Every day brings brand new consumer electronics that claim to solve some problem or make our lives better in some way. More and more, companies are making smarter, more seamlessly linked devices by capitalising on emerging tech trends like the internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Even if most of them are just passing distractions that we’ll put away in a drawer or cabinet without giving them a second thought, every once in a while, one comes along that could really improve our lives.
In light of this, we figured it would be prudent to take stock of the most interesting and practical devices that have lately come to my attention, as well as a handful of devices that will undoubtedly make waves in the next year. It is possible that some of them may be entertaining trinkets, while others could be practical necessities or even lifesavers!
Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest Pro
In introducing nearly fifteen million people to its take on the metaverse, Meta’s Quest 2 VR headset was a smashing success. Even more advanced and engaging virtual reality experiences will soon be available thanks to the debut of two new headgear, which we have known all along was just the beginning.
This consumer-focused headset line will likely see a price drop for the upcoming Meta Quest 3, which is expected to attract more consumers to the ecosystem. The headset is anticipated to be more of a refinement than a radical departure from the current Quest, as it will not include features like eye-tracking that are seen in more expensive headsets. However, experts who wish to participate in creating the virtual worlds that will constitute the metaverse will find the Quest Pro to be a useful tool for working efficiently.
Apple Watch Ultra
Although Apple has been producing smartwatches for consumers for some time, they didn’t launch a new model until late 2022. This was in response to the influx of high-end sports and luxury watches from brands like Garmin and Tag Heuer. The titanium casing of the Apple Watch Ultra increases its durability and resilience compared to earlier iterations of the Apple Watch. In addition to these improvements, it boasts a S8 CPU, a screen that is both brighter and more scratch-resistant, and a battery life that is nearly double that of its predecessor. A depth gauge and water temperature sensors are among the new devices designed for divers.
Withings U-Scan
In addition to suggesting dietary and activity changes, the more than 3,000 metabolites found in human urine can be utilised to construct a comprehensive picture of our health. This information can serve as an early warning system for various medical issues. The U-Scan was developed by the smart device company Withings because of this. Designed to be placed in a toilet bowl, this gadget is touted as the “first hands-free connected home urine lab” and is prepared to gather samples at any given moment. Doctors can use the enhanced data collection and analytics made possible by the optional “For Professionals” cartridge to track their patients’ health over time, track any changes in their daily routines, and gather information for clinical trials.
Lifeaz Home Defibrillator
Although it’s encouraging that wearable tech is beginning to detect disorders like atrial fibrillation—a risk factor for cardiovascular issues—it is still unable to treat or prevent these issues. As a result, it’s encouraging to see competing firms developing immediate-use medical intervention devices. Unveiled at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, the Lifeaz Home Defibrillator is the first of its kind to be specifically intended for use in private residences. In essence, it allows us to bring the ability to save someone from a potentially deadly cardiac arrest into the comfort of our own homes. Even though it hasn’t been approved by the FDA yet in the US, it has supposedly saved 17 lives in over 100,000 homes in Europe.
Ring Always Home Drone Camera
The newest smart home security device from Ring is an autonomous drone that can fly about your house, keeping an eye on things that regular cameras can’t. The Always Home drone cam, which had been hinted about in 2020, was unveiled in prototype form at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show. Speculations have it priced at about $250, which sounds reasonable for such a high-tech home security device, but no firm information on when it will be available has been released. Not only might it notify you of intruders, but it could also be useful for homeowners who sometimes forget to turn off the cooker or windows before leaving the house.
Airxom mask
A “smart mask” like this was initially introduced a few years ago during a technological invention frenzy to combat the worldwide COVID-19 outbreak. The Airxom mask has undergone multiple revisions and is now advertised as offering protection against airborne microbes, viruses, and bacteria. This is achieved by means of its polyethylene terephthalate filters, which contain mesh textiles that entrap particles. These filters then expose the particles to antiseptic and antibiotic copper, which renders them inactive. Additionally, a photocatalytic silver surface is exposed to ultraviolet light. All toxins, biological and non-organic, are rendered harmless as they travel through the mask via this process.
SonicBrush
We all know that we should clean our teeth for at least two minutes, correct? I don’t think so anymore! You may get a thorough cleaning without ever having to move the SonicBrush about your mouth, thanks to its claim of being the first completely automated toothbrush in the world. The makers assert that it can cut our two-minute tooth-brushing session down to only thirty seconds because it cleans every tooth in the mouth at once. This allows us to take advantage of the opportunity for a brief nap in bed first thing in the morning and again before bed. Another groundbreaking device that made its debut at CES this year was the SonicBrush.
DJI Avata
Quite a few of us have recently come to appreciate the thrill and the possibilities for breathtaking aerial photography and videography that drones provide. Aimed at individuals seeking the exhilaration of first-person flight, the newest product from consumer drone industry pioneers DJI is sure to satisfy. The DJI Avata incorporates a wide field-of-view headset into its design to give the user an immersive flying experience, bringing the sensation of high-speed flight from the drone to them on the ground. You can easily pilot the drone with your hands thanks to the motion controller’s joystick-like sensation, and a crash won’t hurt anything because to its sturdy construction.
GoCycle G4
While electric bikes have long been an eco-friendly and practical mode of transportation in urban areas, their immobility has been a major drawback for many. If you’re looking for an electric bike, but are concerned about its bulk, the GoCycle G4 is one of the first of its kind to fold completely flat, making it easy to transfer on public transport or store in a car for longer trips. While the G4 isn’t exactly inexpensive, it offers all the features you could want in a primary method of transportation (especially for city dwellers), so it could be worth the price.
Timekettle Translation Earbuds
Timekettle claims to have developed the world’s most advanced line of real-time, AI-powered translation earbuds. There are a variety of versions available for professional, casual, and travel users. The WT2, M3, and WT2 Plus earbuds are great for translating short talks when travelling, business meetings, and phone calls. This allows you to carry on a conversation in your normal voice while the earbuds translate what you say. The most advanced versions support 40 languages, ranging from Arabic to Vietnamese, and can support simultaneous conversations between up to six users.
