With the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in full swing, it’s time to take a look at some of the most revolutionary (or just plain fun) toys coming out of the conference.
While wearable tech and next-gen televisions are reportedly all the rage at the conference, a number of under-the-radar products were introduced that already have this writer carefully examining his wallet in anticipation of 2015.
Here are some of the best gadgets (so far) from CES 2015, which is set to wrap up this Friday.
1. Noke
Noke (pronounced “no-key”) is the “world’s first Bluetooth padlock.” The innovative lock doesn’t require a key; users simply tap a button on their smartphone to open it up. Users can even share the ability to unlock the padlock with a friend. Smartphone runs out of battery? Key in a unique code by tapping on the face of the padlock and you’re in. At $54.99, I’m picking one up.
2. MyBrain Melomind headset
The MyBrain Melomind is a Bluetooth-connected headset that sends carefully-picked, relaxing “audio environments” into your brain. MyBrain claims that in just one 15-minute session, “you will be able to relax and empower your brain capacities.” Users can track their relaxation sessions with nifty personal health profiles. The company hopes to have the devices in consumers’ hands by the end of the year.
3. Smarter WiFi iKettle
Tea enthusiasts short on time, rejoice! The iKettle from Smarter is here. Start boiling your kettle from anywhere in the house using a smartphone, then get notifications when the tea is ready to be poured and the kettle needs a refill. You can even set the app to start a fresh pot when you pull into your driveway. Good luck getting your hands on one, though; all but two styles are completely sold out at the company’s online store.
4. Quitbit Smart Lighter
Quitbit bills itself as the “first smart lighter and app to help you quit smoking.” The lighter pairs up with a smartphone app to help smokers keep track of how many cigarettes they’ve had in a day, so they can better plan for quitting. The lighter automatically records every cigarette smoked throughout the day, and the LED display tells the user how long it’s been since they’ve had a smoke, and that day’s cost in cigarettes. Best of all: the lighter doesn’t use a flame to light the cigarette, opting instead for a super-hot coil that cuts down on more harmful chemicals. Even better: according to Quitbit’s website, the lighter lasts for an entire week on one charge. Preorder one for $99 here.
5. Pacif-i Smart Pacifier
Yes, it seems they have thought of everything. Enter the world’s first Bluetooth-enabled pacifier, from Blue Maestro. The smart pacifier can take little ones’ temperature and can remind parents when to administer medicine. The pacifier can even send out a notification if overwhelmed parents leave it behind. At $40, the gadget is a pricey one to be sticking in a child’s mouth, but first-time parents and other obsessive types should love it.
6. Samsung’s 105-inch bendable TV set
Television sets that bend on command are not exactly new, having been introduced by Samsung at last year’s CES. But this year, they’re becoming reality. Mashable reports that Samsung’s UN105S9B will officially be released this year. The 105-inch behemoth can literally bend at the owners’ whim, with custom curves suited to each buyers’ personal taste. The TV features 4K resolution and quantum-dot technology for improved color. While there is no shipping date or price has been announced yet, you probably won’t be rushing out to get it; last year’s model reportedly cost $260,000.
7. LG Twin Wash Washing Machine
Ok, so it’s not the most exciting product at this year’s conference. Still, as someone who regularly tangles with laundry, this might be the product I’m most curious about. LG’s Twin Wash washing machines feature two separate chambers, so those up to their necks in dirty laundry can do two loads at once. The second chamber opens up in a drawer underneath the main unit, almost like a freezer. TechCrunch reports that the washer comes equipped with TurboWash technology, which sprays detergent and water directly on clothing using two high-pressure nozzles. This supposedly saves water and gets your clothes cleaned quicker, which is always nice. Also: the washer is WiFi-enabled, so it can let you know when your clothes are done.
CES is set to continue through Friday in Las Vegas. More than 160,000 people attended the conference last year, and a similar number of people are expected at this year’s event.
COMMENTS
Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.