CES® 2024 was like stepping into a sci-fi movie. Only the popcorn was real, and the special effects were available for pre-order. I walked all 2 million square feet of exhibit space (several times) using one essential filter: “Technology is meaningless unless it changes the way we behave.” While it’s true that AI was the overarching theme of this year’s show – that’s like saying integrated circuits, or data, or electricity were the theme of the show. AI is table stakes now. It’s incorporated everywhere it’s needed (like all of the other enabling technologies), so there’s no need to call it out. That said, there were a few standouts in Las Vegas last week. Here’s a short list of my favorites.
Samsung’s Transparent MicroLED Displays
This was the “wow” moment of CES 2024. Nothing prepares you for this engineering tour de force. Samsung displayed the transparent screens in front of traditional MicroLED monitors creating a visually stunning 3D effect that literally left you speechless. The tech has no price, no launch date, and you’ll have to think very hard about where you might put such a display to use. Clearly (no pun intended), there are commercial, experiential, and artistic uses for transparent screens, but I’m not sure it’s ever going to replace the 75″ flatscreen in your living room. Learn more.
Sony Torchlight
Sony Pictures Entertainment was showing off Torchlight, a new advanced visualization facility located at Sony Pictures in Culver City. Torchlight allows filmmakers to create digital scenes before principal photography, in a hands-on virtual environment using Unreal Engine and virtual cameras. The facility also gives filmmakers the flexibility to communicate to stakeholders in real-time and with unique specificity in film production. Torchlight is operational and currently working on several projects. Learn more.
GE Indoor Smoker
The GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker was “My Favorite Thing at CES (and CES hasn’t started yet).” When I got to see it in-person, it did not disappoint. This countertop appliance, equipped with Active Smoke Filtration, offers a unique solution for imparting wood-smoked flavors in any kitchen setting. The system efficiently turns wood pellets into smoke, then magically transforms it into cooking air, all without setting off your smoke alarm. The smoker comes with a companion app that lets you control the temperature, smoke level, and cooking time. Importantly, the racks and drip tray are dishwasher safe.
ASUS Zenbook Duo 2024
The ASUS Zenbook DUO was my favorite dual-screen laptop at the show. It features two full-size OLED touchscreens, a detachable full-size keyboard, and a built-in kickstand. With dual 14-inch 3K OLED 120 Hz displays, you can instantly expand your workspace up to 19.8 inches. The Zenbook DUO is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and 32 GB LPDDR5x memory, plus up to a 2 TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD. It also features dedicated smart software, intuitive gesture control, and an enhanced-lifespan 75 Wh battery. (Too geeky? Probably. But this is a sweet laptop.)
Withings Beam-O
Withings Beam-O is a new connected health device that combines four medical tools: a stethoscope, an oximeter, a 1-lead ECG and a thermometer. The device provides a comprehensive set of vital signs that can be used for in-person and telehealth medical appointments. With VitalScan, people can easily access their data via the device’s Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, enabling a long-term view to aid diagnosis and follow-up.
The Truly Best of CES 2024
For me, the best part of CES 2024 was seeing everyone in-person. The show was crowded and full of life and positive energy. It was great to see old friends, meet new ones, and to spend time with people IRL. Online meetings are a technological marvel, but nothing beats coming together as a community to learn about (and celebrate) the science and technology that is changing our world. Kudos to Gary Shapiro, Kinsey Fabrizio, John Kelley and the incredible team at the CTA.
Author’s note: This is not a sponsored post. I am the author of this article and it expresses my own opinions. I am not, nor is my company, receiving compensation for it. This work was created with the assistance of various generative AI models. CES® is the registered trademark of The Consumer Technology Association.® The Palmer Group is not endorsed by, affiliated with, or sponsored by CES.