Mike Strong, Arts & Living Editor
The start of a new year also means the start of a new wave of technology. Each year, this new wave is introduced by a massive trade show in Las Vegas, known as the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This event begins Jan. 6 and runs through Jan. 9. Here is a preview of some of the innovative technology that will be on display at the convention:
Vehicles:
As technology grows exponentially, so does its incorporation into all aspects of life. The concept of a “self-driving” car has become a reality over the past couple of years. Now that this technology has become more feasible, it is finding its way into consumer vehicles. Mercedes-Benz will be showing off a conceptual design for a car in which four passengers face each other, centered around a communal table. This design practically does away with all interior control, leaving it all up to the computer running the car.
Phones:
Because industry leaders like Apple and Samsung typically host their own events to make major flagship phone announcements, do not expect much from them in terms of big reveals. However, it is not entirely impossible that the Galaxy S6 could be shown during CES 2015. Other manufacturers such as Sony, LG, HTC and Microsoft will likely make an appearance at the show. With the current trend moving toward large, curved mobile devices – expect most new announcements to feature such designs. It is worth noting that there is a specialized event for mobile devices, called the Mobile World Congress, coming up in just a month. So, this may soften the number of large announcements at CES.
TVs:
With 3D fading out of consumers’ attentions and 1080p HD becoming a standard, the focus for televisions has now shifted to 4K Ultra HD and curved displays. Now that 4K has been around for a few years, the only new thing to add to it is affordability. As it has been, it was nearly impossible to find a 4K television for under $1000. Vizio has broken that trend with their P-Series 50’’ television, so it is not unlikely that other manufacturers will follow suit and help usher 4K in as a more standard format. LG has already announced that they will be showing off a new screen technology called “Quantum Dot.” This technology uses what are called nanocrystal semiconductors within a liquid crystal display, which give the screen brighter, more vibrant colors.
Virtual Reality:
VR headsets are finally becoming a reality for at-home use. With both Sony’s Project Morpheus and the Oculus Rift set to be available for sale in 2015, consumers looking for immersive experiences have a lot to be excited for. Without the possibility to make it out to Vegas to give these devices a try, this doesn’t really do much for those taking in the CES news online. What readers should really look forward to are possible release announcements. There is even the chance that a Microsoft VR headset is announced. Though it might seem like oversaturation of the VR market, having this many options is actually a great thing, as it is sure to drive the prices of these complex devices down.
