Make it make sense
This article is one of eight in a series exploring the key themes from CES 2024. To download the full report from the show, covering seven themes, five product launches, and a few other lovely things besides, click here.
Why is this interesting?
Some of the most interesting technologies at CES were focussed on breaking down barriers for people who are differently abled or neurodivergent.
Key products:
The critical questions:
The detail:
Across the show, there were a number of assistive technologies that have life-changing potential.
Glidance showed a robotic cane for the visually impaired that uses on-board image processing to guide people through unfamiliar environments. The motorised base can steer to avoid uneven ground, while a voice guide provides an active description of the environment through which the user is moving.
Local large language models found a natural home in an array of translation devices that bring the dream of the babel fish to life. Working without a cellular connection (car makers, take note), Timekettle's X1 Interpreter Hub was able to offer live transcription and translation of around 40 languages (including regional accents) right there on the show floor through wireless earbuds. The Fluentalk T1 added image translation capabilities.
领英推荐
EssilorLuxottica showed off the fruits of their acquisition of Nuance Hearing with a range of eyeglass frames (see above) that, in another nod to calm technology too, incorporate discrete, open-ear hearing aid technology. There are designed to help people suffering from mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
Palmplug's hand-tracking gloves, which provide both haptic and visual feedback have a multitude of uses as an interface device. But it was their use in supporting stroke recovery that was most interesting. By engaging patients in different types of play, the gloves help restore the brain body connection and, therefore, manual dexterity.
Download the StudioPhro* CES 2024 Report
If you can't wait for each theme to be published here on LinkedIn, sign up here to access the full CES 2024 report, which includes:
All up, you can expect 7,8000 words of opinionated, actionable commentary about the show, liberally illustrated with over 100 images and videos.
What's StudioPhro*?
StudioPhro* is the independent design strategy consultancy of Drew Smith - that's me!
I'm an analyst, design strategist and storyteller who started out as a car designer.
I help leaders in the automotive and mobility sectors imagine the future and make it happen.
If you'd like to talk about thought leadership, strategic opportunity mapping, design research and strategy, or executive sparring for design leaders, drop me a message here on LinkedIn or take a look at the StudioPhro* website.