bell Helicopter and Uber have teamed up to create
the next innovation in air transport, the Bell Nexus
urban air taxi. The Bell Nexus will be ideal for ride-
sharing, and will be fully equipped with WiFi, video
calling, AI, and wireless charging. Set to launch in
2023, Bell has been the first to publicly exhibit a full-
scale model, after several other partners (Karen’s
Butterfly, Embraer’s DreamMaker, and a bat-wing
design from Pipistrel) put forward images at Uber’s
Elevate Summit last year.
WHY IT MATTERS
Uber Air, a part of the Uber Elevate program, is aiming
to reduce individual car ownership and change the
way people travel in urban areas.
58
59. VEHICLES
BMW X7
WHAT IT IS
For CES 2019, BMW set up a track with a huge hill, ramps,
and other ways to simulate what it would be like to drive
the $73,900 SUV in an off-road situation, showcasing the
company’s superior focus on the user experience and
interface. The off-roading interface for the X7 featured
an AI bot in the car that is constantly analyzing the road
in front of you, looking for the gradient of the road and
any impediments. MSRP: $73,900
WHY IT MATTERS
A strong potentially autonomous solution, the vehicle
may someday have the ability to steer out of troubling
situations. Also, if a BMW X7 is connected to other X7
vehicles, the data on vehicle tilt could transmit to other
drivers, giving new meaning to “Connected Car.”
59
60. VEHICLES
BYTON M-BYTE CONCEPT CAR
WHAT IT IS
A Tesla competitor, Byton M-Byte has a massive 49"
display (a screen as big as 7 iPads), face recognition,
biometric metering, gesture control, and more. Its
first car, simply known as the Byton Concept for now,
is a crossover SUV which sits low and wide with large
22-inch wheels, giving it a powerful stance even
without the usual height of a sports utility vehicle.
The firm says the car will be available towards the
end of 2019 for an "entry-level premium" price tag.
WHY IT MATTERS
Founded by executives from Tesla, BMW, and Nissan,
Byton secured $500M in funding to bring their
electronic vehicles to market and has several
Chinese investors including Tencent Holdings.
60
61. VEHICLES
DAIMLER AG CASCADIA CLASS 8 TRUCK
WHAT IT IS
An electric semi-truck, the new Cascadia Class 8 is
the first large semi-truck to have Level 2 driver's
assistance features like adaptive cruise control and
lane-keep assist. It offers the features you've come
to expect in passenger cars. The semi also has right-
side blind-spot radar and automatic braking (when it
detects a pedestrian).
WHY IT MATTERS
All of this is not only for the driver's safety, but also to
protect people biking and walking around these
80,000-pound delivery vehicles.
61
62. VEHICLES
HYUNDAI ELEVATE UMV
WHAT IT IS
Hyundai’s Elevate Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV) is
an emergency EV that can hop five-foot walls and get
over the most impassable obstacles with ease,
making it possible for first responders to get to
people in need easier and faster. It is a "four-legged
first responder".
WHY IT MATTERS
The Elevate can be deployed in a variety of
emergency situations, from earthquakes and
hurricanes to avalanches and tsunamis, simply by
swapping the cabin out from the underlying vehicle
62
63. VEHICLES
INNOVIZONE LIDAR LASER DETECTION SYSTEM
WHAT IT IS
Innoviz Technologies is a leading provider of cutting-
edge LiDAR remote sensing solutions to enable the
mass commercialization of Autonomous Vehicles. Its
features include a large field of view and high-resolution
3D video, a detection range of up to 250 meters, and
environmental resistance.
WHY IT MATTERS
The InnovizOne LiDAR laser detection system combined
with its Computer Vision Software enables drivers to
obtain real-time and actionable driving information with
inexpensive 3D vision software. It is a comprehensive
mass market solution.
63
64. VEHICLES
MERCEDES-BENZ VISION URBANETIC
WHAT IT IS
Mercedes’ autonomous concept vehicle features
interchangeable modules that can haul people or
cargo. Mercedes noted that this vehicle is simply a
study in electric, autonomous transportation
solutions and that it has no plans to bring the
Urbanetic to market.
WHY IT MATTERS
The idea of using interchangeable modules on an
autonomous platform is an intriguing way to get
maximum efficiency out of one vehicle.
64
65. VEHICLES
MERCEDES-BENZ 4-DOOR CLA COUPE
WHAT IT IS
The 4-door CLA Coupe has a new version of MBUX
(Mercedes' voice-centric infotainment system), a
gesture-based interface and a new "energizing coach"
that monitors the driver’s pulse and aims to relax them
via the car's mood feature. A complex gesture control
function has also been added. As a hand nears the
touchscreen, the system brings up a list of preferred
functions.
WHY IT MATTERS
The CLA Coupe has been an important part of Mercedes’
line-up helping it get more customers into its brand -the
appealing design and lower price-point attracts younger
buyers than the usual Mercedes customer.
65
66. VEHICLES
SCOSCHE BTFREQ
WHAT IT IS
The Scosche BTFreq is a multi-use charger with Alexa
voice activation capability. It is also compatible with
Bluetooth and enables hands-free calling as well as
music streaming. Features the ability to charge two
devices at once. Users can also connect the BTFREQ to
their car via Bluetooth or Aux-in cable, which grants
access to Amazon Alexa.
WHY IT MATTERS
With the BTFREQ and Amazon Alexa, users can have
Alexa play music, get the news, check the weather, and
much more. BTFREQ is constantly getting smarter as it
gets new capabilities delivered automatically. BTFREQ
can be paired to a smartphone to work with Apple's Siri
or Google Voice as well.
66
67. VEHICLES
TOPOSENS TS ALPHA
WHAT IT IS
The Toposens TS ALPHA is the first of its kind in that
it is a sensor that maps your surroundings using 3D
ultrasound.
WHY IT MATTERS
It is power-efficient, weather-resistant, incredibly
compact, and versatile for vehicular and home use.
67
68. VEHICLES
VALEO XTRAVUE
WHAT IT IS
XtraVue utilizes a vehicles built-in camera tech to
essentially see through whatever is being towed
behind it. Valeo’s XtraVue collects surrounding images
to build a complete picture of what the space behind
the vehicle looks like without anything being towed
behind it. It makes rear cargo invisible, making
reversing and driving with towed cargo easier and
much safer.
WHY IT MATTERS
The 2018 version relied on video feeds from other
connected vehicles and roadside infrastructure, which
means any production version of this system would
need a pretty well fleshed out environment. This latest
version only requires the hardware installed on the
vehicle and its trailer. 68
69. VR/AR
AUDI HOLORIDE
WHAT IT IS
Holoride technology turns your everyday commute
into a location-based theme park complete with
haptic feedback delivered by the car itself. In
partnership with Disney, Audi debuted Holoride, a
prototype interactive entertainment system that
utilizes VR technology to turn the backseat of any
vehicle into an ever-changing immersive experience.
WHY IT MATTERS
Holoride will eventually release as an open platform
in the hopes of encouraging developers to introduce
their own elastic content: not just in Audi vehicles,
but other major brands as well. This is a new and
unexpected application for VR technology.
69
70. VR/AR
CYBERSHOES
WHAT IT IS
After a successful crowdfunding campaign, Cybershoes
launched the world’s first Virtual Reality shoe - a VR
accessory that is worn on your feet and allows you to
literally walk and run through virtual reality. The
Cybershoes connect over Bluetooth to a small box that
plugs into your computer; on it is a dial to calibrate the
shoes to your step-length. The peripheral is natively
integrated with SteamVR and should work with games
that enable mobility.
WHY IT MATTERS
VR has had and continues to have a locomotion problem:
move the player too unnaturally, and they might get
queasy. Cybershoes are an ingenious solution to the
problem - and slide on your feet like a ski boot.
70
71. VR/AR
TESLASUIT
WHAT IT IS
The Teslasuit is the stuff of science fiction, but it’s
real. The Teslasuit has an advanced haptic feedback
system. In addition, the suit has climate control and
biometric features as well as a full-motion capture
suite.
WHY IT MATTERS
Although the suit will likely be cost prohibitive at first,
it will have strong appeal for both developers and
consumers, taking gaming to the next level.
71
72. VR/AR
HTC VIVE COSMOS HEADSET
WHAT IT IS
The Vive Cosmos is HTC’s bid at a relatively mainstream
VR headset featuring striking graphics, lifelike sound, and
immersive experiences with a focus on comfort and easy
of use. The Cosmos doesn’t require external sensors and
uses fully tracked motion controllers. Developer kits are
anticipated in early 2019 with a launch likely at the end of
the year. A price has not yet been announced.
WHY IT MATTERS
The Vive Cosmos fills a niche between the set-up
intensive and more costly Vive and the entry-level Vive
Focus. HTC noted that it will also have the capability to be
powered by more than a traditional gaming PC, which
many have speculated could include a smartphone.
72
73. VR/AR
NORDICTRACK VR BIKE
WHAT IT IS
The NordicTrack VR Bike is a stationary bike that
includes a sterile yoke as well as standard controller
input buttons, a directional pad with triggers, and a
svelte new look to top it all off. It also comes packed
with a Vive Focus as well as a selection of special
workouts to get users excited about working out. It
supports Bluetooth audio, connects to the iFit fitness
platform, and has varying levels of resistance when
biking.
MSRP: $2,000
WHY IT MATTERS
A smart, practical solution for making workouts more
fun.
73
74. WEARABLES
DOPPEL
WHAT IT IS
Worn on the inside of the wrist, the Doppel pulses in
rhythms intended to simulate a heartbeat. It works
by creating a silent vibration on the inside of your
wrist which feels just like the ‘lub-dub’ of a
heartbeat. The wearer can adjust the speed
depending on whether he or she wants to calm down
or get energized. Doppel has been tested and shown
to both reduce stress and increase focus.
MSRP: $209
WHY IT MATTERS
Unlike the Apple Watch, this will pair with Android as
well as iOS phones. It is cheaper than the Apple
Watch as well.
74
75. WEARABLES
KATE SPADE SCALLOP 2 SMARTWATCH
WHAT IT IS
The Kate Spade Scallop 2 Smartwatch is specifically
designed for women (or for small wrists). New
features include:
-GPS
-Heart rate monitoring
-NFC chip for Google Pay duties
-WearOS latest tech, with Google Assistant access
-3ATM water resistance rating (works for swimming)
WHY IT MATTERS
This design is unlike any other smartwatch available.
It has been upgraded from the original Scallop by
new features and technology added by Fossil, its
parent company.
75
76. WEARABLES
MOBVOI TICWATCH E2 & S2
WHAT IT IS
Mobvoi’s TicWatch E2 & S2 are fitness trackers that
offer some unique features, including waterproofing
up to 50 meters for some swimming tracking. They
both have the same specs inside (featuring the
Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2100 chipset), and
they're both available in a black polycarbonate finish.
Both come with built-in GPS, an optical heart rate
sensor and water resistance. MSRP:
E2 - approx $159.99
S2 - approx $199.99
WHY IT MATTERS
Good, affordable smart watch/fitness companions
with some useful features.
76
77. WEARABLES
WITHINGS MOVE ECG SMARTWATCH
WHAT IT IS
The Withings Move ECG Smartwatch comes with an
integrated electrocardiogram monitor for spotting an
irregular heartbeat.
WHY IT MATTERS
The ECG monitor takes a reading, and during the
measurement, your ECG signal appears instantly in
the Health Mate app. Then, the app alerts you if you
need to consult your specialist and your ECG records
can be easily sent to your doctor. This is especially
helpful for people with AFib.
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