The 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) wrapped up on January 12th after showcasing a wide range of innovative new technologies, especially in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and automotive. Major themes this year included AI-powered home appliances, autonomous driving advancements, electric vehicle concepts, and an expanding “mobility ecosystem” going beyond vehicles.
AI Permeates the Home
Various home appliance makers highlighted AI-enabled products to simplify cooking, cleaning, entertainment and more in the home. Samsung announced new refrigerators, vacuums, washers and dryers that can communicate with each other to automatically order groceries, schedule maintenance, and optimize cycles.
LG showcased transparent OLED TVs that can turn opaque when off, integrating into room design. They also have in-screen sensors that can dim or brighten the display based on ambient light conditions.
Startups like Perfecta and Brisket debuted AI-powered grills and ovens that can identify foods placed inside and automatically cook them to perfection using cameras and conductivity sensors. Bartending robots like Makr Shakr can scan RFID chips to prepare custom cocktails.
Autonomy and Electrification Advance in Automotive
Most major automakers highlighted advancements in electric and autonomous vehicle capabilities. BMW and Stellantis revealed AI-assisted hands-free highway driving up to 85 mph. Hyundai subsidiary Supernal announced plans for an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft by 2028.
Multiple electric pickup truck concepts also debuted from VinFast, Ram, and Chevrolet. VinFast’s in particular aims to deliver 500 miles of range via a large 200 kWh battery pack option. Honda showed the Honda 0 family of small electric vehicles optimized for urban mobility.
In total 27 EV models were featured at the show, reflecting the ongoing industry shift beyond internal combustion engines.GM CEO Mary Barra delivered a keynote espousing their transition to EVs, plans to launch an autonomous ride sharing service, and growth into alternate mobility businesses.
Expanding an Ecosystem Beyond Vehicles
Many exhibitors focused on expanding their “mobility ecosystem” to encompass far more than just personal vehicles. Kia announced a “Beyond Mobility” strategy to become a software-focused service provider partnering with global tech firms on autonomous fleets, last-mile micromobility, robotics, AI and more.
Stellantis and Amazon aim to create an AI-infused “Mobile Drive” platform spanning vehicle dashboards, smartphones, smart homes and in-car delivery services. VinFast plans to integrate crypto wallets and NFTs into its connected vehicles. Multiple mobility firms are venturing into insurance, maintenance, charging networks, and content delivery.
Implementing AI Responsibly
AI promises new benefits but also poses risks if deployed without oversight. Universities and activist groups hosted panels urging tech firms and lawmakers collaborate on AI standards. Top recommendations included designing transparency into systems, considering impacts on jobs, diversity biases, and forming a global watchdog organization.
“The pace of AI innovation is blistering. Without reasonable guardrails, such velocity risks unintended collisions,” remarked Senator Jacky Rosen who convened an AI policy session with other legislators and tech experts. She plans to propose various AI regulatory and funding bills upon returning to Washington.
Outlook Going Forward
CES 2024 leaves a clear impression of AI as an enabling “invisible force” according to Samsung Electronics CEO Jong-Hee Han. Over 75% of exhibitors incorporated AI, machine learning or sensory perception into products spanning all facets of consumer and professional industries.
Going forward, AI promises to alter many walks of daily life but will require prudent implementation and governance to develop responsibly and equitably. Further electric and autonomous vehicle advancements also appear imminent, judging by the sheer volume of related exhibitors and enthusiastic receptions.
With sci-fi concepts like AI robot helpers, eVTOL taxis, automotive autonomy, and AR/VR blending the real and virtual coming closer to reality each year, the future seems more stimulating than ever thanks to events like CES demonstrating what may await just around the corner.
Key Announcements Summary
| Company | Announcement Highlights |
|---|---|
| Samsung | AI-powered home appliances with automatic grocery ordering, maintenance scheduling, cycle optimization etc. |
| LG | Transparent TVs with in-screen light sensors to automatically adjust brightness/dimming |
| Perfecta & Brisket | AI-powered grills and ovens that automatically identify and cook foods |
| Makr Shakr | Robot bartenders that can prepare custom cocktails |
| BMW & Stellantis | Up to 85 mph hands-free highway driving using AI assistance |
| Supernal | Plans for 2028 eVTOL autonomous electric aircraft |
| VinFast | Electric pickup with 200 kWh battery option targeting 500 mile range |
| Honda | Showcased “Honda 0” series of small electric urban vehicles |
| GM | Over 25% of keynote focused on transitioning to EVs and other mobility services |
| Kia | Announced “Beyond Mobility” plan to move into autonomous fleets, micromobility, robotics etc |
| Stellantis & Amazon | In-vehicle services integration like AI assistants, ecommerce, smart home control |
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