CES 2014: 4K TVs and Wearable Dominate in Las Vegas

Since 1967, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has attracted the most innovative companies and showcased the latest technology in products as diverse as cars, cell phones and television. This trade show is one of the best ways the public can gain awareness about consumer technology trends and a glimpse at the latest technological developments. CES 2014 offered a glimpse into the world of curved and bendable Ultra HD TVs, wearable devices and a host of smart products.

 

Curved and Bendable Ultra HD TVs

For most Americans, it’s hard to imagine a time when television sets did not exist.  Many are so enthralled with this device that they’ve been reduced to coach potato status. The television and our craving for more entertainment content also influenced the development of other devices such as the VCR, DVR, streamers, etc. This has resulted in a revolutionized viewing experience.

 

CES 2014 proves that TVs are still developing. TVs have become bigger and thinner – the hallmark flat screen TV—but that’s not all.

 

There’s a new breed of screens on the market called Ultra HD, also known as UHD or 4K TVs. Some are even curved or bendable. Take for instance, Samsung’s 105-inch curved Ultra HD TV—the first of its kind.

 

These new 4K breed of screens are more advanced that the average HD TV. As their name suggests, they offer 4 times the resolution of typical HD screens—that’s 4 times the 1080p resolution found in Full HD TVs. The 4K TV offers a more immersive viewing experience as well as several other benefits according to TV experts and enthusiasts. The greater pixel density of 4K screens produces stunning picture quality and is a useful technology since larger screens require more pixels in order to produce improved color, depth and detail.

 

Samsung and LG also displayed 4K TVs that bend at the touch of a button. These range in different sizes and are a unique if not useful addition to the TV market.  

 

Lovers of the flat screen might be wondering why bendable screens are even necessary. Why spend thousands of dollars for a screen that bends when cheaper options which offer a great viewing experience are available? According to TV developers, curved TVs offer a more immersive experience that is similar to 3D. Though that may not be reason enough to spend big bucks, these ultra-expensive devices are an undeniably attractive TVs that offer a glimpse into an interesting future.

 

 

Wearable and Smart Devices: From Smart watches to Bluetooth-enabled toothbrushes

Due to developments in technology, wearable devices are no longer science fiction. Equipped with mini-computer chips, these devices monitor your daily physical fitness via heart rate, step counts, etc. They can also act as locators or smart communicators by connecting to GPS systems, smart phones, resulting in a more connected world. They are part of the trend towards a more connected world.

 

In the past, gadgets like the Kickstater-funded Pebble watch and Google Glass have revolutionized how Americans view wearable gadgets.  This year, Pebble Steel entered the market—the more stylish version of the Pebble smart watch. Its metallic exterior and multicolored screen will be an attractive upgrade for those who want a more stylish smart watch. Since the interior remains as smart as ever, Americans with a lust for watches that do more than tell the time, have a lot to look forward to with the Pebble Steel. Arguably the Pebble gadgets are the most successful smart watch yet, eclipsing the Samsung’s Galaxy Gear and other wearables which still have not resonated with consumers.

 

Those who have an interest in other types of wearables have more to consider based on the CES 2014 expo. Other impressive items in this category that were on display included the following:

 

• Sony Smart Band: This fitness tracker records information about its wearer including daily physical activities and your past locations thereby making it easier for you to track your life via logs.
  
  

  Google Glasses

 

• Run Phones Sweatband: This wearable looks like an average sweatband but don’t let its looks fool you. It has built-in headphones which solve the problem of bobbing headsets which don’t quite fit in your ears while you’re jogging.

 

• LG Life Band Touch: Unlike other smart bands, the LG Life Band has a small touch screen. Their physical designs allow wearers to receive email and text notifications, track their physical activities, and control music.

 

• Netatmo “June” Wellness Bracelet: It measures your skin’s exposure to ultra-violet rays and sends the information to your computer.

 

• Kolibree’s Bluetooth-enabled toothbrush: This toothbrush monitors how effectively you bright your teeth, offering real-time feedback which can improve your oral health.

 

Ultra HD TVs and wearables definitely dominated the Las Vegas based tech show. This is not very surprising when one considers the fact that smart phones and tablets glut the market. Though it is uncertain whether or not these technologically advanced devices will hit it big with consumers, one fact is sure: they offer us a glimpse into the future. Cheers to a world that remains innovative. Who’d have thought several years ago that a device as simple as the toothbrush would give instant feedback or that super crisp TV screens would bend?

 

 

CES 2014: 4K TVs and Wearable Dominate in Las Vegas