The Consumer Electronics Show, commonly known as CES, returns to Las Vegas from January 9 to January 12. It spotlights cutting edge consumer technology and showcases the latest innovations from around the world. This article highlights a selection of the most noteworthy exhibits and themes from the event.
About the Consumer Electronics Show in a nutshell
CES has been an American staple since 1967, dedicated to unveiling new devices and breakthroughs in technology. The exhibits have ranged from unusual concepts that never took off to electronics that have become household staples. History books remember the world’s first video recorder shown in 1970, the CD and video camera in 1981, and the DVD format in 1996. Early introductions also included gaming consoles like Philips CD-i in 1991 and Microsoft Xbox in 2003. The show has always been a stage for both novelty and practical tech that shapes daily life. [VG Times]
In the 90s a wave of gaming consoles arrived from brands like Philips, Panasonic and Apple, with Sony ultimately steering the market toward lasting success. [VG Times]
Today the spotlight turns to CES 2024 innovations and what they could mean for the future of tech. [VG Times]
Claw A1M, a portable console from MSI
Building on the momentum created by the Steam Deck, major hardware makers unveiled their own handhelds. MSI, known for graphics cards, motherboards and laptops, introduced the Claw A1M in two configurations. One uses a 16 core Intel Ultra 7 processor now priced at 799, the other uses a 14 core Intel Ultra 5 at 699. A 7-inch IPS display runs at 120 Hz, but active playtime remains limited to about two hours. The lingering question is how long developers will continue to support the platform.
Are you excited for a portable console from MSI?
Hyperkin, a portable console with SEGA games
Hyperkin targets retro gamers by letting players load Sega Genesis and Mega Drive cartridges. When connected to a TV it functions as a home console, and in couch mode it supports two gamepads for cooperative play.
Project Esther, a chair cushion for tactile gaming
New haptic experiences extend beyond vibrating controllers. Project Esther is a seat cover that syncs with a computer to deliver dynamic vibrations that respond to in‑game actions, intensifying the sense of immersion.
XR helmet from Sony
This headset is designed for extended reality projects, appealing to game developers, 3D filmmakers and industrial designers. It features OLED displays with 4K resolution and real-time capabilities for creating high‑fidelity three‑dimensional visuals. Sales are slated for this year, with consumer bundles for games expected later.
ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid, a convertible laptop from Lenovo
The ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid offers a detachable screen that can function as a tablet, while the main body can connect to a larger display for multitasking across screens.
Visible, a laptop without a screen from Spacetop
Spacetop pushes the idea of a portable workstation by pairing augmented reality glasses with a complete Android system. It can display more than a dozen windows at once, though questions remain about daily practicality and long‑term usability.
Rabbit, a neural network in your pocket
Rabbit is a palm‑sized assistant that responds to voice commands to send messages, book rides, reserve tickets and order meals. Its built‑in neural network handles requests, presents options on screen, and then completes actions after user confirmation, sparing the need to launch apps or enter card details.
2D/3D gaming monitor from Samsung
Samsung’s Neo QLED monitor supports 3D movie viewing and VR gaming without extra eyewear. It supports SteamVR projects, raising the question of whether it could replace traditional VR headsets or merely complement them.
Transparent TVs from Samsung and LG
CES showcased transparent display concepts from both brands. Samsung demonstrated a MicroLED‑based transparent panel with customizable visibility, while LG projected images on an off‑state OLED panel that resembles clear glass.
Transparent cases for CORSAIR system units
CORSAIR revealed two see‑through PC cases, the 6500X and the smaller 2500X with wooden accents instead of metal separators. Glass panels can showcase animated lighting and effects.
Xgimi IMAX 4K, a smart projector
Home cinema fans will appreciate automatic alignment to the wall for ideal picture placement. The projector also supports the IMAX format, delivering exceptional imagery for movies and big‑screen experiences.
Flex In & Out Flip, a flexible smartphone from Samsung
The Flex In & Out Flip features two displays on opposite sides and a design that can bend in multiple directions while preserving touch responsiveness. It is built to endure extreme temperatures from 60°C to minus 20°C and is resistant to water and sand.
New video cards from NVIDIA
NVIDIA announced a family of RTX 40 Super graphics cards slated to ship in January.
- RTX4070Super. Price: 599;
- RTX 4070 Ti Super. Cost: 799;
- RTX4080Super. Price: 999.
Afeela EV electric car from Sony and Honda
This electric vehicle is being developed by Honda in collaboration with Sony and can be driven with a PlayStation 5 style DualSense gamepad. The joke around it is that it feels like Gran Turismo translated to real life.
Ballie, a smart home control robot from Samsung
Ballie offers hands‑free automation for the smart home. It can place calls, power appliances, and even keep an eye on the dog, ensuring routines stay on track.
Live 3, wireless headphones from JBL
These headphones feature a compact screen embedded in the housing to control calls, messages and music directly from the earbud area. They are priced around 200 and expected to ship in the summer.
Do you use wireless headphones?
Replacement side panels for PlayStation 5 Slim from Sony
CES previewed optional replacement panels in vibrant colors including volcanic red, sterling silver and cobalt blue, with price points around 55 each.
Avatar Cloud Engine from NVIDIA
Genshin Impact fans will likely enjoy the chance to chat with their favorite heroine. The platform enables character interactions that respond and inquire, with MiHoYo studio among the first testers.
MEG 321URX QD‑OLED monitor with built‑in cheats from MSI
Using neural networks, this monitor can detect opponents mid‑match and reveal their location. It also offers optical zoom to improve aiming accuracy. Anti‑cheat systems reportedly do not view these features as unfair play.
ACE Kairos technology for artificial intelligence in games from NVIDIA
With this tech NPCs respond in richer, more natural ways. They can answer questions, discuss stories, and take actions not scripted in advance, such as pouring a celebratory glass when the moment calls for it.
Wind‑up keyboard and mouse from Lenovo
This is a playful concept rather than a revolution. A winding wheel recharges the devices for five minutes of use, with USB‑C charging also available if desired.
Which CES 2024 devices left the strongest impression? Share thoughts in the comments. [VG Times]