2024 - Consumer Electronics Show (CES) - Events

Consumer Electronics Show (CES)

Consumer Electronics Show (CES)

2024

CES is the world's gathering place for all those who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. It has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years - the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), it attracts the world's business leaders and pioneering thinkers.

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Triple4s smart pepper spray: Revolutionizing self-defense @ CES 2024

2024-01-15

Self-defense has remained fairly unchanged for a long time, regardless of the advancements in other industries. For personal protection, there are a small number of non-lethal protections, but few of them are as effective as Mace. The problem is that standard pepper spray is only an in-the-moment solution - for now. That is where Triple4s comes in.

About Triple4s


Matt Rogien, the founder of Triple4s, introduced a groundbreaking innovation in the self-defense industry - connected pepper spray. This high-tech device, powered and manufactured by Mace, aims to revolutionize the way individuals protect themselves and notify others in emergency situations.

The inspiration behind this innovative product came from Matt Rogien's personal experiences. With family members who frequently faced dangerous situations while commuting in South Side Chicago, Rogien wanted a way to ensure their safety and provide immediate assistance when needed. Thus, the brainchild of Triple4s was born.

What is Triple4s?


The Triple4s pepper spray device connects to a user's phone via an app. One of the key aspects of this connected pepper spray is its ability to notify others when it is used. When the trigger is pulled, the user's phone sends a notification stating the user's location and the time of the incident. This crucial information enables quick response times from emergency services and ensures that help is on the way as soon as possible.

The device also offers an upgraded subscription feature that connects users directly with a 24/7 emergency monitoring service. This service dispatches emergency responders and provides real-time monitoring of the situation. By combining the power of technology and self-defense, Triple4s aims to enhance personal safety and ensure timely assistance when needed.

Triple4s also plans to offer situational awareness training through their app, providing users with the knowledge and skills to navigate various scenarios effectively. By gathering geographic statistical data, the company aims to identify high-risk areas and educate users on how to stay safe.

The changing personal safety industry


This connected pepper spray device is just one example of the growing trend of interconnected self-protection products. As technology advances, we now have the ability to inform friends and emergency contacts with a simple tap on our phones. This newfound connectivity empowers individuals to take control of their safety and provides peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations.

However, it is important to note that not all states permit the carrying of pepper spray. Potential users should check their local regulations before purchasing this device. Triple4s understands the importance of adhering to local laws and encourages responsible use of their product.

Pricing and availability


In terms of pricing, the connected pepper spray device is expected to range from $75 to $100. This places it in the high-end luxury category, reflecting the advanced technology and features it offers. Additionally, the device allows for cartridge replacement, ensuring its longevity and usability for up to three years.

While an exact release date has not been specified, Triple4s is actively working on resolving supply chain issues and conducting product testing. The company aims to launch the connected pepper spray device in 2024, providing individuals with a powerful tool for self-defense and emergency notification.

Summary


In conclusion, Triple4s's connected pepper spray device represents a significant advancement in the self-defense industry. By combining technology, personal safety, and immediate notification, this innovative product revolutionizes the way individuals protect themselves and seek assistance in emergency situations. With its ability to connect with emergency contacts and provide real-time location updates, the connected pepper spray device empowers users to take control of their safety and ensures help is on the way when needed. As technology continues to evolve, products like these pave the way for a safer and more connected future.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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Nutrix AG: Unveiling a game-changing cortisol sensor @ CES 2024

2024-01-15

In modern society, one of the few constants is stress. Whether it's a big presentation at work, a growing family, financial concerns, or even a business trip to Las Vegas for CES, stressors are everywhere. Our bodies respond to this stress in a few ways, including by releasing certain hormones into the body. Being able to measure and track these hormones can help you track and properly respond to the stressors we live through every day. Nutrix AG has a sensor to do just that.

What is Nutrix AG?


Maria Hahn, CEO & Founder of Nutrix AG, introduces a revolutionary technology in the field of healthcare - cortisol monitoring using artificial intelligence (AI). She explains the game-changing nature of their Swiss cortisol monitoring sensor and its integration with their digital health platform.

Cortisol is a stress hormone, and the sensor developed by Nutrix AG allows individuals to monitor their cortisol levels easily and conveniently. The process involves placing a small saliva sample on the sensor, which is then analyzed using the device. The data is transferred via Bluetooth to the Nutrix AG software, where it is analyzed by AI.

Using AI to reduce stress


The AI analysis provides valuable insights into an individual's cortisol levels, allowing them to understand their stress levels and take necessary actions. This technology is unique because it allows users to visualize their cortisol curve and identify potential stress-related issues or sleep quality. Nutrix AG's medical team also provides personalized assessments and support based on the information gathered.

The data collected from the cortisol monitoring sensor is not the only aspect of Nutrix AG's ecosystem. They also gather information about physical activity, diet, and body composition to provide comprehensive support and personalized treatment plans. The AI analysis plays a crucial role in processing and interpreting this vast amount of data, saving time for doctors and enabling them to assist more patients.

When asked about the superiority of AI analysis over human doctors, Maria explains that the AI analysis is faster and automates the process, reducing the manual work for doctors. However, she emphasizes that Nutrix AG's approach combines the expertise of their medical team with the efficiency of AI analysis. The goal is to make doctors' lives easier and provide accurate and timely information to assist patients effectively.

Maria expresses her confidence in the validity and accuracy of the AI analysis, comparing the current state of AI in healthcare to the disruption seen in the fintech industry a few years ago. She believes that AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare and improve patient care by streamlining processes and providing valuable insights.

Conclusion


Maria the significance of cortisol monitoring using AI and its potential impact on the healthcare industry. Integrating advanced technology with medical expertise can enhance patient care, enable personalized treatment plans, and improve overall well-being. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, its role in healthcare is expected to grow, leading to further advancements and innovations in the field.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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EXANODIA: Pioneering AI for enhanced mechanical testing @ CES 2024

2024-01-15

Nearly every industry uses machinery. The success of those machines is crucial to the functioning of the business in that industry. For example, everything that is mass-produced has a failure rate. Machines that are used for any period could fail. Being able to test machinery to ensure proper behavior is essential. EXANODIA is automating the process of testing machines to prevent future issues.

EXANODIA's testing automation


AI software has revolutionized various industries, and one area where it has made significant advancements is in industrial inspection. Houcine Mansour, Founder and CEO of EXANODIA, discusses how AI software developed by the company, the first French pure player in non-destructive testing, is improving the process of detecting defects in mechanical equipment.

In the medical field, medical imaging is used to detect pathologies in the human body. Similarly, in industries such as nuclear power plants, oil and gas refineries, and aerospace, it is crucial to inspect equipment for defects. This is where EXANODIA's AI software comes into play. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the software can automatically detect defects in the equipment, making the inspection process more efficient and reliable.

AI improves testing results


The key advantage of AI software in industrial inspection is its ability to address the shortage of human resources. With a limited number of human operators available, it becomes challenging to meet the demands of non-destructive testing and inspection. EXANODIA's software aims to alleviate this issue by assisting human operators in inspecting equipment more rapidly and with better quality results, all at a lower cost.

While Don questions whether AI is better than human operators, the focus of EXANODIA's software is not to replace humans but to augment their capabilities. Due to the scarcity of human resources, operators may lack the necessary competencies and expertise to detect defects accurately and efficiently. By training the AI models using the knowledge and expertise of experienced operators, EXANODIA's software can provide better quality results compared to less-trained individuals.

EXANODIA's first product


During the CES event, EXANODIA showcased its first software, which detects defects in radiographic images. Similar to how a physician examines a radiograph of the human body, EXANODIA's software can analyze radiographic images of equipment and automatically identify defects. This technology has applications in various industries, including nuclear, oil and gas, and aerospace.

The conversation also highlights that EXANODIA's software is currently in the proof-of-concept stage, with plans to partner with large companies in the industrial sector for implementation. The purpose of their presence at CES is to connect with potential partners and investors who can help scale up their technology and develop it further to meet specific industry needs.

The significance of AI software in industrial inspection lies in its potential to cut bottlenecks in the manufacturing and maintenance processes. By streamlining the inspection and testing procedures, companies can save time, reduce costs, and enhance safety. This technology offers a synergy between the capabilities of AI and the requirements of industries, making it a valuable tool for improving industrial inspection practices.

Conclusion


In conclusion, the use of AI software in industrial inspection has the potential to revolutionize the way defects are detected in mechanical equipment. EXANODIA's software exemplifies this by providing faster and more reliable results, addressing the shortage of human resources, and offering cost-effective solutions. As the industry continues to embrace AI technology, the future of industrial inspection looks promising with increased efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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Supraways' vision for urban transport: Autonomous pods @ CES 2024

2024-01-23

Supraways is an eight-year-old startup based in Lyon, France, that is revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars. The company has developed a system of autonomous cars that can carry up to seven passengers and are suspended on beams along highways and airports. This system aims to address the issue of traffic congestion and provide a more efficient and on-demand mode of transportation.

Revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars


The autonomous cars developed by Supraways are not only automated but also equipped with embedded electronic and robotic systems. One of their key innovations is an embedded switch system, which allows the cars to move left and right while the beams remain passive. This eliminates the need for maintenance on the beams, making the system more cost-effective and efficient.

Supraways envisions a network of interconnected loops, where all the stations are offline, similar to a highway system. This means that passengers can travel from one point to another without any stops, resulting in faster and more efficient journeys. The system operates 24 hours a day, and passengers can simply use an app to request a ride to their desired destination. The cars communicate with each other, the infrastructure, and the stations, ensuring smooth and coordinated operations.

A flexible choice for cities


One of the key advantages of Supraways' system is its flexibility. When there are no passengers, the cars can be utilized for freight transportation or other purposes, such as transporting goods or deploying small robots within the city. This flexibility allows for optimal utilization of resources and ensures that the system is not idle during non-peak hours.

The revolutionizing potential of Supraways' autonomous car system lies in its ability to transform urban transit by providing a more efficient, on-demand, and flexible mode of transportation. By utilizing autonomous cars that can communicate with each other and the infrastructure, the system ensures smooth and coordinated operations. With the ability to transport passengers and goods, the system offers a holistic approach to urban mobility.

Las Vegas is an ideal partner


Las Vegas is seen as an ideal test site for Supraways' system due to its compact size and high population density. The system's ability to transport a large number of people quickly and efficiently makes it a perfect fit for cities with a significant number of tourists and residents. By integrating Supraways' autonomous cars into the existing transportation infrastructure, cities like Las Vegas can enhance their mobility options and alleviate traffic congestion.

Conclusion


While the system is still under development, Supraways is building the first K1 model near Lyon, France. They are also working on a proof of concept inside their factory, where they are developing the communication system and artificial intelligence that will govern the cars' operations. The company aims to have the system up and running within the next six months and is actively seeking partnerships and collaborations, including with cities like Las Vegas.

In conclusion, Supraways' autonomous car system has the potential to revolutionize urban transit by addressing the challenges of traffic congestion and providing a more efficient and flexible mode of transportation. With its innovative features and ability to seamlessly integrate into existing infrastructure, the system offers a promising solution for cities seeking to enhance their mobility options. As Supraways continues to develop and expand its system, it will be interesting to see how it transforms urban transportation in the years to come.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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Perfect Memory: Futuristic corporate knowledge management @ CES 2024

2024-01-23

Perfect Memory is a company that aims to streamline corporate knowledge by creating a well of easily accessible information for organizations. They work with companies to generate mission-critical knowledge that can be easily accessed by all staff and partners, making it easier for them to carry out their day-to-day activities.

Perfect Memory: streamlining corporate knowledge


The company has developed a knowledge operating system that fetches knowledge from various sources within the organization and brings it into one single context. This includes both technical and historical information, such as operational data, AI algorithms, scripts, formulas, and even media content like shots from movies or sports events.

Perfect Memory's goal is to help the brain process and access information more easily by structuring and providing better access to it. It's important to note that AI is a valuable tool in achieving this, but it is not the only solution. The challenge lies in bringing all the scattered information from the internet, social media, and other sources together and making it useful in the decision-making process.

One of the main challenges in building corporate knowledge is the scattered nature of information within organizations. Perfect Memory addresses this issue by creating a comprehensive database that includes all types of information. The goal is to make this knowledge retrievable and easily accessible for everyone. For example, a journalist could quickly search for specific segments of video footage featuring LeBron James celebrating in his iconic yellow jersey, enabling them to create a better story from hours of footage.

Handling different types of data


Currently, there is no directory or centralized source of knowledge within companies, making it time-consuming and inefficient to search for specific information. Perfect Memory's platform acts as a knowledge graph, connecting to various data sources, both internal and external, to gather all the relevant information. This includes connecting to AI algorithms, external databases, and other sources of structured and unstructured data.

The service also addresses the challenge of different types of data requiring different processes. For example, written documents require different AI processes than videos. Perfect Memory has a workflow engine that orchestrates the right AI processes and data sources to bring everything into one context that is easily understood by everyone in the organization.

Implementing Perfect Memory in your company


When a company hires Perfect Memory, there is a build phase that involves working closely with the customer for a period of six weeks to six months. The time variation comes from the amount of data being injected, the number of sources, and more. During this time, the company understands the customer's needs and pain points in accessing knowledge. The goal is to fluidify knowledge sharing and bring value to the organization.

Conclusion


In conclusion, Perfect Memory is a company that streamlines corporate knowledge by creating a centralized and easily accessible repository of information. Their knowledge operating system connects to various data sources and applies the right AI processes to bring all the information into one context. By doing so, Perfect Memory aims to improve efficiency, productivity, and knowledge sharing within organizations.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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Dynavisual's innovative displays can be worn and synced @ CES 2024

2024-01-23

LED technology for wearable displays is a groundbreaking innovation that is revolutionizing visual communication. Flexible, bright, animated LED displays are a revolutionary technology that is transforming the way we think about visual communication. These displays, developed by Dynavisual, offer a flexible and expandable solution for integrating LED screens into various textiles, such as clothing, hats, vests, and coats.

How do Dynavisual displays work?


The CEO of Dynavisual, Maria Fernandez, explains that their IoT platform consists of both software and hardware components. The hardware is a bendable and very flexible LED display that can be easily integrated into different textiles. This means that almost anything can be visualized on these displays, making them incredibly versatile.

One of the key features of Dynavisual's LED technology is its brightness and power. The LED screens are three times more powerful than a handy screen, making them highly visible even in bright environments. To support this power, the screens require two lithium batteries, similar to those found in mobile phones. These batteries can be charged using USB-C, making the screens rechargeable and sustainable. With four batteries inside, the screens can last for an impressive eight to ten hours, even when operating at maximum power. This extended battery life makes the screens ideal for use at events, sports stadiums, and other venues where continuous display is required.

The display screens can be made in any size, with one focus being on integrating them into clothing. This allows for a unique and eye-catching visual experience, especially in a stadium where the hats of the audience members can be the main focus. The aspect ratio of the screens can also be customized, allowing users to decide the size and shape of their display.

Dynavisual's LED technology also offers the ability to integrate data and connect to the cloud. This opens up possibilities for gathering information from users and analyzing data for insights. The company envisions partnering with sports garment companies like Nike and Adidas to integrate their LED technology into clothing items. This would not only provide a unique visual experience for spectators but also allow for data collection and analysis.

The potential applications of Dynavisual's LED technology extend beyond the sports industry. The podcast mentioned the music industry as another field where the technology could be utilized. For example, spectators at a concert could wear LED screens that display visuals synchronized with the music, creating an immersive and dynamic experience.

Syncing screens for a unique experience


One of the most impressive features of these displays is their ability to connect thousands of individual screens together to create a mega screen. Fernandez gives the example of a stadium, where 100,000 people can each have a small section of the screen. When they stand together, the entire message or image is revealed. This creates a truly immersive and engaging visual experience for the audience.

In terms of video quality, Dynavisual displays at 40 frames per second, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. The CEO mentions that if these displays were used in a stadium with TV cameras broadcasting, the viewers would have a perfect view of the content.

Testing and release plans


Dynavisual has already tested this technology on a smaller scale and is now seeking partners to help scale it up. They are looking for investments, collaborations with manufacturers to create products using their technology, and partnerships with advertising agencies, football clubs, sport clubs, and event agencies.

While the technology is not yet available for individual purchase, it is primarily targeted towards corporations and organizations. The software platform that accompanies the displays is flexible and can easily be adapted to meet different needs. It is cloud-based, allowing users to upload videos and schedule them to play at specific times, similar to a digital sign.

Conclusion


Overall, flexible, bright, animated LED displays are an exciting innovation in visual communication. Dynavisual's technology offers endless possibilities for showcasing messages, images, and videos in creative and engaging ways. With the ability to connect multiple screens together to create a mega screen, these displays have the potential to transform the visual experience at events, stadiums, and other large-scale venues.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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Dolphin Design: Better IoT with ultra-low power AI chips @ CES 2024

2024-01-24

Ultra-low-power AI chips can revolutionize the way companies build IoT smart devices and power artificial intelligence capabilities. In this conversation, Vincent Huard, the CTO of Dolphin Design, discusses the company's focus on developing ultra-low power chips for various applications, including power management, audio, and AI.

The challenge of power consumption


One of the main challenges in implementing cutting-edge AI is power consumption. High power requirements raise costs and limit the scalability of innovative devices. Dolphin Design's ultra-low-power AI chips address this issue by significantly reducing power consumption, making it more feasible to deploy AI-enabled devices in real-life scenarios.

These revolutionary plug-and-play chips provide energy-efficient solutions that can run on battery power for extended periods and can even operate without a battery at all, a key factor in their adoption. Dolphin Design aims to attract customers in the imaging, microcontroller, and MPU industries who want to incorporate AI into their devices in a cost-effective manner.

Low-power chip applications


There are a lot of practical use cases for these chips. In smart buildings, they can be used to count the number of people in a room and adjust heating or cooling accordingly. In retail, the chips can track customer movement and analyze their interests, helping businesses optimize product placement. The chips can also be used in urban planning to monitor bike paths or count the number of bicycles passing through a specific area.

The chips have potential applications in safety and disaster management, as well. For instance, they can replace manual car clickers used to count traffic on roads, providing more accurate and reliable data. They can also be deployed in isolated areas to detect wildfires and send alerts, enabling faster response times and potentially saving lives.

Low-cost, scalable IoT solutions


One area where low-cost, scalable IoT solutions can have a significant impact is in the management of sensors and data transfer in smart city applications. The scalability issues associated with sending sensor information over the network can be costly in terms of data transfer and data center expenses. However, these scalability issues can be effectively managed with ultra-low power chips.

Low-power consumption IoT solutions are beneficial when it's hard to provide power, as the battery-powered chips offer a cost-effective alternative to running cables over long distances. These chips can also incorporate renewable energy sources, making these solutions even more efficient and sustainable.

Conclusion: Low-power smart chips are a win for afforidable IoT


Dolphin Design sees two main prospects for their smart chip: chip manufacturers and system makers. Chip manufacturers can license the AI chips' intellectual property (IP) to incorporate into their own chips, while system makers can collaborate with the company to develop specialized chips.

Dolphin Design's low-cost, scalable IoT solutions offer a transformative, energy efficient, cost-effective approach to implementing AI at a larger scale. With their wide range of applications and integration possibilities, these solutions have the potential to revolutionize industries and contribute to the development of smart cities and other IoT applications.

For those interested in learning more about low-cost, scalable IoT solutions, Dolphin Design is ready to help. They offer both IP licensing and design services, making it possible for companies without chip design teams to still benefit from these solutions. Dolphin Design's website provides more information about their offerings and capabilities.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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Skyted: The Solution for Secure and Private Conversations @ CES 2024

2024-01-24

During CES 2024, we got to take a look at the latest version of the Skyted mask, which is a sound-absorbing mask that allows users to make completely silent and confidential calls anywhere at any time. The mask has been developed to solve the problem of people talking loudly in public places, such as trains and airplanes, and disturbing those around them.

Silent, secure mask for confidential calls


The mask features resonators developed by The French Aerospace Lab that absorb all frequencies of the user's voice, preventing any sound from escaping the mask.

The purpose of the mask goes beyond simply preventing disturbance to others. It also addresses concerns about espionage and the need for secure and confidential calls. All data and voice emitted from the mask are encrypted, ensuring that no information is leaked. The encryption process starts from the microphone and continues through third-party carriers, providing a high level of security.

The mask not only provides a solution for confidential calls but also ensures that the user's location and surroundings are not revealed during the conversation. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who want to maintain privacy while making calls, such as those on vacation or conducting business in different locations.

In terms of connectivity, the mask can be used with either wired or Bluetooth connections. It offers both a jack and USB-C port for different user preferences. This flexibility allows users to connect the mask to their devices easily.

The Skyted mask is described as a travel-friendly device that can easily be carried in bags. It is noted that the mask is not just another ordinary face mask, but a specialized product with a specific purpose. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding the purpose of the mask and its potential benefits.

The target market for the Skyted mask includes frequent travelers, such as business people who spend a lot of time on airplanes and trains. It is also suitable for commuters who want to make calls during their daily travels, saving them time by starting their calls earlier. Additionally, the mask is useful for individuals who want to have private conversations in their vehicles, as it cancels out both their voice and external noise.
In terms of cost and availability, the podcast does not provide specific information. However, it suggests that the mask is targeted at a range of customers, including frequent travelers and commuters. The availability and pricing details would need to be obtained separately.

An upgraded model


This is not the first time we have seen the Skyted mask at CES. In 2023, we were first introduced to Skyted, but the device we saw never made it to market. Since then, the company has redesigned the mask to address feedback from those who saw it in action.

The design of the mask has been slimmed down and the weight has been reduced, making it more comfortable to wear. The technology has also been upgraded to cancel out even low frequencies, which are harder to eliminate.

Conclusion


Overall, the Skyted mask offers a unique solution for individuals who require silent and secure communication. With its sound-absorbing technology and encryption capabilities, it provides a way to have confidential conversations without disturbing others or compromising data security. This innovative product has the potential to revolutionize the way people make calls in public spaces and ensure their privacy and security.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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BeAware: Accessibility for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing @ CES 2024

2024-01-24

The Deaf Assistant app is a revolutionary tool that aims to improve accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. Developed by BeAware, this app serves as a personal assistant for deaf people in their everyday lives, providing them with a range of functionalities that enhance their security and ease of communication.

Deaf assistant app for accessibility


Deaf Assistant, developed by BeAware, is a groundbreaking app that offers free accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. The app provides various features and services that aim to improve communication and inclusivity for the deaf community.

The app offers a free version of its services, making it accessible to a wide range of users. BeAware understands that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing already face hurdles in their everyday lives, and the app aims to eliminate any additional barriers by providing free accessibility. This commitment to inclusivity is commendable and reflects the company's mission to enable people and ensure equal opportunities for all.

In addition to its free accessibility, Deaf Assistant also offers premium features for users who require more extensive services. For example, the app provides API access for enterprise users, allowing them to integrate the app's transcripts into their own applications. This is particularly useful for developers creating apps for smart glasses or other wearable devices. By utilizing Deaf Assistant's APIs, developers can easily incorporate speech-to-text capabilities into their applications without the need for extensive technical knowledge.

Transcribing and translating real life


One of the key features of the Deaf Assistant app is its ability to convert any live in-person event into an accessible experience for the deaf within just 15 seconds. This feature, known as Conference Captioning, is particularly useful for events where sign language interpreters may not be available or for older individuals who may not be familiar with sign language.

For example, imagine attending a church service where older individuals struggle to understand and follow what is happening due to their hearing impairment. With the Deaf Assistant app, event organizers can provide live captions for the entire service, ensuring that everyone feels included and connected. This eliminates the need for hearing aids, which may not work effectively in noisy environments or with air interference.

To utilize Conference Captioning, event organizers simply need to wire themselves into the app and provide a unique URL or QR code to the hearing-impaired attendees. These attendees can then either download the app or access the captions directly through the provided URL. The app can be customized with the organizer's branding colors, creating a seamless and personalized experience.

Additionally, the Deaf Assistant app offers live translation capabilities. This means that events can be made accessible not only to the deaf community but also to individuals who speak different languages. For instance, if an event organizer wants to cater to French-speaking attendees, they can simply provide a link for live captions in French.

People are already loving it


The app was launched in 2021 and has already garnered a significant user base, with over 13,000 users across 50 countries. According to analytics, these users utilize the app at least four times every day, highlighting its immense value and popularity within the deaf community.

The Deaf Assistant app has received recognition and acclaim, being featured by Apple and reaching the number-one spot on Hacker News. Its success can be attributed to its simplicity and effectiveness in addressing the accessibility needs of the deaf community.

Conclusion


In conclusion, the Deaf Assistant app developed by BeAware is a game-changer in improving accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hearing impaired. Its Conference Captioning feature allows for live captions at events, ensuring that the deaf community can actively participate and engage. With its user-friendly interface and live translation capabilities, the app is a valuable tool for enhancing communication and inclusivity. By providing a simple and effective solution, the Deaf Assistant app is revolutionizing accessibility and empowering individuals with hearing impairments to navigate their everyday lives with ease.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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ADAM: The digital asset manager for your post-life planning @ CES 2024

2024-01-25

In today's digital age, we have become increasingly reliant on our smartphones and computers to store and preserve our precious memories, important documents, and personal information. However, have you ever stopped to think about what would happen to all of these digital assets if something were to happen to you? This is where ADAM comes in.

ADAM - Securely pass on digital assets


ADAM, which stands for All-Life Digital Asset Manager, is a revolutionary app developed to address the question of what happens to your digital assets when you die. The CEO, Michael Okoye, explains that if something were to happen to you, all of your photos, videos, passwords, and files stored on your phone would be lost forever if you haven't shared your password with anyone. This is a common dilemma faced by many individuals who prioritize their privacy and don't want to grant access to their entire digital lives to others.

To solve this problem, ADAM offers a secure way to pass on your digital assets to the individuals you choose, ensuring that they have access to them when you want them to. The company has patented two key features that make this possible: the executor key and the release timer. When you create an ADAM account, you are given a unique 32-digit alphanumeric executor key. This key is then shared with the person you designate as your executor, granting them access to your account.

However, to prevent unauthorized access while you're still alive, ADAM has implemented the release timer. If someone tries to enter the executor key into the executor portal while you're still around, you will be notified. That notification acts as a confirmation of life, and if you respond, their access will be denied. Only after your passing and the predetermined release timer duration has elapsed will your executor gain access to everything in your account.

In terms of pricing, ADAM offers a free version with limitations on the amount of data that can be uploaded, as well as advertisements. For users who require more storage and want to remove ads, there are paid options available. The monthly subscription costs $5.95, while the yearly subscription is priced at $49.99. Additionally, the company offers a lifetime subscription for just $299, which seems like a very reasonable and affordable option for those who want to secure their digital assets for the long term.

Sharing only what you think is relevant after you're gone


One of the key features of ADAM is that it allows you to manually upload specific photos, passwords, files, and other important digital assets that you want your executor to have access to. This ensures that they don't have to sift through irrelevant or unimportant content, making their job easier when you're gone. This feature is particularly useful when dealing with large amounts of data, as it allows you to curate and organize the most critical and personal items for your loved ones.

The significance of ADAM extends beyond personal memories and sentimental items. As Okoye points out, there are often important documents, such as insurance policies or legal papers, stored on our devices that would be crucial for our loved ones to access after our passing. ADAM provides a secure and organized platform for storing and sharing these critical documents, ensuring that they are readily available when needed.

Furthermore, ADAM offers the ability to bulk download all the content stored in the account. This means that once your executor gains access, they can easily download all the digital assets to their phone or computer, providing them with a comprehensive backup of your important files and memories.

Secure cloud storage service


One of the main concerns when it comes to storing data in the cloud is security. As users are likely to store their most important documents and memories on the platform, it is crucial to ensure that unauthorized individuals cannot access this sensitive information.

ADAM uses Amazon Web Services (AWS) for encryption and storage. The company and its employees cannot see anything that users upload onto their ADAM account, and they leave the encryption and security to AWS, a reputable and trusted company that deals with big companies. This ensures that the data is stored at rest encrypted, providing an additional layer of security.

Conclusion: Preserving your memory is easy with ADAM


In conclusion, ADAM is a groundbreaking app that addresses the issue of what happens to our digital assets when we die. By securely passing on our photos, videos, passwords, and files to designated individuals, ADAM ensures that our memories and important documents are preserved and accessible to our loved ones. With features like the executor key, release timer, and the ability to curate specific content, ADAM simplifies the process of transferring digital assets and provides peace of mind for the future.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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BeamO: The future of personal health monitoring unveiled @ CES 2024

2024-01-25

Withings has unveiled BeamO, a groundbreaking device that offers a thorough health assessment in just 60 seconds. This innovative gadget is equipped with four distinct sensors, each designed to evaluate different health parameters.

What is BeamO by Withings?


The device's main objective is to empower users to take control of their health. BeamO synchronizes data to a user-friendly application, allowing individuals to track their health records, log symptoms, and monitor medication adherence. The data can be easily shared with healthcare professionals via PDF or a link, facilitating remote consultations and enhancing diagnostic capabilities.

The versatility of BeamO is important, as it can be used by individuals, families, and those with chronic diseases. The device allows for the creation of multiple profiles, enabling users to track the health of their loved ones and provide longitudinal data to healthcare professionals. This proactive approach to health management aims to detect changes in baseline health and alert doctors to any concerning developments.

The BeamO device is designed to be user-friendly, with the app guiding the different positions for cardiac and lung sounds. This ensures that users can associate their recordings with the correct position, providing doctors with all the necessary information for diagnosis. The device can be used to measure heart sounds on the front of the chest and lung sounds on both the front and back.

BeamO: A revolutionary health checkup device


The first sensor is a one-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) that allows users to measure their heart activity. With an integrated algorithm, BeamO can detect atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. This feature provides users with valuable insights into their cardiac health.

The second sensor is a pulse oximeter, which measures respiratory health. It assesses the efficiency of the lungs in transferring oxygen to the blood. This information can be crucial in monitoring lung function and detecting any potential respiratory issues.

The third sensor is a digital stethoscope, enabling users to listen to their heart and lung sounds. This feature is particularly useful when assisted by a doctor, as they can identify any abnormal sounds that may indicate underlying health conditions. Users can either listen directly with headphones or live stream the sounds to their doctor, enhancing remote diagnostic capabilities.

The final sensor is a contactless temperature sensor. By scanning the forehead, users can obtain their body temperature within a few seconds. This feature is especially relevant in the current global health environment, as monitoring body temperature is a crucial step in identifying potential illnesses.

BeamO versus a fitness watch


One of the initial questions is regarding the difference between BeamO and an Apple Watch. While both devices utilize similar technology for detecting atrial fibrillation, BeamO offers additional features such as the integrated stethoscope, pulse oximeter, and temperature sensor. These features make BeamO an all-in-one health monitoring device, providing a more comprehensive health assessment compared to an Apple Watch.

Another important question revolves around the quality and regulatory approvals of BeamO. Withings are in the process of obtaining FDA approval and a CE mark for the European market. These regulatory steps ensure the device meets safety and efficacy standards. These approvals do not put it on the same level as a medical-grade device but do put it into a category of high-quality home health monitoring.

The BeamO device is being developed with input from doctors to ensure that it meets clinical standards. Doctors are reportedly happy to see a solution that can assist with telemedicine visits and improve the quality of stethoscope auscultation. The teams working on the BeamO device in Paris are striving to make it of clinical-level quality.

Conclusion: BeamO will be a great home health monitor


In conclusion, the BeamO health checkup device by Withings is a revolutionary product that aims to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of their health. By incorporating multiple sensors and a user-friendly application, BeamO empowers individuals to take control of their health and enhance remote diagnostic capabilities.

At this time, BeamO is still in the prototype stage. Withings is awaiting regulatory approvals before launching the device on the market, though is expected to be released in six to eight months and is poised to be another cool product from Withings. The estimated retail price at launch is $250, with no additional monthly fees for the accompanying application.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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Y-Brush: A unique toothbrush with a shape to match @ CES 2024

2024-01-25

Y-Brush, a novel electric toothbrush, boasts a Y-shaped design that enables it to clean all your teeth at once in a mere 20 seconds. The brainchild of Benjamin, the founder and CEO of Y-Brush, this invention was inspired by his curiosity about why teeth brushing hadn't been automated like other household chores. His goal was to make teeth brushing more efficient and ensure people brush for the dentist-recommended two minutes.

An electric toothbrush with a unique design


The Y-Brush uses ultrasound technology and requires the use of normal toothpaste. It has a built-in timer that alerts you when it's time to switch to the bottom row of teeth. The toothbrush has nylon bristles that are gentle on the teeth and provide effective cleaning. According to Y-Brush, using this toothbrush has resulted in less plaque and improved angles for brushing.

The toothbrush is already on the market and has received positive customer feedback. It has been available in Europe for a couple of years and recently launched in the US. The Y-Brush even has a rating of 4.2 or 4.3 on Trustpilot and has gained a significant number of users.

The price point for the Y-Brush varies depending on the model, with the featured model costing $99. There are also other models available for $79, and various packs with accessories can be purchased as well.

New Duo Brush coming soon


During CES 2024, it was announced that a new product called the Duo Brush is coming out next month. The Duo Brush is a pack that includes a longer handle and a head brush. The purpose of this new pack is to provide customers with options and allow them to try out both the traditional brush and the head brush.

The reason for including both options in the pack is that the company has noticed that some people are hesitant to switch to the head brush and prefer the more familiar traditional brush. By offering both options in one pack, customers can try them both out and decide which one they prefer.

An effective new approach to brushing


Jad Sassine, the Business Partnership Manager from Y-Brush, who personally uses the toothbrush, initially had doubts about its effectiveness. However, after using it and receiving positive feedback from their dentist, they became a believer in the product. They emphasize that even though the brushing time is significantly reduced to 20 seconds, the results are still impressive.

Conclusion: Y-Brush is a great brushing choice


In conclusion, the Y-Brush is an electric toothbrush with a unique design that allows for simultaneous brushing of all teeth in just 20 seconds. It uses ultrasound technology and has received positive customer feedback for its effectiveness in reducing plaque. The toothbrush is available in different models and price points, and the company has plans to launch new products, including a Universal Head Brush. To purchase your own, you can head to the company's website or their Amazon store. The website provides further information about the Y-Brush, including its features and benefits.

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Dyness keeps you powered during adventures and emergencies @ CES 2024

2024-01-26

A portable battery pack for camping is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay connected and powered up while enjoying the great outdoors. During CES 2024, Spencer Thompson from Dyness introduced their E-Pearl 1000W battery power pack, a product specifically designed for camping and other outdoor activities.

Portable battery pack for camping


The Dyness E-Pearl 1000W battery power pack boasts a capacity of 1000 watts, making it suitable for charging a wide range of devices such as laptops, phones, and even small appliances like tiny fridges. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport during camping trips. Thompson mentioned that it is a popular choice among campers in Utah, where camping is a common recreational activity.

The E-Pearl 1000W battery power pack stands out from other similar products in the market in a few ways. Firstly, it has a handle that makes it more comfortable and mobile compared to other models. Additionally, as Dyness is the manufacturer, they are able to offer the product at a competitive price point. The retail price for the Dyness battery power pack is around $900.

While the Dyness battery power pack is not designed to power an entire house, it is more than capable of providing enough power for a day or day and a half at a campsite. It can easily charge devices like cell phones and provide lighting without draining the battery too quickly. For those who require more power, Dyness also offers a larger model with a capacity of 1,500 watts.

A variety of power options


One of the standout features of the Dyness battery power pack is its versatile charging options. It includes a 60-watt USB, a normal USB 2.4 amp, and a quick-charge 18-watt port. It also has the ability to power devices using a standard power outlet. This means that you can power just about any device that you have or need, whether it be a small cooking surface while camping or a cell phone during a power outage.

As for charging the power pack itself, it has the capability to be charged through solar input, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for campers who want to harness the power of the sun. It can also charge using a wall socket or a DC plug, like in a car. With these options, you can power the pack off of a vehicle or generator in an emergency, or directly from the sun while out camping.

Conclusion: A powerful battery for outdoor adventures


In conclusion, the Dyness E-Pearl 1000W battery power pack is an excellent choice for campers looking for a reliable and portable power source. With its high capacity, versatile charging options, and competitive pricing, it offers a convenient solution for staying connected and powered up while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether it's charging devices, running small appliances, or providing lighting, the Dyness battery power pack is a valuable companion for camping trips and other outdoor adventures.

For those interested in purchasing the Dyness battery power pack or exploring their full line of products, their website is the place to go. The website showcases their range of portable battery packs and home battery systems, making it easy for customers to find the product that suits their needs.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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FlowIt: Transforming HR employee reviews and training @ CES 2024

2024-01-26

FlowIt offers revolutionary B2B SaaS software that is transforming the human resources landscape. This software is designed to enhance people development and minimize attrition costs. It tackles common HR challenges such as annual reviews, surveys, skill management, succession planning, and the integration of learning and management into everyday life.

HR software that reduces attrition


Traditionally, many companies have relied on inefficient methods like paper-pencil processes, Excel files, and Word files to manage personal development. These methods are perceived as inefficient, painful, and disliked by employees and leaders alike. FlowIt recognized the need for timely solutions that are agile, engaging, and integrated into the workflow with minimal effort.

FlowIt's system aims to make people development fun for users, engaging for leaders, and effective and powerful for the board and HR. By providing a user-friendly interface and streamlining processes, the software frees up time for leaders and HR professionals to focus on tasks they love. It also reduces the cost of attrition by addressing the pain points that often lead to employee turnover.

Simplifying the onboarding process


One specific pain point that FlowIt addresses is the onboarding process. Onboarding new employees involves paperwork, document verification, and ensuring they have the necessary resources and training. FlowIt's software offers a Learn Management System (LMS) that guides new employees through a comprehensive onboarding journey.

The system includes training, safety protocols, welcome messages from CHROs and COs, and all the necessary resources and links. By providing a structured onboarding experience, FlowIt aims to make new employees feel comfortable and engaged, reducing churn in the first few months.

Employee reviews are no longer a pain


FlowIt's software also tackles the annual review process, which often poses challenges for both employees and managers. Traditional methods, such as lengthy Word files with numerous questions, often result in employees disliking the process and the discussions being overlooked. FlowIt's digital system engages all employees, including frontline workers who are often underserved.

The software is designed to be agile, intuitive, and multilingual, ensuring everyone can participate. By capturing ongoing highlights and lowlights throughout the year, the software eliminates the need for employees to recall their achievements from months ago during the annual review. This ongoing process allows for a more accurate and comprehensive review, focusing on tangible actions rather than friction and pain points.

Brag sheet for employee evaluations


One specific feature of FlowIt's HR software that stands out is the "brag sheet" for employee evaluations. This feature allows supervisors to track and document the accomplishments and achievements of their team members on a quarterly basis. The supervisor provides each employee with a brag sheet, where they can highlight their accomplishments and successes during the quarter. This information is then stored in the employee's file and used to build their annual evaluation.

The brag sheet serves multiple purposes. First, it allows employees to showcase their achievements and contributions to the organization. This not only boosts their morale and sense of accomplishment but also provides a clear record of their performance over time. Second, it provides supervisors with valuable information when it comes time to make decisions about promotions and career advancement. By having documented evidence of an employee's accomplishments, supervisors have the ammunition they need to advocate for their team members and ensure that deserving individuals are recognized and rewarded.

Furthermore, the brag sheet feature helps solve the challenge of identifying top performers and differentiating them from underperformers. With a clear record of each employee's accomplishments, supervisors can easily identify the top workers and make informed decisions about promotions and career development opportunities. This eliminates the need for subjective evaluations and ensures that promotions are based on merit and documented evidence.

FlowIt's HR software takes the concept of the brag sheet even further by providing a digital platform where all feedback, results, and evaluations are stored and accessible to employees, managers, and HR professionals. The software uses AI to analyze the data and create dashboards that provide valuable insights for proactive decision-making. This includes career plans, recommendations for actions, and even anonymous employee feedback.

Conclusion: A simplified HR experience


Overall, FlowIt's HR software is revolutionizing the way companies approach people development and reducing attrition. By addressing pain points, streamlining processes, and providing an engaging and user-friendly experience, the software empowers HR professionals to effectively manage and develop their workforce. With the ability to measure audience engagement, host audio and video content, and provide detailed analytics, software platforms like FlowIt's offer a comprehensive solution for HR departments seeking to improve employee satisfaction, reduce attrition, and ultimately boost the bottom line.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.
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LumosTech: Improving sleep quality by harnessing light @ CES 2024

2024-01-26

A new technology has been developed by LumosTech that uses light therapy to help manage an individual's circadian rhythm, which is our body's internal clock that dictates when we feel sleepy or awake. Aligning our sleep schedule with this natural rhythm can lead to more restful sleep. Conversely, sleeping outside of these natural rhythms can negatively impact the quality of our sleep.

LumosTech aims to address the challenges faced by individuals who work night shifts. Working a night shift can be brutal, and can be compared to flying to China and back in terms of its impact on the body. To combat this issue, LumosTech has created a night shift module that helps users adjust to their night shift schedule.

Light therapy mask regulates circadian rhythm


The technology behind the light therapy mask is based on research conducted at Stanford University. This research demonstrated that short light flashes can be used to regulate the human circadian clock. The mask uses this light therapy to activate the photosensitive receptors in the eyes, which then send signals to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the brain. The SCN is a small region that controls the circadian clock. By stimulating the SCN with light flashes, the mask can effectively change an individual's circadian rhythm, influencing when they need to sleep or should be sleeping.

Dr. Biquan Luo, CEO of LumosTech, touches upon the impact of natural light on our sleep and mood. She highlights how living in regions with limited sunlight, such as Maine or Seattle, can affect sleep and overall well-being. The mask helps compensate for this lack of natural light by providing light therapy that mimics the effects of sunlight.

Using the LumosTech mask


To personalize the mask's functionality, users are required to answer a series of questions about their sleep schedules and biological profiles. Based on these answers, the mask can determine the user's chronotype, whether they are naturally inclined to be early birds or night owls. Depending on the user's specific needs, the mask offers different modules. For instance, there is a Beat Jetlag module for travelers, a night shift module for healthcare professionals, and a module for individuals experiencing seasonal affective disorder, which exposes them to morning light.

The mask allows users to adjust their bedtime and wake-up time, enabling them to adapt to changing schedules or overcome the effects of jet lag. The podcast host shares their own experience of working overnight shifts and the challenges of adjusting their sleep pattern when transitioning to a daytime shift.

Overall, the light therapy mask offers a promising solution for individuals struggling with sleep issues or disrupted circadian rhythms. By leveraging the power of light to regulate the internal clock, this technology has the potential to improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Conclusion: The power of light can improve sleep


In conclusion, the night shift module developed by LumosTech offers a promising solution for individuals who work night shifts and struggle with disrupted sleep patterns. By using light therapy to regulate the internal clock, the module helps users adjust to their night shift schedule and experience improved sleep quality. With further development and expansion of the module's capabilities, it has the potential to greatly benefit individuals with various sleep disorders and contribute to overall well-being.

The mask itself is described as incredibly light and comfortable to wear. It is currently only compatible with Apple devices and is priced at $298. The mask comes with a companion app that includes six modules to combat different types of sleep disorders. The company is also continuing to develop new modules to address various sleep issues.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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ilume tracks your dog's activity to prevent overfeeding @ CES 2024

2024-01-27

AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is a revolutionary technology that aims to help dog owners better understand and care for their pets. This technology, developed by ilume, utilizes artificial intelligence to track a dog's movements and accurately determine its caloric expenditure. By doing so, it can provide precise feeding recommendations, ensuring that dogs receive the perfect amount of food each day.

AI-powered dog tracking and feeding


The idea behind this technology stemmed from the founder and CEO of ilume, Craig Silbury's, passion for dogs and his realization that many dogs are overweight or obese. Silbury recognized that dogs' daily calorific requirements can vary significantly, even among dogs from the same litter with the same genetics, upbringing, and environment. Some dogs are naturally more active, while others prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. However, overfeeding is a common issue, leading to obesity, which is considered the leading cause of preventable death in dogs.

To address this problem, ilume developed a tracker that can recognize different types of motions, including walking, playing, scratching, and dreaming. By analyzing the intensity and frequency of these motions, the tracker can accurately determine a dog's caloric expenditure. This information is then used to provide feeding recommendations through an app and an automatic bowl. The bowl is equipped with scales and rings that light up, indicating the precise amount of food needed for each meal. If too much food is added, the bowl will signal the owner to remove the excess.

How the technology works


The tracking fob, which is attached to the dog's collar, plays a crucial role in collecting data. It recognizes various types of motions and sends this information to the cloud for analysis. By studying the dog's past behavior patterns, the system can build a comprehensive profile of the dog's nutritional needs for the day. Additionally, the technology has potential applications beyond tracking and feeding. It can also monitor a dog's health conditions, such as seizures or diabetes, and provide valuable information to veterinarians for better diagnosis and treatment.

What sets this technology apart is its ability to adapt to a dog's changing behavior patterns. It takes into account factors such as exercise levels, weather conditions, and the dog's individual preferences. For example, if a dog typically receives more exercise on weekends, the technology will predict and adjust the feeding recommendations accordingly. Similarly, if it's raining and the dog is less likely to go for a walk, the system will compensate for the reduced activity level. This ensures that the dog receives the appropriate amount of food each day, promoting a healthy weight and overall well-being.

While the specifics of the AI algorithms and technology used in this system are proprietary, the overall concept holds immense promise for dog owners. AI-powered dog tracking and feeding has the potential to revolutionize the way we care for our pets. By leveraging technology to understand a dog's individual needs and behavior patterns, this innovation can help prevent obesity, promote overall health, and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.

Conclusion: AI makes for a healthier dog


In conclusion, AI-powered dog tracking and feeding is an innovative solution that addresses the issue of overfeeding and obesity in dogs. By accurately tracking a dog's movements and using AI algorithms to determine its caloric expenditure, this technology provides precise feeding recommendations. The system adapts to a dog's changing behavior patterns, ensuring that it receives the appropriate amount of food each day. Additionally, the technology can monitor a dog's health conditions and provide valuable information to veterinarians. This groundbreaking technology has the potential to significantly improve the well-being of dogs and enhance the relationship between dogs and their owners.

The ilume pet tracker is currently available for pre-order. Current pre-orders are going for $300 with a limited number available. To pre-order yours, head to the company's website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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myrow: Transforming the Concept 2 rower with connected tech @ CES 2024

2024-01-27

myrow is a company that aims to transform the Concept 2 Rowing Machine into a connected fitness device. The CEO and founder, Gary Simpson, came up with the idea during the pandemic when he found himself using the Concept 2 machine more frequently. However, he felt that the machine's four-inch by four-inch monitor was boring and lacked engagement. He searched for apps that could enhance his rowing experience but found nothing that provided a fully integrated experience like a connected fitness bike.

myrow transforms Concept 2 into connected fitness


Recognizing the need for a more immersive and interactive rowing experience, Simpson decided to build a tablet add-on product for the Concept 2 Rowing Machine. The myrow tablet is a 22-inch tablet that offers all the content and features typically found in a connected fitness machine. By connecting the tablet to the Concept 2 machine's monitor, users can access a more engaging and intuitive interface. The tablet displays workout data in a meaningful and useful way, eliminating the need to navigate through multiple buttons on the Concept 2 monitor.

One of the key advantages of the myrow tablet is its ability to provide real-time analytics and performance data. This feature is particularly beneficial for rowers who want to improve their technique and track their progress. Rowing is a learned technique that requires proper form and stroke metrics. By following along with instructors and mimicking their movements, users can learn and refine their rowing technique. The tablet provides visual cues, audio instructions, and even form guidance, such as the force curve, to help users optimize their workouts.

Additionally, myrow offers the option for coaches to deliver specific workouts through the Create Your Own Workout Custom Workout feature. Users can also share their workouts with friends, allowing for a collaborative and supportive fitness community. This flexibility in workout options and the ability to share and receive workouts from others adds to the overall versatility and inclusivity of myrow.

Beyond its instructional features, the myrow tablet also offers a range of other options for experienced rowers who prefer non-video workouts. The application includes preset workouts, the ability to create custom workouts, group rowing sessions with friends who also have the tablet, and training plans. This versatility caters to rowers of all skill levels and preferences.

Training virtually with friends


One of the key features of myrow is its ability to facilitate virtual rowing with friends. Through an internet connection, users can row together and see each other's stats and metrics on the screen. This allows for friendly competition and the ability to set up group rows at any time and date of their choosing. This feature is particularly useful because it enables rowers to continue training year-round, even in adverse weather conditions such as winter with ice. Instead of relying on traditional biometric trackers in a lab setting, myrow provides real-time metric data for each individual person.

Conclusion: myrow enhances the at-home rowing experience


Overall, myrow's goal is to enhance the Concept 2 Rowing Machine's capabilities and provide users with a connected fitness experience. By integrating a larger and more interactive tablet, myrow transforms the Concept 2 into a fully immersive and engaging fitness device. Whether users want to follow along with instructors, track their performance data, or simply enjoy a challenging workout, myrow offers a comprehensive solution for rowers of all levels.

As for pricing, the myrow tablet with the mounting arm is priced at $499, and there is a monthly subscription fee of $29.99. At launch, the tablet will offer around 85 video workouts, a couple of hundred preset workouts, and the ability to create custom workouts. myrow plans to expand its video workout library over time.

To sign up for myrow, interested individuals can visit the website and join the mailing list. While orders are not being taken yet, they will be available by the end of February. The release date for the product is dependent on the arrival of the boat from overseas, but the company is confident that they will be able to deliver the product to customers by mid to late April.

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Invoxia Minitailz: AI-powered pet tracker monitors health @ CES 2024

2024-01-27

Clément Moreau, CEO of Invoxia, shares the latest on upgrades to their classic pet trackers at CES 2024. Their 3rd generation Minitailz pet tracker includes AI technology in the device, cloud, and application. The device has been redesigned to be small and lightweight, can attach to any type of pet collar, on any size dog, and has a battery life of 2 to 4 weeks, depending on activity levels.

Invoxia 3rd-gen pet trackers barking up the right tree


The Invoxia app is compatible with iPhone or Android phones, and not only tracks the location of the pet but also monitors its health and activity levels. Metrics such as heart rate, breathing, and disease detection are available, providing valuable information for dog owners who want to ensure their pets are healthy and happy. The app also tracks the pet's activity level, helping owners understand the amount of exercise their dog needs to maintain happiness.

Minitailz pet tracker health monitoring features


One of the key features of the Invoxia device is its ability to monitor a dog's heart rate. In a thorough study conducted on more than 200 dogs, the device was found to have a 97% accuracy rate in extracting data compared to the data that a vet could check. This high level of accuracy is impressive and reassures pet owners that their dog's heart rate is being accurately monitored.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, the pet trackers also track a dog's activity levels. Similar to a Fitbit for humans, the device helps pet owners understand how much exercise their dog is getting daily. This information is beneficial for dog owners with busy schedules who may not be able to provide their dogs with as much exercise as they would like. By knowing their dog's activity levels, pet owners can make adjustments to ensure their dog is getting the appropriate amount of exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

More than just an activity tracker


The Minitailz pet tracker can also help detect diseases in dogs. This is particularly helpful for pet owners who have dogs with behavioral or age-related problems. Leaving their home can be difficult for these individuals, but with the Invoxia device, they can have peace of mind knowing that their dog's health is being monitored.

The Minitailz is not only beneficial for pet owners but also for the dogs themselves. By providing valuable insights into a dog's health and activity levels, pet owners can make informed decisions to keep their animals healthier and happier. This device helps pet owners understand their dog's needs and allows them to provide the appropriate care and attention.

Pet tracking beyond the backyard


Invoxia's Minitailz pet tracker works in works in 40 different countries, enabling pet owners to track their pets even when traveling abroad and providing innovative solutions for pet owners worldwide. In addition, the upcoming introduction of a cat-specific version of the device further expands the reach of Invoxia's technology, catering to a wider range of pet owners.

Invoxia also produces trackers for other services such as cars, motorbikes, bikes, and even for tracking children or elderly people. Unlike Bluetooth-based trackers like AirTags, Invoxia's trackers use GPS and GSM technology, allowing for countrywide and worldwide tracking.

Minitailz pet tracker: How to fetch it


Minitailz is available for purchase on Invoxia's website, Amazon, and other retailers. It has a retail price of $99 and requires a monthly subscription of $8.50.

Conclusion: Minitailz can help you keep your pet healthy and happy


Invoxia's AI-powered pet tracker is a game-changer in the world of pet health monitoring. With its accurate heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and disease detection capabilities, this device provides pet owners with valuable insights into their dog's well-being, helping assure pet owners that their dogs are receiving the appropriate care and attention to keep them healthy and happy. Invoxia's commitment to innovation and its availability in multiple countries further solidify its position as a leader in the pet health monitoring industry.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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Lexilens: Breaking down barriers and transforming dyslexia @ CES 2024

2024-01-28

A groundbreaking product has been developed to enhance reading capabilities for people with dyslexia. This product, called Lexilens, is a pair of electronic glasses powered by a battery and features active lenses that interact with the brain's visual processing, not just the eyesight. By adjusting and fine-tuning how the brain deciphers signals from the eyes, these glasses facilitate a more lucid and smooth reading experience for those with dyslexia.

ABEYE, the company behind these innovative glasses, aims to address the challenges faced by dyslexic individuals in reading and learning. Dyslexia is a common learning disability that affects the ability to read, write, and spell. It can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and difficulties in academic and professional settings.

Glasses that improve dyslexia reading


The idea behind Lexilens is based on a scientific discovery made in 2017 by an academic at a university. The discovery highlighted certain vision mechanisms that cause crowding and make reading difficult for dyslexic people. Over three years of research and development, the glasses were designed to leverage this discovery and reverse engineer the vision process to improve reading fluency.

The technology behind the glasses involves active lenses that hash the light with specific parameters and settings. These settings are calibrated to the individual wearer using a smartphone during the initial setup. The glasses then actively filter the light to eliminate the crowding effect and provide a clear and detached view of letters, making reading easier and more understandable for dyslexic individuals. Lexilens is such a major advancement that the glasses received an Innovation Award at CES, indicating recognition and validation of their effectiveness. The glasses are lightweight, weighing only 35 grams, and are available in three sizes: small for kids, medium, and large.

The importance of improved understanding


What sets these glasses apart is their ability to not only improve reading ease but also enhance comprehension. Michael Kodochian, CEO of ABEYE who developed Lexilens, emphasizes that dyslexic individuals often struggle to understand what they read due to the noisy input caused by the crowded vision. By eliminating the crowding, the glasses provide a clearer input to the brain, reducing cognitive load and allowing for better multitasking and comprehension.

While it is important for all ages, addressing dyslexia in children is especially important, as they often face additional challenges and stigmatization. By providing a solution that is easy to use and does not require a smartphone, Lexilens aims to empower dyslexic children and help them succeed in school.

Kodochian also mentions that the technology has been integrated into a computer screen or monitor, eliminating the need for wearing glasses. This development further expands the accessibility and usability of the technology for dyslexic individuals.

An easy to use solution for dyslexia


Adjusting Lexilens to the individual wearer is a straightforward process that involves connecting them to a smartphone via Bluetooth and using a dedicated app to tune the settings. The wearer can answer a series of questions and choose values that correspond to their specific needs, allowing for a personalized and optimized reading experience.

Similar to an eye exam, users can select their optimal settings by comparing different options. Once the settings are chosen, they are stored in the glasses, eliminating the need for a smartphone. This user-friendly approach makes the glasses accessible to individuals of all ages, including children.

Conclusion: Lexilens makes reading and comprehension easier for those with dyslexia


In conclusion, ABEYE introduces a groundbreaking product - glasses that improve reading for individuals with dyslexia called Lexilens. These glasses leverage scientific discoveries to modify the brain's interpretation of visual signals, eliminating crowding and improving reading fluency and comprehension. With recognition and awards, the glasses offer a promising solution for dyslexic individuals, providing them with a clearer and more enjoyable reading experience. Lexilens is available now from the company's website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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Stacksync: Simplify data syncing, streamline CRM integration @ CES 2024

2024-01-28

Real-time database integration has become essential in today's data-driven business environment, offering the capability to access and analyze data promptly. However, integrating databases with customer relationship management (CRM) systems has historically been complex and time-consuming, demanding extensive coding and development efforts. Real-time data integration has emerged as a revolutionary concept reshaping the business landscape. Leading this transformation is Stacksync, a company at the forefront of real-time data integration. The company's product allows for faster integrations and syncing of data, giving all aspects of a company access to crucial data they wouldn't traditionally have access to.

Real-time data integration for CRMs: Revolutionizing business operations


Traditionally, linking a CRM with various databases and systems involved extensive coding and time-consuming efforts. Developers had to invest months in crafting intricate workflows to ensure seamless data sharing. This not only consumed time but also incurred significant costs. Stacksync, however, introduces a groundbreaking no-code solution, enabling the connection of CRMs and databases within just five minutes.

But how does Stacksync achieve this code-free integration seamlessly? The company encapsulates complexity into a user-friendly interface, delivering robust data without the need for developers to manually resolve database or CRM issues. Stacksync guarantees a real-time, two-way sync, ensuring data is consistently up-to-date and accurate.

The implementation time for Stacksync is impressively fast, with businesses able to integrate the platform within 10 days, even for projects that typically take six months. This swift turnaround time underscores the efficiency and user-friendliness of Stacksync.

A different approach to handling data


Stacksync's real-time and two-way sync capabilities set it apart from other integration solutions. By transforming the database into a read-and-write interface, Stacksync facilitates the seamless flow of real-time raw metrics, computed metrics, and AI-processed data insights to CRM systems. This eliminates the need for complex workflows and significantly reduces the time and budget required for integration.

Stacksync also includes real-time batching, which optimizes API usage and reduces costs. Instead of numerous API calls for each modification to the database, Stacksync batches these changes, making only a few API calls. This enables businesses to modify large amounts of data while consuming fewer API credits, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Real-time data improves the customer experience


The implications of real-time data integration for CRMs are profound. Businesses gain access to the most current customer information, allowing for immediate action. For instance, a B2B SaaS company can monitor a customer's platform interactions within the last 24 hours, identify usage issues, or detect cart abandonment. This real-time data enables direct engagement within the CRM or marketing platform, eliminating the reliance on additional data sources.

But, the platform also gives access to this data to areas of the company that would not have had it previously. In our previous example, if the customer had called for support, the agent likely would not know that there had been a cart abandoned the day before. Having this info, and the contents of that abandoned cart could help the agent solve the customer's issue that previously would have been a void.

Furthermore, the impact extends to artificial intelligence (AI). Real-time data analysis enables AI algorithms to identify customer preferences, interests, and behaviors, allowing businesses to tailor their offerings and marketing messages. This not only reduces reliance on Salesforce but also amplifies the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.

Who is Stacksync designed for?


The use cases for Stacksync's real-time data integration platform are diverse, primarily benefiting companies with 30 to 250 employees actively utilizing CRMs and maintaining sales teams. Real-time data access empowers businesses to make informed decisions, personalize marketing efforts, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, Stacksync's platform is scalable, meaning it can handle large data sets and millions or billions of records. This makes it suitable for companies of all sizes, from small startups to massive enterprises with extensive Salesforce instances. The platform ensures that real-time data integration remains efficient and effective, regardless of the scale.

One of Stacksync's key advantages lies in its ability to handle large and unstructured datasets. As businesses accumulate vast amounts of data in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), Stacksync allows users to input this data into its platform seamlessly. The platform then writes the data back into the database, enabling businesses to leverage AI for processing and analyzing data, extracting valuable insights without the need to touch the API.

Conclusion


To summarize, Stacksync serves as a game-changer by making real-time database integration easy for businesses. The platform's no-code solution simplifies the integration process, saving time and money. Access to real-time data empowers businesses to make informed decisions, personalize marketing efforts, and enhance customer satisfaction. With Stacksync's scalability and customizable features, businesses of all sizes can harness the power of real-time data integration, positioning themselves for success in the data-driven era, especially as AI continues to evolve. Stacksync stands as a leader in providing businesses with the essential tools to thrive in this data-centric revolution.

To learn more about Stacksync, to get a demo, or to sign up for yourself, head over to their website.

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ElliQ: AI companion to alleviate loneliness in older adults @ CES 2024

2024-01-28

Intuition Robotics is a company that has created an AI-driven companion named ElliQ. This innovative product is designed to combat feelings of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. It aims to promote health and activity, supporting seniors as they continue to live independently.

AI companion for elderly adults


Loneliness among the elderly is a significant issue in the country. It has been declared a public health crisis by the Surgeon General of the United States, as it surpasses obesity and drug abuse as the leading cause of death among older adults. It is emphasized that there is a shortage of young people who can spend quality time with the elderly on a daily basis.

The impact of loneliness on the health of elderly individuals is immense. Loneliness can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being, and it is often underestimated. The story of a customer whose husband passed away after 65 years of marriage is shared to illustrate the profound impact of loneliness. ElliQ's ability to greet her, compliment her appearance, and encourage her to go out and be socially active has transformed her life, giving her a reason to get dressed and engage with the world.

Intuition Robotics recognized the potential for technology to address this issue and created ElliQ as a solution. However, they wanted their product to be more than just a monitoring device or a prompt-based AI assistant like Alexa. They aimed to create a true friend and companion for the elderly. To achieve this, the device spends material amounts of time with the older adult, remembers past conversations, initiates conversations, and helps the individual achieve their own goals towards healthier aging and social connectivity.

Unlike prompt-driven AI, ElliQ actively engages in conversations and prompts the individual for information and action. It classifies and remembers conversations, using them to create future interactions. For example, it may ask about sleep quality, remind the individual of previous pain, and suggest breathing exercises. It can also take physical or digital actions, such as creating tailored stress reduction exercises or arranging video conferences with loved ones or healthcare professionals.

ElliQ versus wearables


Wearables can be a great way to track health statistics in kids and adults. However, older adults are less likely to wear these devices, partially because they are unaccustomed to them and partially because they might simply forget to put them on.

While ElliQ is not a wearable device itself, it can be seen in a comparable place in the sense that it interacts with the user and provides a physical presence. Nevertheless, the hope is that as wearables have become more popular among younger people, ElliQ can provide similar capabilities for older people while adding the benefit of a companion's personality.

A powerful but affordable companion


One might assume that an AI-enabled robot like ElliQ would come with a high price tag. However, CEO Dor Skuler reveals that ElliQ is surprisingly affordable, with a monthly charge between $50 and $60. This makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals and families who are seeking a solution to combat loneliness among their elderly loved ones.

The affordability of ElliQ is further enhanced by the fact that many local state and government organizations are funding the product. In certain areas, such as New York and most counties in Florida, ElliQ can be obtained for free, paid for by agencies like the Office for the Aging. Additionally, Medicare and Medicaid companies are also distributing ElliQ to their population, recognizing the positive impact it can have on mental health and overall well-being.

Conclusion: ElliQ can help older adults feel less lonely


In summary, AI-enabled robots like ElliQ have been shown to effectively alleviate loneliness among the elderly. The importance of tackling this issue is underscored, and the cost-effectiveness and easy accessibility of ElliQ are high. ElliQ offers more than just assistance; it provides companionship, support, and a proactive presence, becoming a genuine friend and confidant for older adults. Through its interactions and features, ElliQ not only enhances mental well-being but also has the potential to positively influence physical health and overall life quality for the elderly. To learn more about ElliQ or to get one for yourself or a loved one, check out the company's website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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myFirst: Real tech solutions for kids in a grown-up world @ CES 2024

2024-01-29

In today's digital age, technology plays a crucial role in our lives, and it has become an integral part of our daily routines. However, the benefits and opportunities offered by technology should not be limited to adults only. Children, too, deserve access to real tech that empowers them to explore, learn, and create. myFirst has embraced this reality and developed tech products that are fully functional but designed for kids.

The birth of myFirst


myFirst is a company dedicated to creating a kids' tech ecosystem. The inspiration behind this venture was the realization that there was a gap in the market for real technology designed specifically for children. The founders, who were tech-savvy individuals themselves, embarked on a mission to empower kids by providing them with devices, apps, and a social platform that mirrors what adults can do with technology.

Kid-friendly camera with social sharing


One of the innovative products offered by myFirst is a kid-friendly camera with social sharing capabilities. This camera is designed specifically for children, with a focus on simplicity, durability, and safety. The company understands that children have unique needs and considerations when it comes to technology, and they have created a camera that addresses these needs effectively.

The camera is lightweight and easy to use, with simple buttons and a user-friendly interface. This ensures that children can operate the camera without confusion or frustration. Additionally, the camera is built to withstand the rough handling that is often associated with children. It is robustly built and durable, making it suitable for active kids who may drop or throw it unintentionally.

One of the standout features of this camera is its social sharing capabilities. Children can choose which photos they want to share on social media platforms, giving them control over their digital presence. The camera automatically syncs photos to both the SD card and the cloud, allowing for easy access and sharing. This feature encourages children to engage responsibly with social media and teaches them the importance of privacy and consent.

In terms of pricing, the camera is reasonably priced at around $100 US. This makes it accessible to a wide range of families and ensures that quality technology is not limited to adults. myFirst understands the importance of affordability when it comes to empowering children with tech devices, and they have made it a priority to offer their products at a reasonable price point.

The camera is designed to be cloud-based, meaning that it relies on Wi-Fi connectivity for storage and access. While the camera itself may have limited storage capacity, the cloud-based system allows for easy uploading and access to photos. This ensures that children can capture and store as many memories as they want without worrying about running out of space.

A Smartphone with smart limitations


myFirst also offers a wearable smartphone for kids, which is 4G driven and allows for even more connectivity and functionality. The smartphone is designed to be durable and waterproof, making it suitable for active kids who may engage in water-related activities. The smartphone operates on an eSIM, eliminating the need for an open hole and ensuring that it is water-resistant.

In terms of connectivity and plans, myFirst has partnered with AT&T to offer a $12 per month plan that includes unlimited data and calls. This allows parents to have peace of mind knowing that their child's connectivity needs are taken care of without any additional costs or limitations.

Empowering features and parental control


myFirst's devices are accompanied by a social platform that allows children to connect with their peers and share their creations. However, the company recognizes the importance of parental intervention and provides robust parental control features. Parents have control over who can contact their child and can moderate the content their child sees. This ensures a safe and secure online environment for children while still allowing them the freedom to explore and connect with others within predetermined circles of trust.

The social media platform associated with the camera and smartphone can be accessed through the smartwatch or downloaded as an app on Apple or Android devices. This allows children to engage with the platform using devices they may already have, such as smartphones or tablets. Parents have control over their child's account and can determine how much information is shared, ensuring privacy and safety.

The importance of empowering children through real technology


The concept of "real tech for kids' empowerment" holds significant importance in today's society. Empowering children with age-appropriate technology not only enhances their digital literacy but also fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By providing children with real tech devices, they can actively participate in the digital world, learn about technology's potential, and develop the necessary skills to thrive in the future.

The response to myFirst's products has been positive, with a strong presence in North Asia and a growing interest in the US market. The company's commitment to quality, durability, and affordability has resonated with parents and children alike, making them a trusted brand in the industry.

Conclusion: A safe, fun, appropriate approach to tech for kids


myFirst's commitment to providing real tech for kids' empowerment is a commendable initiative in the tech industry. By bridging the gap between adult-oriented technology and children's needs, the company enables children to explore their potential, express their creativity, and engage responsibly with technology.

Empowering children with real tech devices and a safe social platform not only prepares them for the digital future but also allows them to make meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving world of technology. By providing a safe and user-friendly platform for children to engage with technology and social media, myFirst is empowering the next generation to become responsible digital citizens. Their commitment to quality and affordability ensures that children from all backgrounds can benefit from their innovative products.

To learn more about myFirst or to purchase one of their products, head to their website or check out their Amazon store.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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IoTize: French startup's journey into IoT-connected designs @ CES 2024

2024-01-29

IoTize, a French startup, provides a no-code solution for IoT (Internet of Things) through a small module. Steve Gessenhoven, the marketing communications manager for IoTize, shares that the company initially supplied tools for designing embedded systems. As they began to receive customer inquiries about IoT-connected designs, they recognized that their embedded systems technology could streamline the design process and remove the need for complex coding.

No-code IoT solution with module


The core of the IoTize solution is a module that can be plugged directly into a microcontroller to retrieve and transmit data without modifying the original code. To demonstrate the capabilities of the module, the company's designers integrated it with a robot. They configured the module with the addresses where the desired data resides, allowing them to control the robot without any coding required.

The core of the module itself is its I/O (input/output) interface. I/O is used to connect the module to the debugging port of the microcontroller of an electronic board, in the provided example this was the robot, providing full access to all the memory. However, for final products, where leaving a debugging port open is not feasible, the same pins reserved for the debugging port can be used to create a secured access based on the module's configuration.

Software to streamline the process


In addition to the module, IoTize provides a simple configuration environment and a mobile app that serves as an off-boarded human-machine interface. The mobile app allows users to create a dashboard with different controls associated with the variables identified in the system. For example, buttons can be assigned to turn left, turn right, move forward, or move backward. The app also includes settings for different sensitivities and a monitoring screen that displays data from sensors, such as a radar that detects obstacles.

The main goal of the no-code solution is to provide a plug-and-play, configuration-only approach. However, there are instances where additional coding may be required for more advanced functionalities. To address this, IoTize provides an environment called IoT App Creator, which runs on a PC and offers a drag-and-drop interface for associating variables with buttons, sliders, and graphs. This environment also includes a data flow editor that allows users to combine variables and apply conversions, as well as add Java code for more specialized tasks.

Once the user interface is created and configured, IoTize's app builder, based on the Ionic toolset, generates native apps for iOS, Android, or web apps that can run on a PC browser. These apps can also be used as cloud dashboards to bring data to the cloud. The generated apps contain all the necessary code, allowing users to further customize and work with the code if desired.

Conclusion: A small device with a robust impact on IoT


When it comes to pricing, IoTize offers a competitive range for their industrial modules. The development kit for these modules is priced at $49, making it accessible for businesses and individuals looking to experiment and develop IoT applications. For small volumes of the device, the price per piece is around $15, which further makes it an affordable option for industrial applications.

For those interested in learning more about IoTize's platform and its offerings, the company's website is a valuable resource. It provides information on all their product lines, recently released software, and other relevant details. The website serves as a one-stop destination for anyone looking to explore and engage with IoTize's solutions.

Overall, IoTize's industrial modules offer a practical and cost-effective solution for businesses in need of IoT integration. With their availability through popular distributors and competitive pricing, these modules present an accessible option for a wide range of industrial applications. IoTize's commitment to expanding their product line and providing a comprehensive ecosystem further solidifies their position as a leader in the IoT industry. Their no-code solution and user-friendly approach make it easier for individuals and businesses to harness the power of IoT technology and drive innovation in their respective industries.

In conclusion, IoTize's no-code IoT solution offers a streamlined approach to designing, implementing, and retrofitting IoT-connected systems. The solution empowers users to create innovative IoT applications more efficiently by eliminating the need for extensive coding. With its user-friendly configuration environment and mobile app, IoTize provides a comprehensive ecosystem for developing and controlling IoT devices. This solution has the potential to revolutionize the IoT industry and enable a wider range of individuals and businesses to harness the power of IoT technology.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
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Neewer illuminates content creation with lighting and sound @ CES 2024

2024-01-29

Cost-effective lighting and audio equipment are essential for content creation, be it for YouTube streaming, podcasting, or other types of media production. Brandon Wolfe, the director of public relations for Neewer, shares the company's commitment to offering budget-friendly lighting solutions. These products empower creators to display their skills and creativity to a global audience.

Affordable lighting gear


Neewer offers a range of lighting products that are not only affordable but also powerful enough for content creation. One notable feature of their lights is their full RGB capability, which allows for a wide range of colors and lighting effects. Additionally, these lights have both hot and cold options, providing flexibility for different lighting needs. The lights also come with cold shoe mounts, allowing users to easily snap them together to create a larger lighting setup.

What sets Neewer apart is its innovative approach to lighting. They have designed their lights to be modular, similar to Lego blocks, enabling users to build and customize their lighting grids according to their specific requirements. This flexibility is especially useful in situations where the lighting conditions are challenging or when more powerful lighting is needed.

Furthermore, Neewer has also taken into consideration the convenience of its users. For instance, their small stick lights are not only mountable but also magnetic, allowing them to be easily attached to metal surfaces. This feature makes them ideal for on-the-go situations, as they can be separated and stored in pockets when not in use.

New audio equipment for creators


In addition to lighting gear, Neewer has also ventured into the audio department with their new Lavalier microphones. The dual microphone set offers two mics with standard and magnetic clips, allowing you to attach them to any clothing. They each offer the ability to connect a wired microphone to them, allowing for a more versatile experience.

The receiver can connect to nearly any device in a variety of ways. It can connect to a phone via USB-C or Lightning, or to a camera using the line-out connection. Being able to swap the receiver between devices with ease means being able to use it for different styles and scales of production. You can also monitor the receiver with headphones.

As with other mics in this category, Neewer is working on accessories to allow you to repurpose the mics. For example, other products in the category offer the ability to turn it into a handheld microphone. These products are not yet on the market, but are in development.

These microphones have received positive feedback from reviewers and influencers for their exceptional performance. Despite their high quality, Neewer has managed to keep the price point of these microphones at an affordable $129, which is significantly lower than competing brands in the market.

The affordability of Neewer's lighting and audio gear is a significant differentiator for the company. While other brands may offer similar products, they often come with a much higher price tag. Neewer aims to eliminate the barrier of entry for creators by providing high-quality gear at an accessible price point. They believe that showcasing one's talents should not be limited by the size of their wallet.

Conclusion: Neewer helps creators with affordable lighting and audio gear


In conclusion, affordable lighting and audio gear, such as those offered by Neewer, are essential tools for content creators. These products not only provide the necessary illumination and sound quality but also offer flexibility, convenience, and affordability. Neewer's commitment to offering high-quality gear at accessible prices allows creators to focus on their craft without worrying about breaking the bank. With Neewer's lighting and audio solutions, creators can confidently showcase their talents and creativity to the world.

The lighting products shown range from $26 to $200 and the CM28 microphone costs $129. To pick up your own Neewer products, head to their website or Amazon store.

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Nimagna: Unleashing the power of AI in video communications @ CES 2024

2024-01-30

Video communication has become an integral part of our lives, especially in recent times when remote work and virtual meetings have become the norm. However, traditional video calls and presentations often lack the engagement and connection that comes with in-person interactions. That's where Nimagna, a Swiss startup, comes in, revolutionizing video communications with the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Revolutionizing video communications with AI


Nimagna, founded by Stephan Stadler, a computer science expert with a background in computer graphics, aims to bring the capabilities of professional TV broadcasts to video communications for everyone. Stadler's previous company, LibraVision, was responsible for the graphics seen on ESPN and Fox Sports broadcasts. Now, with Nimagna, he is applying his expertise in visualization and camera analysis to transform video communications.

The goal of Nimagna is to eliminate the dullness and lack of engagement in video presentations. Stadler understands that when using platforms like Zoom or Teams for presentations, the presenter often becomes small on the screen, losing the human connection with the audience. Nimagna's solution is to create an immersive and captivating video experience without the need for extensive setups or gear.

How Nimagna's software works


Using AI, Nimagna's software allows users to be cut out of their background environment and placed on a three-dimensional virtual stage. This stage can be augmented with various content, such as PowerPoint slides, images, and videos. The movements and transitions on this virtual stage are all controlled by AI, creating a dynamic and visually appealing presentation. What's remarkable is that this can be achieved with just two static cameras, eliminating the need for expensive pan-tilt-zoom cameras.

The output of the Nimagna software appears as a webcam, making it compatible with popular video conferencing platforms such as Teams, Zoom, and Webex. Users can also use their favorite recording devices to capture the content. The software enables live streaming of presentations during video calls and allows users to record and share their content on social media platforms or professional networks like LinkedIn.

The quality of the Nimagna software's output is a key focus for the company. As computer graphics experts, they strive to deliver high-quality visuals. While there may be some pixelation or artifacting, especially in more challenging environments, the software generally provides a solid and visually appealing experience. The founders acknowledge that achieving pixel-perfect quality similar to what is seen on professional broadcasts is challenging but state that for 99% of use cases, Nimagna's output is more than sufficient.

The possibilities are literally endless


The possibilities that Nimagna presents are truly game-changing. It allows individuals and organizations to have access to the kind of professional studios and setups that were once only available to big-budget productions. The ability to create visually stunning presentations and engage audiences on a deeper level opens up new opportunities for businesses, educators, and content creators.

Imagine being able to stand inside a multi-million dollar studio, controlling the virtual stage with AI, and delivering a presentation that captivates your audience. Nimagna's technology makes this possible, democratizing video communications and empowering individuals to create high-quality content without the need for extensive resources.

Conclusion: Nimagna makes presentations more engaging


In conclusion, Nimagna's AI-powered video communication technology is revolutionizing the way we engage with virtual presentations. By bringing professional-grade capabilities to everyone, Nimagna empowers individuals and organizations to create visually stunning and engaging content. As we continue to navigate the world of remote work and virtual interactions, innovations like Nimagna's offer a glimpse into the future of video communications.

The software is available today for Windows and macOS. The company offers a few pricing options starting at free and going up to Enterprise licensing for large corporations and more custom needs. To learn more or download the software, head over to their website.

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Linxura Smart Controller: A game-changer for smart homes @ CES 2024

2024-01-30

Linxura, a smart controller for home automation, can manage up to 52 smart devices, including lights, shades, and door locks. The controller is equipped with a screen that can simultaneously display four devices. By rotating a wheel, one can navigate between different devices. It provides various control options, such as a single click for activation, a double click for deactivation, or a toggle function. For instance, the volume of a speaker or the intensity of a light can be adjusted by clicking and rotating the wheel.

Smart controller for home automation


The Linxura Smart Controller can directly control a wide range of devices, and it can also be integrated with popular smart home platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. Additionally, the controller will soon support Samsung SmartThings, Apple HomeKit, and the Matter Protocol. This compatibility ensures that users can control thousands of devices, with more being added regularly.

To configure the controller, users need to download the Linxura app and connect the controller to their Wi-Fi network. The app supports direct control of certain devices like Sonos, Philips Hue, and LIFX. For devices not directly supported, users can set them up through other platforms like Alexa or Google Home. Users can create actions or routines to control their devices by connecting the app to these platforms.

In terms of battery life, the Linxura Smart Controller offers a long-lasting battery that ensures users can rely on it for extended periods without needing to constantly recharge. This is especially important for those who heavily rely on their smart devices and want a controller that can keep up with their daily needs.

A vast array of compatible devices


One of the standout features of the Linxura Smart Controller is its compatibility with various platforms. Users can connect and control their smart devices from different brands and platforms, making it a versatile and convenient tool for managing their smart home. Whether it's controlling lights, thermostats, security cameras, or other smart devices, the Linxura Smart Controller can seamlessly integrate with them all.

Additionally, the Linxura Smart Controller boasts extensive device support. This means that users can connect and control a wide range of smart devices, ensuring that they can manage all aspects of their smart home from a single device. The ability to control multiple devices from one central hub simplifies the user experience and eliminates the need for multiple apps or controllers.

Flexibility in your hand or on the wall


Another exciting feature of the Linxura Smart Controller is its programmable capabilities. Users can customize and create their automation routines, allowing them to set specific actions or schedules for their smart devices. Whether it's turning on the lights at a certain time, adjusting the thermostat based on the weather, or activating security features when leaving the house, the Linxura Smart Controller offers flexibility and personalization in home automation.

The controller is designed with convenience and flexibility in mind. It can be mounted on a wall or placed on a tabletop, and it has a backlight for easy visibility in the dark. The device has a long battery life, lasting up to three months on a single charge.

The company is also working on a new feature that provides real-time feedback on device settings. For example, if a user adjusts the thermostat, the controller will display the current temperature percentage. This feature enhances the user experience and allows for precise control over devices.

Conclusion: An inexpensive controller for your whole smart home


Overall, the Linxura Smart Controller offers a comprehensive solution for controlling and managing smart devices in the home. Its compatibility with various platforms, extensive device support, and programmable features make it a convenient and powerful tool for home automation. With its user-friendly interface and long battery life, the Linxura Smart Controller provides a seamless and efficient way to control and customize the smart home experience.

The Linxura Smart Controller is priced at $99.99 and comes in multiple colors. To purchase one for yourself, check out their website.

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grivix is Revolutionizing Heavy-Duty Vehicle Charging @ CES 2024

2024-01-30

Fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles is a revolutionary concept that aims to address the challenges faced by industries such as mining, ports, and long-haul transportation. Marc-Andre Beck, the CEO and founder of grivix, discusses the need for fast charging solutions for heavy-duty vehicles and introduces their innovative technology.

Fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles


Currently, heavy-duty vehicles like big caterpillars in mines or vehicles in ports are not electrified. Even if they are electrified, the existing infrastructure takes a significant amount of time to charge them. However, in industries that operate 24/7, such as mines and ports, vehicles need to be charged quickly, within minutes, to ensure uninterrupted operations. This is where grivix comes in with their fast charging solution.

grivix has developed a charging system that can charge heavy-duty vehicles at a speed of up to 6 MW, which is double the speed of filling gasoline into a vehicle. This is more than 10 times faster than Tesla's supercharger. The charging process is fully automated, with the vehicle being guided to the charging spot with a precision of 50 centimeters based on ultrawideband technology. Once the vehicle is in position, the system disables the drivetrain, and the connector is automatically recognized and plugged in. The system can deliver up to 4,000 amps, enabling even the charging of large 250-ton caterpillars in a few minutes.

The autonomous aspect of grivix's technology is a significant feature. The charging system utilizes ultrawideband technology to guide the vehicle to the charging spot with a precision of 15 centimeters. This technology allows for autonomous charging, but it also integrates with the vehicle's display system, enabling manual control if required.

Immense speed without battery damage


One of the key questions is how fast charging can be achieved without damaging the battery. Beck explains that the technology is compatible with lithium titanate batteries, which are capable of being charged at 10C. The difference in battery chemistry allows for the incredible speed without damaging the batteries. If you were to try the same thing with a standard lithium-ion battery, it would destroy the chemicals and potentially create a fire.

For regular lithium batteries, the maximum charging speed is 3C, which translates to about 20 minutes for a typical 20 to 80% charge. However, sophisticated cooling systems are required to prevent overheating during the charging process. These batteries are expensive but allow for rapid charging, making them an acceptable expense for industries that need to prioritize speed over cost.

Who is grivix designed for?


The target demographic for grivix's fast charging solution is industries that rely on heavy-duty vehicles for their operations. Mining companies, ports, and long-haul transportation companies are among the potential customers who can benefit from this technology. The ability to charge heavy-duty vehicles quickly and efficiently will significantly reduce downtime and increase productivity in these industries.

While grivix is currently in the proof of concept phase, they plan to roll out their charging stations in controlled environments such as mines and ports in the coming months. Regulatory considerations may delay their deployment in public areas. However, the company aims to ramp up production and make their fast charging technology more widely available by the end of the year.

Conclusion: Ultra-fast charging for a focused market


In conclusion, fast charging for heavy-duty vehicles is a game-changing technology that addresses the need for rapid charging in industries that operate 24/7. grivix's innovative solution offers charging speeds of up to 6 MW, fully automated charging processes, and integration with autonomous and manual control systems. While still in the proof of concept phase, grivix aims to roll out their charging stations in controlled environments and eventually make its technology more widely available. This advancement in fast charging technology has the potential to revolutionize heavy-duty industries and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility.

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2Pi Optics' cutting-edge lenses bring the future into focus @ CES 2024

2024-01-31

Innovative optics technology is a cutting-edge field that aims to revolutionize the way we capture and perceive images. The technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated, an MIT spin-off startup, focuses on creating lenses for sensors, cameras, and consumer electronic devices like AR/VR headsets. The optics technology has been under development for the last decade, with 2Pi Optics working on this specific lens technology for the last three years.

How 2Pi Optics' lenses work


The company's focus is on achieving high-resolution and crisp images in sensor arrays used by various manufacturers. 2Pi Optics does this by leveraging wafer-scale semiconductor manufacturing capabilities for high-volume, low-cost, and scalable flat optics production and integration.

The 2Pi Optics lens replaces the conventional stack of lenses with a single, thin piece of glass known as metasurface flat optics to overcome the fundamental limitations of traditional optical systems. This transformative technology preserves and can even improve optical performance, while achieving smaller form factors, lighter weights, better accuracy, and lower costs in the process.

The design prioritizes discrete wavelengths, which means that the lenses are optimized for specific colors or wavelengths. For instance, they can isolate infrared wavelengths, while disregarding other colors, which is particularly useful in AR/VR products where color accuracy may not be critical.

Traditional lenses sometimes sacrifice stability and clarity for specific features or functions. However, the technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated aims to overcome these limitations by providing precise sensor images without compromising either. 2Pi Incorporated has rolled out prototypes and samples, and partnered with sensor module integrators who will integrate their lenses into their sensors and sell them to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Apple, Matter, and Microsoft.

Advantages of single glass lenses


One of the key advantages of this innovative optics lens technology is its cost-effectiveness. By utilizing a single piece of glass and employing low-cost manufacturing techniques typically used for computer chips, the production cost is significantly reduced. Assembly and packaging costs are also minimized, making the technology not only performance-enhancing but also economically viable.

While the lenses are made from thin glass, they are designed to be tough and durable. They provide a wider field of view and are unaffected by variations in temperature. They can be directly bonded onto image sensors, creating a monolithic piece that improves the overall ruggedness of the device. 2Pi Optics lenses can be used in a variety of consumer electronics devices, in industry automation, and automotive technologies.

Conclusion: 2Pi Optics brings improved performance and reduced costs into clear view


In conclusion, the innovative lens technology developed by 2Pi Incorporated is disrupting optics in the best way possible. By replacing conventional stack lenses with a single, thin piece of glass, this technology delivers high performance and reduced size, weight, power and cost, enhancing the overall consumer experience. With partnerships in place and a product launch on the horizon, it is an exciting time for the future of optics lens technology. While currently in prototype phase, a full product launch is expected in 2024.

For more information on the technology, you can email info@2pioptics.com or visit 2Pi Optics' website for more information.

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.lumen: A new era of navigation for the visually impaired @ CES 2024

2024-01-31

Technology has the power to transform the lives of people with disabilities, providing them with greater independence and opportunities. Haptic feedback glasses for the visually impaired are a groundbreaking development designed to uplift the lives of these individuals. Cornel Amariei, the CEO and founder of .lumen, is committed to creating glasses that mimic the primary functions of a guide dog.

Glasses for blind with haptic feedback


One of the major issues facing blind people is the limited availability of guide dogs, with only 28,000 dogs serving the 40 million blind people worldwide. The cost of training a guide dog, which amounts to around $70,000, and the extensive effort required from blind individuals make guide dogs a non-scalable solution. To address this issue, .lumen has developed glasses that utilize self-driving technology and a patented haptic feedback interface.

The .lumen glasses function similarly to a guide dog, pulling the user's head instead of their hand. The haptic feedback creates the sensation of something holding and pulling the head in the direction the user needs to go, avoiding obstacles and ensuring safety. The company has been testing with over 250 blind individuals internationally and has shown the glasses to be incredibly effective, even surpassing the capabilities of guide dogs.

In terms of functionality, the .lumen glasses can be directed to guide the user to specific locations or provide general guidance. The glasses compute obstacle positions a hundred times per second, ensuring seamless navigation. The haptic feedback on the forehead provides intuitive guidance, allowing blind individuals to navigate their surroundings without the need for a physical guide.

Why haptic feedback instead of audio alerts


The decision to incorporate haptic feedback into the glasses was driven by the desire to provide non-intrusive yet informative feedback. Blind individuals heavily rely on their hearing, so audio feedback was deemed unsuitable. By utilizing haptics, .lumen ensures that the feedback is intuitive and easily understandable. The head was chosen as the feedback location due to its natural inclination to turn and gather information about the surroundings.

Similar to guide dogs, which do not bark when there is an obstacle but rather guide the individual around it, the glasses use haptics to gently steer the user. The glasses are engineered to handle complex outdoor challenges, such as distinguishing between the sidewalk and the road, through extensive AI training and data analysis.

The decision to develop glasses with haptic feedback stemmed from the desire to address the limitations of guide dogs and provide a scalable solution for the millions of blind individuals who cannot have access to a guide dog. Amariei's passion for improving the lives of blind individuals is evident in his dedication to creating a product that not only replicates the capabilities of guide dogs but also exceeds them in some cases.

The origins of .lumen


Amariei shares his personal experience growing up in a family of people with disabilities and how it inspired them to create technology specifically for this community. He mentions that he comes from Eastern Europe, specifically Transylvania, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

However, he also recognized the potential of technology to address these challenges. Coming from a background in automotive, specifically autonomous driving, he understood the capabilities of technology and saw an opportunity to create something better.

Conclusion: Haptics make for a safer and scalable experience


It is important to note that, in terms of price, it is not intended for the blind individuals themselves to pay for it. Instead, they are exploring reimbursement and subsidy programs, such as those found in Europe, to ensure that the technology is accessible and affordable for those who need it.

In conclusion, the development of glasses for the blind with haptic feedback represents a significant advancement in assistive technology. These glasses have the potential to transform the lives of blind individuals by providing them with a reliable, intuitive, and scalable solution for navigation and obstacle avoidance. With further advancements in technology and increased accessibility, glasses like Lumen's have the power to empower blind individuals and enable them to live more independent and fulfilling lives.

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Revolution Cooking: The future of heating technology @ CES 2024

2024-01-31

Everything is smart these days. Phones, watches, automobiles, and even refrigerators. So, what else is out there? Well, a few years ago Revolution Cooking answered that question with a toaster. That's right a smart toaster. This year, the company has taken what they learned with the Revolution Toaster and applied it to something bigger: the Macrowave Smart Oven. We stopped in and had a chat with Tom Klaff with Revolution Cooking at CES Unveiled.

Revolution Cooking's InstaGLO technology


Revolution Cooking's InstaGLO technology is a groundbreaking innovation that aims to revolutionize the way we cook and heat food. The technology was developed by Tom Klaff, the co-founder and CEO of Revolution Cooking, who sought to address the common issues faced in traditional toasters, ovens, and microwaves.

The inspiration behind InstaGLO came from Klaff's observation of the slow heating process in toasters and ovens, as well as the lackluster taste of microwave-cooked food. He identified the Calrod, which is a thick wire made of nichrome, as the culprit behind these problems. The Calrod takes a long time to heat up, resulting in prolonged toasting and preheating times, as well as subpar food quality in microwaves.

Creating the Revolution Toaster


To overcome these challenges, Revolution Cooking invented InstaGLO, a new heating system that offers faster and more efficient heat transfer to food. Unlike the Calrod, InstaGLO heats up rapidly, allowing for quicker toasting and cooking times. This core technology was first integrated into a toaster in 2019, resulting in the launch of the popular Revolution Toaster, which quickly became the number-one-selling toaster on Amazon.

The Revolution Toaster features a sleek design with a touchscreen interface, making it both visually appealing and user-friendly. Users have praised its ability to toast bread quickly and effectively, thanks to the InstaGLO technology.

Beyond toasters: Introducing the Macrowave


Building on the success of the Revolution Toaster, Revolution Cooking has now introduced a new product called the Macrowave. The Macrowave combines the best qualities of a microwave, an air fryer, and a conventional oven into a single appliance. By retrofitting the core heating system of InstaGLO into a larger cavity, Revolution Cooking has created a versatile cooking appliance that can cook food faster, better, and tastier.

The Macrowave boasts a one cubic foot interior, making it comparable in size to a standard microwave. However, it offers much more functionality and cooking options. With its intuitive touchscreen interface, users can operate the Macrowave as a best-in-class microwave, air fryer, oven, baking system, rotisserie system, or even a pizza oven. The appliance also comes with preset recipes, allowing for easy and convenient cooking.

One of the key advantages of InstaGLO technology is its ability to heat and crisp food simultaneously. Unlike traditional ovens that require preheating, the Macrowave can achieve both heating and crisping without the need for preheating. This is made possible by the efficient heat transfer of InstaGLO, which utilizes standard 120 volt, 15 amp power commonly found in homes.

The Macrowave's versatility and efficiency make it an ideal appliance for various cooking needs. It can handle complex recipes that require timed heating and crisping, such as puff pastry. With its smart oven capabilities, users can program their own recipes and even perform tasks that typically require both microwaving and oven preheating in a single step.

Revolution Cooking's InstaGLO technology is a game-changing innovation that addresses the limitations of traditional toasters, ovens, and microwaves. By utilizing a new heating system that heats up rapidly and offers efficient heat transfer, Revolution Cooking has created appliances that can toast bread faster, cook food better, and provide a superior culinary experience. With the success of the Revolution Toaster and the upcoming launch of the Macrowave, Revolution Cooking is truly redefining the way we cook and heat our food.

Macrowave Smart Oven launching in Q4


While the Revolution Toaster is already available on the market and has gained significant popularity, the Macrowave is still in production. However, with its impressive features and capabilities, it is poised to be another game-changer in the cooking appliance industry.

Revolution Cooking is set to launch their new oven, the Macrowave Smart Oven, in the fourth quarter of this year. The company sees a natural fit for their product in the extended stay hotel market, where guests often need the ability to cook everyday food without relying on delivery services like DoorDash. The Macrowave Smart Oven is designed to take up very little space in a suite, making it an ideal option for hotels.

However, Revolution Cooking also recognizes the potential for their oven in other markets. They mention interest in the micro markets and commercial side, particularly in front of house settings. Additionally, they believe that people who use the oven in hotels will want to have it in their own homes as well. As a result, Revolution Cooking plans to market and sell the Macrowave in the residential market.

In terms of timing, Revolution Cooking expects both the consumer and commercial versions of the oven to be available by the end of the year. This suggests that the development and production processes for both versions are relatively similar.

In Conclusion


As for pricing, Revolution Cooking plans to crowdsource information in the next couple of weeks to gauge demand and determine the appropriate price point. They estimate that the oven will cost between $1,200 and $1,800, including all accessories and updates. The oven is a connected system, making it an evergreen product that can be continuously updated.

Overall, the Macrowave Smart Oven is making exciting advancements in heating technology. Revolution Cooking's InstaGLO technology offers a rapid heating system with efficient heat transfer, addressing the limitations of the toasters, ovens, and microwaves that we currently use. With the success of their Revolution Toaster and the upcoming launch of the Macrowave Smart Oven, they are well on their way to revolutionizing the overall cooking process.

To stay updated on the launch and Kickstarter campaign, Revolution Cooking encourages interested individuals to visit their website. They plan to make an announcement about the Kickstarter soon and will provide updates on their website. If you're interested in owning a smart toaster of your own, you can pick one up on Amazon.

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Introducing Minitailz: The small smart collar for dogs @ CES 2024

2024-02-03

Keeping track of your dog's health needs can be a challenge. They are incapable of telling you directly what is happening in their bodies - they can only give suggestions and hints. However, with technology, we can give our dogs a voice in their health situations. With the newest generation of Minitailz by Invoxia, dog owners get this and a lot more, like GPS tracking and activity tracking. This innovative device offers a range of features that are beneficial for both dog owners and their furry companions.

Smart collar for dogs with GPS and health tracking


One of the most significant features of the Minitailz is its health-tracking capabilities. It can measure a dog's resting heart rate and respiratory rates, providing valuable information about their overall health. Additionally, the device can diagnose a common heart condition in dogs called atrial fibrillation (AFib).

AFib is a type of arrhythmia that affects about 10% of dogs and becomes more common as dogs age. The Minitailz can detect AFib early, allowing owners to seek treatment before it becomes a more serious issue. This feature is especially important because dogs cannot communicate their symptoms, making it challenging for owners to identify health problems. Around 25% of dogs develop AFib by the age of 12. This highlights the importance of having a device like the Minitailz to monitor a dog's health and catch potential issues early on.

The Minitailz also has activity tracking, which allows owners to monitor their dog's daily activities. It can track activities such as walking, trotting, running, eating, and drinking. This feature provides owners with a detailed understanding of their dog's daily routine and helps them ensure their pet is getting enough exercise and staying healthy.

The Minitailz utilizes AI technology to analyze the collected data and identify abnormalities and variations. It compares the dog's data to its own baseline from previous months, weeks, and days. It also compares the data to other dogs within the same breed group. This comparative analysis helps determine if there are any deviations from normal patterns.

Active and passive GPS tracking


The GPS tracking feature allows dog owners to keep track of their pets and prevent them from getting lost. This is especially useful for dog owners who live in areas with a high risk of their dogs running away. It also includes geofencing, which allows owners to set up virtual boundaries for their dogs. If the dog goes beyond these boundaries, the owner receives a notification. This feature is particularly useful for preventing dogs from running away or getting lost.

Regarding the device's functionality, it has live tracking capabilities but conserves battery life by defaulting to batch processing. The device triggers notifications when there is something of interest, such as the dog leaving the predefined zone. The data is stored in the device's cache until it is ready to be processed and sent.

In terms of design, the Minitailz has been made smaller and more comfortable to fit both small and large dogs.

Conclusion: A small device to help your dog's health


In conclusion, the Minitailz is a smart collar for dogs that offers GPS tracking, activity tracking, and health tracking features. It provides dog owners with valuable information about their pet's whereabouts, daily activities, and overall health. The device's ability to diagnose atrial fibrillation and its geofencing capabilities make it a valuable tool for dog owners concerned about their pet's safety and well-being.

The device is priced at $99, and there is a monthly subscription fee of $8.50. The device is available for purchase on the Invoxia website or their Amazon store.

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WAVS Custom earphones: Custom-fit for transformative audio @ CES 2024

2024-02-03

Creating custom-fit earphones using 3D scanning technology has revolutionized the way we experience audio. At CES 2024, we spent some time with Ric Hoke, the energetic inventor of WAVS Custom, who has revolutionized the 3D scanning process for creating custom-fit earphones. The WAVS Custom app has immensely simplified the scanning process, completely eliminating the need for a visit to an audiologist for a fitting, and making it simple and convenient to get the best earphone fit.

WAVS Custom app brings custom fitting 3D scanning tech right to your phone


The WAVS Custom app is key to the snug customized fit of the company's earphones and in-ear monitors. Using the their patented mobile 3D scanning technology you can perform the scanning process anytime, anywhere, with your phone in under 90 seconds. The app collects biometric data that is turned into a 3D model, which is then used to create a set of custom-fit earphones tailored specifically to the shape of your ears.

Unlike traditional 3D scanning methods that require scanning around the head, the WAVS Custom process uses the data collected from your face ID, which consists of infrared dots, making the 3D scan as quick and simple as taking a photo.

From your phone to your ear: These custom earphones offer state-of-the-art comfort and quality


After the 3D model of your ear is created, it goes to the WAVS Custom lab for processing. The company has perfected their 3D printing manufacturing method to ensure that the earphones are biocompatible and comfortable. The earphones are sleek and fit naturally in the ear, creating a fantastic seal and comfort.

The earphones are equipped with advanced audio technology and features, and can be used with a Bluetooth hookup or directly connected to a device. Additionally, WAVS Custom is releasing a first-ever custom fit, custom design gaming headset for mobile gaming and the Quest.

Conclusion: WAVS Custom brings custom Fit and clear audio as close as your phone


Custom-fit earphones created by 3D scanning have transformed the way we listen to audio, providing a personalized and immersive experience. The way WAVS Custom has transformed 3D scanning technology has revolutionized custom-fit earphones that can now be designed for everyone, satisfying different preferences and budgets.

Each set of WAVS is digitally processed and handcrafted here in the USA, and the company prides itself on providing a state-of-the-art product and a personalized experience for all their customers through their open-door approach to doing business, where every order is personal to them.

WAVS Custom earphones and in-ear-monitors range in price from $199 to $699, depending on the number of drivers and the level of customization desired - and there's a lot of customization possible, from a variety of attractive colors and finishes to an Eddie Van Halen design.

You can learn more about the WAVS Custom patented 3D Scanning technology, and get an inside look at these high tech earphones and in-ear monitors at the WAVS Custom website where you can also ask questions, check out the FAQ and order your own custom audio gear.

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Wacom's range of tablets for every artist, beginner to pro @ CES 2024

2024-02-03

Wacom, a leading provider of digital drawing tablets and styluses, always has something new and exciting to show off during CES. This year, the company showed off products for beginners and professionals. Sarajean Chung, a professional artist who works with the company, demonstrated the products through her artwork.

Sarajean's artwork on Wacom


Before diving into Wacom's offerings, Sarajean discusses her artwork displayed in the background. She confirms that the artwork is indeed hers and praises the software called Rebell, which she uses to create vibrant and realistic digital art. She also mentions the compatibility of Rebelle with Wacom tablet screens, which enhances the overall experience for artists.

Scott shares his personal experience using a Surface tablet with a Wacom pen and expresses his enjoyment of the halfway point between digital and traditional art. Sarajean agrees and emphasizes the beauty of the blend between the two mediums. She explains that the company strives to create an authentic feeling for artists, bridging the gap between traditional and digital art.

Wacom's tablet technology


The Wacom Cintiq Pro 22, a 4K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, is the new kid on the block. It is the first product line from Wacom to feature a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience for artists, animators, and filmmakers. The improved color depth and true color support of the display, making it ideal for professionals in various creative industries.

The texture of Wacom pens, which provide a tactile experience similar to using traditional art tools, is the next focus of their technology. This feature is popular with artists and the nib of the stylus is an added bonus as it has an interesting texture. The surface of the tablet is matte, which adds a natural scratchiness that resembles drawing on paper.

A new type of pen that offers customization options was on display. The pen comes with weights that can be placed at the front or back, depending on the user's preferences. Additionally, the pen can be fitted with different grips and buttons, allowing for a more user-friendly experience tailored to individual habits.

The pen is confirmed to be completely passive, meaning it does not have a battery inside. Instead, it relies on the tablet for power and communication. Different Wacom product lines may have different pen technologies, but some are compatible with each other. The company also offers a slim solution for those accustomed to thinner pens, as well as a grip for those who prefer a larger size. This versatility ensures that artists can find a comfortable and familiar drawing experience.

The benefits of Wacom technology


One of the key advantages of these devices is their smaller size, which enhances the overall sharpness and precision of the pen strokes. This is particularly important for artists who require fine details in their work. Additionally, the devices are super lightweight, making them easy to carry and use on the go.

Another notable feature of these devices is their touch functionality. This allows users to interact with the screen directly, providing a more intuitive and natural drawing experience. The touch sensitivity is very smooth, further enhancing the user's ability to create precise and fluid strokes.

Conclusion: Wacom adds to an artist's toolset


In conclusion, Wacom's new pen technology offers artists and designers a range of customizable options for a more authentic and user-friendly drawing experience. With their latest products, such as the Cintiq Pro 22 and Wacom One, the company aims to cater to the needs of professionals and beginners alike. By combining traditional and digital art elements, the company continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression in the digital age. Interested individuals can find more information about these products through the company's blog and community sites. These platforms serve as excellent resources for communication and provide users with all the necessary information they need to make informed decisions.

Both the Cintiq Pro 22 and Wacom One are readily accessible to consumers. The Cintiq Pro 22 is available for $3000 and the Wacom One retails around $100. To purchase one for yourself, you can head to the Wacom website, the company's Amazon store, or one of several other retailers.

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Sennheiser: Innovative sport earbuds with biometric sensors @ CES 2024

2024-02-06

The fitness industry has witnessed a technological revolution in recent years, with innovative tools emerging to enhance workout tracking and performance. A notable development in this domain is the advent of sports earbuds equipped with biometric sensors.

Great audio and biometric tracking together


Sennheiser, in collaboration with fitness company Polar, has developed what they term the "world's best sport headphones" - the MOMENTUM Sport. These earbuds are uniquely designed with two biometric sensors - a heart rate sensor and a core body temperature sensor. The integration of these sensors enables fitness enthusiasts to track their workouts with greater accuracy and depth. By monitoring heart rate and core body temperature, users can gain valuable insights into their performance and exertion levels during exercise.

The sensors are strategically placed inside the earbuds, leveraging the unique characteristics of the inner ear. The inner ear, being quiet, dark, and muscle-free, provides a stable and consistent environment for biometric readings.

These sports earbuds offer a level of versatility and convenience not found in traditional fitness tracking devices. They can be used independently or in conjunction with a sports watch, accommodating a variety of athletic activities and personal preferences.

The earbuds also boast several additional features that set them apart. These include wireless charging, noise cancellation, and a built-in 3-axis accelerometer. The accelerometer allows users to control their earbuds even when wearing gloves or ear warmers, simply by tapping their cheek.

Set to be released in April, the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds are priced at $329. While this may be considered a premium price point, the extensive feature set justifies the investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality and comprehensive workout tracking capabilities.

MOMENTUM True Wireless 4: A blend of affordability and quality


The company also introduced its new MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds. These earbuds promise a premium audio experience at a price point that balances affordability and quality. The decision to set the price at $299 reflects Sennheiser's commitment to delivering value to its customers without compromising on the quality of the product.

The design of these earbuds has been enhanced over its previous models, particularly the antenna design, resulting in improved connectivity. This is a critical feature for wireless earbuds, as a stable and reliable connection is vital for a seamless listening experience. Moreover, the earbuds come with a noise-canceling feature, ensuring that users can immerse themselves in their music without external distractions.

Conclusion: Great sound and features from Sennheiser


In conclusion, the introduction of the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds with biometric sensors marks a significant advancement in fitness technology. These earbuds offer a comprehensive solution for workout tracking, with features such as heart rate monitoring and core body temperature sensing. The strategic placement of biometric sensors ensures accurate readings, while additional features like wireless charging and noise cancellation enhance user experience.

The new Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds, priced at $299, present a compelling option for audio enthusiasts. With their enhanced antenna design, noise-canceling feature, and numerous other improvements, these earbuds are set to deliver a superior listening experience. Their affordability broadens their reach to a wider consumer base, ensuring that more people can enjoy the high-quality audio that Sennheiser is renowned for.

As for availability, the earbuds will be accessible on the Sennheiser website, allowing customers to easily purchase these earbuds directly from the manufacturer. Sennheiser is also actively engaging with its audience, promising to provide more information as the launch date nears.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
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RevComm: The self-coaching tool for effective communication @ CES 2024

2024-02-06

For people who spend their lives in one-on-one communications, such as salespeople, analyzing those communications can be a real challenge. Taking notes during a call can make you sound distracted. Trying to remember how the call went will always return false results. Plus, some metrics are nearly impossible to analyze as a person with our limited perception. This is where RevComm comes in.

AI software analyzes and visualizes conversations


RevComm is a revolutionary tool that is transforming the way businesses communicate and interact with their customers. This software utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze voice communication in various forms, including phone conversations, web meetings, and face-to-face interactions.

The primary goal of this software is to provide self-coaching tools for sales representatives to increase their sales conversion rates. By analyzing and visualizing the conversation between sales reps and customers, the software can provide valuable insights and feedback on various aspects of the conversation.

The software is designed to analyze conversations in various settings, including phone conversations, web meetings, and face-to-face interactions. For phone conversations, the software can easily capture audio and analyze it. For web meetings, platforms like Zoom and Teams can be integrated with the software to analyze the conversation. For face-to-face interactions, a special mic device or a mobile device can be used to capture and analyze the conversation.

The features of RevComm


One of the key features of RevComm is sentiment analysis. It can track the emotional transition of both the sales rep and the customer throughout the conversation. This information can be crucial in understanding the effectiveness of the communication and identifying areas for improvement.

Additionally, the software provides metrics such as talk-to-listen ratio, number of silences, interruptions, and conversation back and forth. These metrics can help sales reps gauge their communication style and identify any patterns or areas that need improvement.

The software also analyzes the pacing of the conversation. It recognizes the importance of pacing in sales and emphasizes the correlation between brain speed and speech rate. By analyzing the pacing of the conversation, the software can help sales reps ensure that they are speaking at an optimal speed that allows the customer to understand and engage without getting bored or frustrated.

In terms of content analysis, the software can identify key topics discussed during the conversation, who mentioned them, and when they were mentioned. This feature allows sales reps to easily navigate through the conversation, make comments, and extract and share relevant parts of the conversation.

Furthermore, the software transcribes and summarizes the entire conversation, allowing sales reps to read back through a conversation to ensure they didn't misunderstand or misspeak about a topic. This feature also saves time and effort in creating detailed summaries of the conversation.

Conclusion: RevComm makes analyzing sales conversations easier


In terms of cost, the software is priced at $69 per user per month. This includes the analysis engine, phone integration, and user interface. Compared to the cost of IP phones, which typically range from $60 to $70 per user per month, the software offers additional value by providing advanced conversation analysis capabilities.

RevComm is a powerful tool that is revolutionizing the way businesses communicate and interact with their customers. By providing valuable insights and feedback on the effectiveness of communication, this software helps sales reps improve their sales conversion rates and enhance customer interactions. With features such as sentiment analysis, content analysis, and conversation pacing analysis, this software provides a comprehensive understanding of the conversation dynamics and enables sales reps to make data-driven decisions. To learn more, check out the company's website.

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safe-living: Elder care powered by AI motion detection @ CES 2024

2024-02-06

Aging in place is becoming more common, but it hasn't gotten much safer. One company that is tackling this challenge is safe-living, which utilizes radar-based technology to detect human motion and provide peace of mind to family caregivers of seniors. The device aims to allow seniors to stay in their homes for as long as possible by automatically calling for help in situations of helplessness.

Smart home device for seniors


The safe-living device is designed specifically for seniors who live alone or with minimal assistance. It consists of a custom radar system that can detect even the tiniest movements, up to a tenth of a millimeter. This radar system works by sending out signals and receiving the reflections, similar to how a bat uses echolocation. The device is capable of differentiating between human motion and motion caused by pets, ensuring accurate detection.

The device operates by creating a mesh network with other devices in the home, allowing them to communicate and understand the movement patterns of the senior. This network is powered by artificial intelligence, which analyzes the data collected by the radar system and identifies any variances or potential concerns. It can detect situations that may indicate helplessness or danger, such as falls or prolonged periods of inactivity.

Radar-based device detects human motion


The technology behind safe-living relies on radio waves to sense even the slightest movements within a room, detecting motion patterns and analyzing them using artificial intelligence (AI) models. The AI continuously monitors motion patterns and alerts caregivers when there is a significant change or variance from the normal pattern.

The device not only detects motion but also has the capability to sense vital signs. This means that it can determine if someone is simply sitting or lying down, even if they are not actively moving. This feature allows the device to detect situations of immobility, such as after a fall, and automatically call for help.

In case of a potential emergency, the device automatically calls for help. However, there is a grace period of 15 minutes during which the user can confirm their well-being and cancel the alert. If no confirmation is received within the grace period, the configured alert and contact will be informed about the situation. For individuals who may not be familiar with smartphones, the device can work without a smartphone and offers alternative methods of alerting, such as a phone call to a landline to check on the individual's well-being.

In addition to the automated alerts, the safe-living device also includes a digital SOS button within its mobile app. This button allows users to trigger an alert in case of an emergency. For example, if a senior is walking outside and suddenly feels unwell, they can simply click on the SOS button on the app, and an alert will be sent to their family members. The alert includes the real-time location of the person, ensuring that help can be quickly dispatched if needed.

A mobile app for peace of mind


One of the key features of the safe-living device is its mobile app, which allows family members to stay connected and monitor the well-being of their loved ones. The app provides unlimited user access, allowing multiple family members to be connected to the device. This feature is particularly valuable for family members who live far away from their senior loved ones. For example, a son living two and a half hours away can use the app to check on his retired parents. He can see if they are at home and capable of moving, providing peace of mind and reassurance.

In addition to monitoring the well-being of seniors, the app also includes a burglary alarm feature. This allows seniors to activate the alarm when they go on holiday, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Intelligent nightlight with emergency alert


One of the key features of the safe-living device is its intelligent nightlight functionality. This feature aims to address the issue of falls that often occur at night when seniors get up to go to the bathroom in the dark. The device is equipped with LED components in its user interface (UI), which act as a nightlight that automatically lights up when the user gets up at night. This helps seniors orient themselves in the dark and reduces the risk of falls.

The brightness of the LED components is described as being similar to the nightlights found in hotels. It is bright enough to provide sufficient illumination for seniors to navigate their surroundings in the dark. This feature is especially useful for seniors who have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

Conclusion: A small device to make seniors healthier and safer


The safe-living device is easy to install, requiring no configuration or complex setup. It is a plug-and-play system that can be installed by the user themselves. The device is available for purchase online and comes with a one-time cost of $249. Additionally, there is a subscription plan available for $12 per month, which provides access to the device's full range of functionalities. You can buy yours on the company's website.

Overall, the safe-living device offers a comprehensive solution for ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors living independently. Its radar-based technology, AI analysis, and mobile app functionality make it a valuable tool for family caregivers. With its easy installation and affordable pricing, the safe-living device aims to provide a solution that is accessible to all, offering peace of mind and enhancing the quality of life for seniors and their families.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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Chat3D.ai: Making 3D modeling accessible to everyone @ CES 2024

2024-02-07

Generative AI, also known as generative adversarial networks (GANs), is a revolutionary technology that has the ability to create 3D models from simple prompts or descriptions. This cutting-edge technology is being utilized by a company called Chat3D.ai, which aims to provide efficient and user-friendly solutions for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering.

Generative AI creates 3D models


The concept behind generative AI is to use artificial intelligence algorithms to generate new content based on existing data. In the case of Chat3D, the AI is trained to understand and interpret prompts or descriptions provided by users, and then it generates 3D models accordingly. This eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming manual 3D modeling processes, making it a game-changer for industries that heavily rely on 3D models.

Traditionally, creating 3D models has been a time-consuming and complex process. Designers had to manually create every aspect of the model, which could take up to 60-70% of the time to market when developing a game or other virtual scenes. However, with the introduction of generative AI, this process is being revolutionized.

The development of Chat3D and its implementation of generative AI has been a relatively quick process. The company was founded in France less than a year ago and has already made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This rapid progress is a testament to the dedication and innovative mindset of the team behind Chat3D.

Who is Chat3D intended for?


Chat3D's target audience primarily consists of clients in the gaming industry who are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency. By using generative AI, these clients can save hours of work by simply prompting the software and letting the AI create 3D models in a matter of seconds to minutes. This not only saves time but also allows for greater creativity and flexibility in designing virtual environments and characters.

Although Chat3D is currently focused on the gaming industry, its applications are not limited to just gaming. Customers can also use the software for 3D printing purposes. For individuals who own a 3D printer but lack expertise in 3D modeling, Chat3D offers a simple and efficient solution. Users can describe what they want or even upload an image, and the software will generate a 3D model that can be printed.

What sets Chat3D apart is its accessibility. It is not limited to experts or professionals in 3D modeling. Anyone, regardless of their level of expertise, can use Chat3D to express their creativity. Whether it's a child, a grandparent, or someone with no prior knowledge of 3D modeling, they can easily describe what they want or even upload an image, and the AI will transform it into a 3D model.

Conclusion: Chat3D.ai speeds up development of games and more


The pricing model for Chat3D is designed to be affordable and flexible for customers. Users are given credits based on their consumption, and they can spend these credits according to their needs on the website. This ensures that customers only pay for the services they use, making it a cost-effective solution for individuals and businesses alike.

In conclusion, generative AI has revolutionized the way 3D models are created, and Chat3D is at the forefront of this technological advancement. By utilizing AI algorithms, Chat3D allows users to easily generate 3D models by simply describing what they want or uploading an image. This accessibility and efficiency make Chat3D a valuable tool for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering. With its affordable pricing model and user-friendly interface, Chat3D.ai is democratizing the world of 3D modeling and empowering individuals to express their creativity.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.
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BrainChip's neuromorphic technology: The next wave of AI @ CES 2024

2024-02-07

A transformative shift in the way devices are perceived and interacted with is being brought about by AI neural network accelerators. BrainChip Inc. is a leading developer of such an accelerator, a technology that enables AI to be embedded into various devices, thereby facilitating intelligent functions.

AI neural network accelerators: A technological revolution


BrainChip's neural network accelerator is compared to other AI technologies in the market, such as those developed by NVIDIA. The distinguishing factor for BrainChip is its architecture, which is based on neuromorphic principles, akin to the human brain. This implies that the accelerator is capable of multitasking and processing multiple events simultaneously, much like the human brain. Furthermore, the accelerator is noted for its minimal energy consumption, contributing to its high efficiency.

The end product for consumers is a device that requires less frequent charging, thanks to its neuromorphic architecture. This technology enables devices to perform multiple functions concurrently, similar to the human brain. Take, for example, a smart cabin in a vehicle, where the accelerator can recognize the driver, gestures, and voice. This level of recognition and interaction is made possible by BrainChip's technology.

AI still has room to grow


However, it is important to note that the adoption of this technology is still underway. The development and refinement of AI technologies require time, as they need to achieve a level of accuracy that can be utilized by consumers on a daily basis. It is the combination of inputting correct data and understanding it that facilitates the development of AI-based applications.

Excitement about the future of AI and the demand for more intelligent devices from consumers is a constant. At CES 2024, AI has been a prevalent theme, with numerous companies and individuals focusing on delivering intelligent solutions. Whether it is through software, hardware, or embedded intelligence, AI is transforming various industries and products.

Rob Telson, the Vice President of Ecosystem and Partnerships at BrainChip Inc., acknowledges that AI has only been around for a relatively short period of time, with significant advancements occurring in the past three years. He specifically mentions GPT, or Generative Pre-trained Transformer, which is a language model that has gained attention for its ability to generate human-like text. Despite these advancements, Linsdell emphasizes that truly intelligent devices that can think at the same level as a human are still three to seven years away.

Of course, the big question in AI whether AI will ever surpass the human brain in intelligence. Linsdell firmly states that AI will not be able to achieve the same level of thinking as the human brain. He acknowledges that AI may be able to think ahead of humans in certain areas, but it still lacks the efficiency, rationality, and logic that the human brain possesses.

However, Linsdell also believes that AI has the potential to bring about significant benefits if used correctly. He mentions the importance of playing the game right and ensuring that AI is used in a way that aligns with human thinking. While AI may make decisions that are not in line with human thinking currently, Linsdell suggests that with further tinkering and advancements, AI may eventually reach a point where it can match human thinking.

Conclusion: BrainChip is on the bleeding edge of AI processing


In conclusion, AI neural network accelerators, such as the one developed by BrainChip Inc., are revolutionizing the capabilities of devices. By embedding AI into devices, they can perform multiple functions simultaneously, akin to the human brain. This technology holds the potential to enhance various industries and create more intelligent and interactive devices for consumers.

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Trilogy Technologies' blood glucose and cholesterol device @ CES 2024

2024-02-07

Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring is a new technology designed to simplify and enhance the convenience of monitoring blood glucose levels for individuals with diabetes. Trilogy Technologies, a company specializing in non-invasive medical devices, has developed a device that not only detects blood glucose levels but also measures uric acid and total cholesterol levels. This device provides a painless and convenient method for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels, a significant improvement over traditional methods that require finger pricking.

Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring


This device is considered a game changer in the market as it eliminates the need for traditional methods such as drawing blood and testing it in certified labs. Pre-clinical trials have been conducted on the device, and it has demonstrated an accuracy rate of 93.49% compared to the golden standard.

The device is compact and user-friendly, requiring no needles or jabs, thus offering a painless experience. To use the device, it is simply pressed against the skin and held lightly. Within 40 seconds, the device displays the blood glucose, uric acid, and total cholesterol levels. The values can also be streamed to Android phones or iPhones for easy tracking and monitoring.

The device stands out for its simplicity. It is a one-time purchase with no need for a subscription. It is rechargeable, allowing for easy and ready use. An accompanying app provides data analysis, assisting users in tracking their health and promoting self-care.

One of the key advantages of this non-invasive blood glucose monitoring device is its affordability. As it does not require expensive patches or continuous supplies, individuals can purchase the device and use it for an extended period of time. Furthermore, all the analysis is done within the device itself, eliminating the need for data to be sent to the cloud, thereby ensuring privacy and avoiding potential risks.

Bringing the product to market and beyond


The device has been well-received, with many seeing it as a potential solution to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, particularly diabetes. It is believed that this device could benefit millions of people, reducing the pain and frustration of monitoring blood glucose levels. It allows people with diabetes and other issues to check their levels anywhere at any time without risk of pain or contamination.

Currently, Trilogy Technologies is conducting clinical trials to obtain FDA approval for their device. This step is crucial to ensure the device meets the required standards for accuracy and safety. It is expected that the device will be available for consumers in the third or fourth quarter of the year.

Trilogy Technologies has expressed hope for widespread support of the product. The company's goal is to enhance human health and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their own well-being. A release date in 2024 is being targeted.

Conclusion: Trilogy Technologies is fixing blood glucose monitoring


In conclusion, this innovative device, the non-invasive blood glucose monitor developed by Trilogy Technologies, has the potential to significantly improve personal health, especially for individuals with diabetes. Its simplicity, affordability, and potential to revolutionize blood glucose monitoring could have a significant impact on personal health and well-being. To learn more about the company, its products, and the future of the product, check out their website.

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SECURAM: From laser switches to biometric door locks @ CES 2024

2024-02-09

SECURAM, a leading company in the security industry, recently announced the launch of its new suite of smart switch products. The Director of Marketing, Steve Davidson, shared insights about the unique features of these products.

Smart security switch with beam


The suite includes three types of switches, each designed with a specific focus on security. One of the standout features is a laser sensor located on the front of the switch. This sensor, which is thin and measures no more than three millimeters, can detect motion up to 15 feet away in both dark and bright settings.

The laser sensor is designed to trigger alarms or turn on lights when motion is detected. It is positioned at a height that is unlikely to be triggered by pets or children, ensuring that any motion detected is intentional.

Added security for emergencies


One of the key features of the smart security switch is its ability to make phone calls in case of emergencies. This means that users can set it up to automatically call emergency services if they do not respond to a notification. While there is no information about whether this service will be subscription-based, the company is considering different options.

One of the standout features of the smart security switch is its ability to function even without an internet connection. While certain features may not be available without internet access, the switch can still communicate with other devices within the house. This is made possible through the switches' ability to talk to each other, creating a network of communication within the home.

The smart security switch also has programmable features. Users can program the up and down buttons to control multiple switches in their home. This allows for convenient control of lights and other devices throughout the house.

Using the switches together


While it is not necessary to have multiple switches, SECURAM recommends grouping them for optimal security. The company offers a regular switch without the laser sensor, a dimmer switch, and a programmable version of the security switch. These switches can be used to secure common entry points for intruders, such as front and back doors or patio doors.

Davidson confirmed that the ideal setup would include a switch near each door, but the final decision depends on the individual's home layout and needs.

The switches are controlled through the SecureAMGuard app, which allows users to group and manage all their switches in one place. The app offers various scenes, automations, and triggers that can be set. Users can even set up the switch to notify the police or a specific person if motion is detected.

Simple installation for everyone


The installation process for the smart security switch is straightforward and can be done by anyone who is comfortable installing a regular switch. The switch simply pinches the wires, making it easy to install. However, it is important to turn off the breaker before installation to ensure safety. The company provides an installation video on Amazon to guide users through the process.

Biometric door lock with app


Another security product in the family is the EOS lock. This is a biometric door lock that offers a high level of security. It features a fingerprint reader and a durable aluminum metal housing. Users can also enter a passcode to unlock the door. The EOS lock is available in both Wi-Fi and standalone models. The standalone model does not require an internet connection and operates mechanically.

The EOS lock can be connected to the Guard app, which allows users to remotely open and close the door. This feature is particularly useful for granting access to guests when the homeowner is not at home. The app also provides a history of when the door was opened and closed, as well as alerts for when the door is left open.

What sets the EOS apart?


While there are competitors in the market offering similar products, SECURAM differentiates itself through its extensive experience in the lock industry. With over 30 years of experience in the lock and safe lock industries, SECURAM has established a high standard of quality and reliability. This expertise gives users confidence in the security and durability of the EOS lock.

Overall, the biometric door lock with app offered by SECURAM provides a convenient and secure solution for enhancing home security. With its programmable features, remote access capabilities, and high-quality construction, it is a reliable choice for homeowners looking to protect their property.

Conclusion: Unique security in an expensive package


The pricing for the smart security switch is reasonable, with the regular switch priced at $24.95 and the dimmer switch priced at $59.95. This makes it an affordable option for enhancing home security. The MSRP for the smart EOS lock is $269.

In conclusion, SECURAM's smart security switch with a beam is designed to enhance home security by detecting motion and triggering alarms or lights. It can be grouped with other switches and controlled through the SecureAMGuard app, which offers a range of customization options. The SECURAM smart lock is a reliable and convenient solution for enhancing home security. With its biometric capabilities, remote access features, and solid construction, it offers homeowners peace of mind and ease of use.

To learn more about SECURAM and its product offerings, check out their website or Amazon store.

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Perovskia Solar's innovative tech: Harnessing indoor light @ CES 2024

2024-02-09

Perovskia Solar AG, under the leadership of CEO Anand Verma, has revolutionized the way electronic devices are powered by introducing indoor solar cells. These solar cells can be customized to any shape, size, and design, making them versatile and adaptable to a wide range of electronic devices.

Indoor solar cells power devices


While solar cells have traditionally been designed to harness the power of sunlight outdoors, the majority of electronic devices are used indoors. This necessitated the development of solar cells capable of generating electricity from indoor light sources, a feat successfully achieved by Perovskia Solar.

The company's solar cells can operate with any light source, including natural light, fluorescent light, and LED light. Despite sunlight being more potent than indoor light, these solar cells are designed to be highly sensitive and efficient in capturing and converting indoor light into electricity.

One of the remarkable features of these solar cells is their flexibility. They can be integrated into everyday devices such as smartwatches, keyboards, cameras, and IoT systems, allowing users to have solar-powered devices that never require charging. This is made possible through partnerships with companies like Apple and Samsung, who incorporate the solar cells into their products.

A new material for a new usage


Perovskia Solar's solar cells are based on a new material called perovskite. This material, combined with their fully printed technology, enables the solar cells to be printed in any shape, size, and design. This not only makes them functional but also aesthetically pleasing. A testament to their innovation is the CES Innovation Award won by their customer, Baracuda Group, for a self-sustainable wristband powered by Perovskia's solar cells.

The efficiency of perovskite solar cells is also impressive. These solar cells have the ability to absorb a significant amount of visible light, making them highly efficient at converting light into electricity. This means that even in low light conditions, such as indoors, perovskite solar cells can still generate enough power to keep devices running.

In addition to their flexibility and efficiency, perovskite solar cells also offer aesthetic appeal. The black border of the solar cell blends seamlessly into the design of devices, making it almost invisible to the user. This means that devices can be powered by solar energy without sacrificing style or functionality.

Furthermore, perovskite solar cells have the potential to power IoT sensors, which are becoming increasingly important in various industries. These sensors can be used to monitor and collect data in real-time, and the ability to power them with perovskite solar cells makes them even more versatile and efficient.

While perovskite solar cells are not yet capable of powering high voltage devices such as televisions, the technology is rapidly advancing. As researchers continue to enhance the performance and efficiency of perovskite solar cells, it is only a matter of time before they become a viable option for larger devices.

In terms of lifespan, these solar cells are designed to outlast the life of electronic devices, providing users with a long-lasting solution without the need for replacements or maintenance.

Who is Perovskia Solar panels for?


Currently, Perovskia Solar serves customers from various parts of the world, including the US, Japan, Europe, and Asia, and collaborates with global industry players. While the technology is not yet capable of providing power backup for an entire house, the company is working towards that goal.

Conclusion: Indoor solar can power your daily needs


In conclusion, Perovskia Solar's indoor solar cells have ushered in new possibilities for powering electronic devices. They offer a sustainable and convenient alternative to traditional power sources, thanks to their ability to generate electricity from indoor light sources. The flexibility, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal of these solar cells make them a promising solution for powering consumer electronic devices and IoT sensors. As technology continues to evolve, the potential of indoor solar cells in transforming the way we power our homes and offices is indeed exciting.

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Veeo: Bringing back eye-to-eye communication online @ CES 2024

2024-02-09

Veeo, a display product company, has introduced a transparent OLED display designed to enhance the experience of remote online meetings. The company's primary goal is to enable eye-to-eye contact during these meetings, replicating the trust-building experience of face-to-face interactions.

Transparent OLED display for online meetings


The product utilizes a camera positioned behind the transparent OLED display. This setup creates the effect of a clear glass, aligning all participants along the center axis and allowing them to view each other through the screen. The camera is strategically placed at eye level behind the display, ensuring participants do not have to look down. The height of the display can be adjusted, but the camera is located at the center point of the screen.

The camera can achieve 1080p resolution, with 4K also possible but not necessary. Its specialty lies in its ability to see through the transparent display and eliminate distortion, reflection, and interference. The monitor has a pixel density that limits the resolution. The 30-inch display is currently 720p, as some real estate needs to remain transparent. The transparency of the display is around 40%.

Veeo offers two screen sizes - 30-inch and 55-inch - which are currently only prototypes. The company showcased the product at a media event and plans to start shipping in the summer. The camera has a field of view of approximately 80 degrees, capturing a reasonable angle for meetings.

Software to improve the experience


The product includes software that works with various online video meeting platforms, including Zoom. Veeo also offers special software that allows participants to use a transparent shared whiteboard, where each person has their own section of the screen, but the text orientation is correct for each individual.

In addition, users can import content, such as videos and PowerPoint presentations, to the cloud server. This content can then be accessed and displayed dynamically during the presentation. This feature can be compared to a video switcher, where the next video or PowerPoint slide is queued up and can be easily accessed and displayed with a push of a button.

One notable feature of Veeo's product is its versatility in sharing content. Users can choose whether to share the content with the audience or keep it for themselves, using it as a teleprompter. This flexibility allows presenters to tailor their presentations to their specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion: An easy way to maintain eye contact online


In terms of pricing, Veeo offers a fully enclosed version of the 30-inch display for $2,500, while the see-through version, suitable for open office environments, costs around $3,000. The 55-inch display is primarily targeted for conference rooms and comes with collaborative software to enable participants to work together and view shared digital content. The pricing for the 55-inch display is not mentioned.

In conclusion, Veeo's transparent OLED display for online meetings aims to enhance the remote meeting experience by enabling eye-to-eye contact and providing collaborative features. While the pricing and availability of the product are mentioned, more details about its capabilities and potential impact on online meetings would be beneficial.

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Jedsy's medical delivery solution: Saving lives with drones @ CES 2024

2024-02-11

In recent years, drone technology has emerged as a game-changer across various industries, and the healthcare sector is no exception. Among the pioneers in this field are Mirko Cesena and his team at Jedsy, who have developed an ingenious drone platform with life-saving capabilities.

Jedsy's innovative solution


Unlike traditional drones that touch down on the ground, Jedsy's creation takes a different approach. Their drone is equipped with a remarkable feature known as "Mailbox 2.0." This innovative mailbox can be seamlessly attached to a window or balcony, allowing medical professionals to load essential packages onto the drone without physical contact. Once the package is secured, the window is closed, and the drone initiates its mission.

Jedsy's drone boasts impressive capabilities. It can cover distances of up to 100 kilometers (approximately 60 miles), making it ideal for reaching remote locations. With a payload capacity of 2.4 kilograms (5 pounds), it can transport critical supplies such as medicine, blood samples, and emergency medical equipment.

Saving lives in challenging environments


The genesis of this technology lies in the urgent need to save lives in regions with limited access to medical facilities, particularly parts of Africa. Mirko and his team recognized the gaps in existing transportation methods and set out to create a reliable solution.

The development journey began three years ago, with meticulous planning, design, and testing. The drone's unique configuration, featuring both horizontal and vertical motors, was a breakthrough. This design not only ensures stability during flight but also allows for efficient takeoffs and landings.

Jedsy's drone platform received a patent for its innovative design, validating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. As the technology continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming healthcare delivery, bridging geographical gaps, and saving lives where it matters most. Jedsy's drone technology represents a beacon of hope for remote communities, demonstrating that innovation knows no boundaries when it comes to improving healthcare outcomes.

Mirko's impact: From helicopter pilot to drone innovator


Mirko's journey from helicopter pilot to drone technology pioneer has been nothing short of remarkable. His background in aviation played a crucial role in shaping the development of a groundbreaking solution that could transform healthcare delivery.

During the initial testing phase, Mirko's skills as a pilot were put to the test. The drone's flight behavior was unpredictable, and crashes were a constant threat. Mirko's aerobatic expertise allowed him to navigate and control the drone effectively, saving it from disaster time and again. His commitment ensured that every glider was retrieved, providing valuable data for continuous testing and improvement.

However, the turning point came with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). As software advancements took center stage, the drone evolved beyond its human operator. Today, it operates autonomously, surpassing even Mirko's capabilities. The drone can now fly beyond the pilot's line of sight, reaching remote areas with ease. Its ability to control attitude, even in challenging weather conditions, is a testament to AI's impact.

Leveraging AI algorithms, the drone identifies the fastest routes for transportation. It optimizes delivery paths, ensuring timely and safe transport of critical medical supplies. In addition, the AI-equipped drone detects potential trouble areas, such as adverse weather conditions or obstacles. This proactive approach enhances safety and reliability.

Healthcare revolutionized


The impact of Jedsy's drone platform extends far beyond technology. In regions with limited access to medical facilities, this innovation becomes a lifeline. Imagine remote villages in Africa receiving urgent medicine, blood samples, or emergency supplies promptly-potentially saving countless lives.

The autonomous nature of the drone reduces reliance on human pilots, minimizing human error and maximizing efficiency. As technology advances, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are limitless. Jedsy's success story serves as a beacon of hope, bridging geographical gaps and improving medical outcomes where it matters most.

Glider drone for medical deliveries


The concept of glider drones for medical deliveries has emerged as a transformative force. These bird-inspired drones, designed to land on windows, utilize thermals to extend their range while conserving battery power. Jedsy, a company with a laser focus on the medical sector, aims to outperform cars in terms of cost per kilometer and reduce CO2 emissions.

Jedsy's glider drone isn't merely a technological marvel; it's a lifeline for medical deliveries. Its unique design, coupled with artificial intelligence integration, positions it as an attractive alternative to traditional transportation methods. As technology evolves, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are boundless. Jedsy's success story offers hope-a bridge connecting remote regions to improved medical access and outcomes.

In conclusion, the glider drone developed by Jedsy presents a promising solution for medical deliveries. Its unique design and integration of artificial intelligence, along with its potential to be cheaper and more efficient than traditional transportation methods, make it an attractive option for the healthcare industry. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are vast, offering hope for improved medical access and outcomes, particularly in remote areas.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.
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How Zoog brings families together through storytelling @ CES 2024

2024-02-11

Zoog is a platform that aims to connect generations through technology. The idea for Zoog was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when the founders realized the difficulty grandparents and parents faced in communicating with their children and grandchildren over video. They wanted to create a way for them to engage with kids in a similar way to offline activities such as reading books, singing songs, and making them laugh, but in an immersive and fun way that could be done remotely.

Zoog is an innovative platform that leverages technology to bridge the gap between generations. By providing a simple and immersive way for grandparents to connect with their grandchildren through storytelling and interactive videos, Zoog enhances the bond between generations and creates lasting memories. It is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together, even when physical distance separates them.

Zoog - Connecting generations through technology


The concept behind Zoog is simple. Users can choose children's content, such as Winnie the Pooh, and use the app to record themselves reading the story. As they read, the app adds animations, face filters, background animations, sound effects, and music to create an engaging and interactive video. This video can then be shared with grandchildren, who can view it on any device at any time. They can react to the video with emojis and even request the next content they want their grandparents to read.

The primary users of Zoog are grandparents who use the platform to connect with their grandkids, especially if they don't live in the same house. The platform is designed to be user-friendly for older adults, and the creators actively involve grandparents in the product development process to ensure it meets their needs and preferences. Many grandparents today are technologically savvy, having used iPhones and computers for years, making Zoog's intuitive interface and simplicity appealing to them.

How to use Zoog


To use Zoog, users can download the app for free from the iOS App Store. The app offers some free content for users to try, but to access the full library, a subscription called Zoog+ is required. Creating a video is straightforward, and grandparents can share it with their grandchildren as a link, similar to sending a text message. The child does not need to have the app installed to view the video, making it convenient for both parties. The child can watch the video at their convenience.

The delivery of media through Zoog is done via text message links. When a grandparent shares a video, the link leads the recipient to a webpage where they can view the video and interact with it. The child can leave emojis and request specific content for future videos. The company has partnered with various content creators, such as DreamWorks, to offer a wide range of children's content, including popular characters like Gabby from Gabby's Dollhouse and soon-to-be-released Paw Patrol content.

In terms of pricing, the Zoog+ monthly subscription is available for $9.99. However, they also provide cheaper plans for those who opt for annual or quarterly subscriptions. This pricing structure allows users to choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.

Conclusion: A simple way to read across the world


The Zoog app is currently available for iOS devices, with an Android option coming soon. This means that iPhone and iPad users can easily download the app from the iOS App Store and start using it to connect with their loved ones. The app is called Zoog: Magical Storytime and can be found in the App Store.

In conclusion, the Zoog app is a groundbreaking platform that enables grandparents and grandchildren to connect through storytelling and interactive videos. Overall, the app is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

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Snyper: Empowering communities through social shopping @ CES 2024

2024-02-11

A groundbreaking social shopping application is transforming the landscape of affiliate marketing by establishing an equitable and inclusive platform for individuals to monetize product endorsements. The creators of this application, known as Snyper, identified the prevailing influence of major influencers in the existing market and sought to extend opportunities to all, encompassing friends, family, and community members, to engage in affiliate marketing.

Social shopping app revolutionizes affiliate marketing


The application showcases a feed where users can peruse and observe products that their connections have purchased. This engenders a sense of trust and familiarity, as users can depend on the endorsements of individuals they know and trust. For instance, a user is more likely to trust a five-star review from a well-known acquaintance who frequently travels and stays at resorts, and consider booking the same resort.

In addition to this, the application furnishes supplementary information about the product, such as product specifics, related products, and amenities. This empowers users to make informed decisions before making a purchase. Upon deciding to book a product, users have the option to pay using a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrency. The application monitors the user's journey and the sources that influenced them to make the purchase.

Affiliate marketing for all


A key innovation of Snyper is the affiliate fee system. Vendors can designate a percentage as an affiliate fee for each product they offer. When a user makes a purchase through the application, this fee is divided between the individual who directly influenced the purchase and others who indirectly contributed to the user's decision. For example, if a user clicked on a link shared by a friend and made a purchase, the friend would receive a larger portion of the affiliate fee, while others who also shared the product would receive smaller portions.

This social shopping application is revolutionizing affiliate marketing by democratizing the process. It eradicates the necessity for individuals to own a website or a substantial following on major platforms to participate in affiliate marketing. Instead, it emphasizes the power of personal connections and word-of-mouth endorsements. By providing everyone the opportunity to earn money through product endorsements, Snyper is fostering a more inclusive and equitable affiliate marketing ecosystem.

Passive income through everyday activities


Snyper allows users to monetize their lifestyle by simply doing what they already do on a daily basis. Whether it's ordering a burger, buying new shoes online, or shopping for everyday items, users can earn passive income by doing these activities on the Snyper platform. The app acts as a middleman, connecting users with businesses and brands that are looking for product recommendations and reviews.

The slogan of Snyper, "monetize your lifestyle, influence to earn," encapsulates the essence of the platform. It emphasizes the idea that users can continue to live their lives as they normally would, but by using the Snyper app, they can turn their everyday activities into a source of passive income. The app taps into the power of personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, recognizing that everyone has the potential to inspire others through their actions.

When can I use Snyper?


In terms of release, Snyper plans to launch on both the App Store and Google Play. The initial focus will be on Argentina, with plans to expand throughout South America. The founders acknowledge that building a successful platform will require hard work, dedication, and effort. They are aware that they are not a large conglomerate with massive resources, but they are committed to making Snyper a success through growth hacking strategies.

Conclusion: A new approach to affiliate marketing


In conclusion, Snyper is a social shopping app that enables users to earn passive income through their everyday activities. By leveraging personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, users can monetize their lifestyle and become affiliate marketers without the need for a website. With its upcoming launch in South America, Snyper aims to empower individuals to earn passive income and create meaningful connections between users and businesses.

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Budizzz: A new approach to children's bedtime routines @ CES 2024

2024-02-12

Budizzz, a company specializing in sleep technology, has developed a distraction-free device designed to improve sleep quality and promote mental wellness. The device provides a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, offering a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed.

Distraction-free device for better sleep


The Budizzz device works by synchronizing with a crowdsourced library of content. Users can customize their preferred content, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and calming sounds, to create a routine that promotes relaxation and better sleep. The device is designed for both adults and children.

The device emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for mindfulness practices, such as breathing techniques, to improve focus and reduce distractions. It also highlights the importance of quality sleep for both children and adults.

The technology behind the device is app-driven, but the creators wanted to disconnect the device from the app. Users can use the app independently, which offers a crowdsourced library of content from around the world. It allows users to set up a routine that includes various sounds and activities, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and gratitude practices. In the morning, the device wakes users up with a body scan and guides them through gratitude practices, ensuring a positive start to the day.

The device offers crowdsource content focused on sleep and mindfulness, contributed by professionals. The revenue generated from the device is shared with these professionals, creating a collaborative and socially responsible project. The device also plans to incorporate AI sleep tracking to provide users with insights into their sleep quality and offer personalized routines for better sleep.

The story behind the device


Sylwia Regulska Guney is the founder of Budizzz, and her inspiration for creating the device came from her own experience as a parent. She noticed that her son often played games on his tablet instead of engaging in activities that promote mindfulness. After her son participated in a mindfulness course, Sylwia recognized the positive impact it had on him and decided to create a device that combines mindfulness practices with better sleep routines.

Sylwia has seen positive changes in her own children after using the device. Her son has become more mindful and aware of his emotions, using breathing techniques to calm himself down. She also mentions the impact of sleep on children's behavior and emphasizes the importance of bedtime routines for a better day ahead.

Conclusion: A screen-free way to sleep easier


Budizzz was in prototype phase during CES 2024, but has since hit the market. It is available from the company's website. It is important to note that all prices are in Turkish Lira, but a United States shopping experience is an option (though the pricing and language stay the same)unknown. The price as of current exchange rates is about $65 with shipping costing around $21.

In conclusion, the distraction-free device for better sleep aims to promote mental wellness and improve sleep quality. By providing a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, the device offers a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed. With its crowdsource library of content and AI sleep tracking, the device aims to provide users with a personalized and effective solution for better sleep and overall well-being.

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Blacklyte: From home decor to smart gaming accessories @ CES 2024

2024-02-12

Blacklyte, a brand that initially started as a home decor company, has broadened its product line to include gaming peripherals such as gaming desks, gaming chairs, and lighting. The company stands out from traditional furniture companies by developing its own software and algorithms to interpret in-game data, synchronize it, and convert it into light signals displayed on the desk.

Smart gaming desk with customizable lighting


The Blacklyte Atlas Desk is versatile, catering to various uses including gaming competitions, education, streaming, music, and other forms of entertainment. The company's experience in the home decor industry inspired the creation of this product. To cater to their specific needs, Blacklyte designed their table from scratch. After a year and a half of testing, they developed a patented layered sandwich design that maximizes strength, lightweight, and magnetic capabilities. The table is magnetizable, allowing for easy attachment of accessories, extendables, cable management, and corner lights.

As they developed their products, they encountered challenges with synchronizing games and music with traditional LED lights. This led them to devise algorithms that go beyond merely reacting to voice commands. They analyzed games and created a graphic algorithm to read and interpret game data, which is then translated into lighting effects on the desk.

A unique aspect of Blacklyte's Atlas Desk is its software, which reads the game being played and interacts with the lights accordingly. While the company keeps the details of their algorithms confidential, they have collaborated with pro gamers and universities to test and refine their product. Feedback and customization suggestions from these testers have helped Blacklyte optimize the lighting effects. They have also worked with psychology majors from the University of Toronto to design lighting that enhances performance and improves daily use. For instance, the desk can be set to a morning mode with energizing blue hues to wake up the user or a rest mode with warmer tones to facilitate sleep.

Light therapy for various applications


Ambient lighting in airplanes changes to help passengers sleep or wake up. This concept is similar to how the Atlas Desk by Blacklyte uses light therapy to create different moods and enhance the gaming experience. The company is working with psychologists to extend their system of light therapy for to increase a player's abilities, both in-game and in the real world.

The importance of light and color in our everyday lives, affecting our mood and energy levels, is a key focus of Blacklyte's Atlas Desk. It takes the concept of sunrise alarm clocks a step further by integrating light cues into the workspace. This customizable lighting can serve as a gentle reminder to adjust one's activities and help maintain a healthy sleep schedule.

In conclusion, Blacklyte's Atlas Desk offers a unique and customizable lighting experience for gamers and other entertainment enthusiasts. By developing their own software and algorithms, the company has created a desk that syncs with games, music, and other forms of entertainment. The desk's design, including its layered sandwich construction and magnetic capabilities, adds functionality and customization options.

With the collaboration of pro gamers and psychology experts, Blacklyte has optimized the lighting effects to enhance performance and daily use. This innovative product demonstrates the potential of integrating technology and design to create a more immersive and personalized gaming experience.

The Blacklyte Atlas Desk is not yet available, but is coming soon. The desk will retail for $1,099 and will be available from the company's website, as well as their retail partners. To learn more about the Blacklyte Atlas Desk or any of their other products, check out their website.

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AGIGA is tackling electronic component shortages and excess @ CES 2024

2024-02-12

AGIGA is a unique marketplace designed to address the issue of excess electronic inventories. The platform serves as a conduit between industrial electronic companies, enabling them to sell their surplus inventories and purchase necessary electronic components.

AGIGA is a marketplace for excess electronic inventories


The concept of AGIGA was conceived from the founder's extensive experience of 25 to 30 years in the electronic industry. He identified the significant challenges faced by electronic companies, particularly the substantial size of their excess inventories. These surplus inventories often lead to a revenue loss of 1%, which directly translates to a 1% decrease in profit.

The operation of the AGIGA platform is straightforward. Companies with surplus electronic components send their inventory files to the marketplace. The platform then handles the pricing, considering the fluctuating value of electronic components. The proposed pricing is shared with the companies, and upon agreement, the inventory is listed online. Other electronic companies can then search for and purchase the required components through the platform. Once an order is completed, AGIGA coordinates the shipping of the parts from the seller to their warehouse, thoroughly inspecting the parts to ensure their quality before shipping them to the buyer.

Hard to find becomes easier


The marketplace is significant for individuals and companies seeking hard-to-find electronic components. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, certain parts often become obsolete or difficult to obtain. AGIGA serves as an alternative and additional channel, providing access to a wide range of components from various distributors, saving time and effort.

For designers and purchasers, AGIGA offers a centralized location to find specific electronic parts. This simplifies the process of sourcing components, especially when dealing with hard-to-find parts. Instead of searching through multiple suppliers or spending time and resources on finding the right components, designers can turn to the platform for a wide selection of options.

Connecting companies to reduce costs and waste


AGIGA stands out for its ability to connect vendors and buyers in a challenging market. The platform has established a network of independent distributors, referred to as brokers, to facilitate this process. However, they differentiate themselves from standard brokers by aiming to sell all types of electronic components, not just those in high demand or shortage.

They also provide transparent pricing, allowing customers to see the prices for different quantities of the components they are interested in. AGIGA operates on a margin model, with a relatively smaller 15 point margin compared to traditional markups, ensuring competitive prices while covering their costs.

Beyond profit, AGIGA recognizes the environmental impact of excess stock being discarded after a certain period, typically around five to six years. By facilitating the sale of these surplus components, AGIGA aims to reduce waste and minimize the negative environmental consequences, aligning with the growing importance of sustainability and responsible consumption.

AGIGA is reducing waste and helping users buy components


In conclusion, AGIGA's marketplace for excess electronic inventories addresses the challenges faced by industrial electronic companies with surplus stock. The platform connects vendors and buyers, allowing them to sell and purchase electronic components. Their transparent pricing, margin model, and commitment to reducing waste make it a unique and valuable resource in the electronic industry. By providing a centralized location for hard-to-find components, AGIGA simplifies the process for designers, product testers, and other professionals in need of specific electronic parts.

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CarePredict: Empowering families with elder care solutions @ CES 2024

2024-02-21

CarePredict, an eldercare device designed to detect health issues in seniors, is making waves in the healthcare industry. The device was created to meet the needs of families living away from their elderly loved ones. The founder, inspired by personal experiences with elderly parents and frequent emergency room visits, envisioned a device that could help detect health problems before they become severe.

Eldercare device detects health issues


CarePredict is a wrist-worn wearable device that captures motion data. It can track various patterns such as bathroom usage, sleep patterns, eating patterns, overall activity levels, and walking patterns. The device establishes an individual's normal patterns and uses artificial intelligence to detect significant deviations. For example, if a senior typically goes to the bathroom five times a day but suddenly starts going ten times a day, it could be an indicator of a urinary tract infection.

The device's ability to predict health issues is particularly important, especially in relation to conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. CarePredict can detect changes in walking patterns and activity levels, which could indicate pain or discomfort. This early detection allows caregivers to check on their loved ones and provide assistance if needed. This can be particularly valuable for caregivers who may not be physically present to monitor their loved ones' health.

Regarding interactivity, CarePredict has a simple interface with a button. Seniors can press the button to get information like the time, date, and battery level. If they need help, the button can also alert their caregiver through the app. The caregiver can then communicate with the senior through the app, providing real-time assistance and support. The ability to have real-time communication and assistance through the wearable device is a crucial feature for long-distance caregivers.

The system works by creating a CareCircle of reliable friends, relatives, and neighbors who can be contacted in case of an emergency. This ensures that help can be quickly dispatched when needed. The device also allows for real-time communication through audio reminders, which can be set up to remind seniors to take their medication or perform other important tasks.

Additional features


One of the key features of the CarePredict device is its ability to pair with FDA-approved devices such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters. This allows caregivers to track important health metrics and provides a more comprehensive view of a senior's health. By monitoring these metrics, caregivers can detect any abnormalities and take appropriate action.

Another feature of the device is its ability to track indoor location. For instance, if a senior spends significantly more time in their bedroom than usual, it could signal an issue that requires attention.

Conclusion: CarePredict offers simple safety for aging in place


The CarePredict device is currently available for private purchase at a price of $450 for the kit and a subscription fee of $69.99. While it is not currently reimbursable through Medicare or other insurance programs, the device offers a promising solution for improving elder care and enhancing the well-being of seniors.

In conclusion, CarePredict is a promising solution for improving eldercare and enhancing the well-being of seniors. The device, designed to detect health issues in seniors through motion tracking and artificial intelligence, provides early warning signs for conditions like urinary tract infections and allows caregivers to provide timely assistance. The ability to communicate in real-time through the device is particularly valuable for long-distance caregivers who may not be physically present to help their loved ones.

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Neakasa S1 Pro: Improving home pet grooming and cleaning @ CES 2024

2024-02-21

The Neakasa S1 Pro grooming system, a popular product in the pet care industry, offers pet owners the ability to achieve professional-level grooming results at home. This premium home grooming system was developed by Minming Gu, co-founder of Neakasa.

Premium home grooming system


Neakasa, a name derived from the words "neat" and "casa" (home in Spanish), is designed to make home cleaning more efficient, particularly in dealing with pet hair. The system aims to help families maintain clean and tidy homes, a common challenge for many pet owners.

The Neakasa grooming system represents the fourth generation of pet grooming systems from the company. The first version launched approximately two and a half years ago, quickly gained popularity. It introduced a new category in the pet grooming industry and became a top seller on Amazon within six months.

The latest iteration, known as the Nikasa S1 Pro or "Donut," is the most premium and professional home grooming system currently available. It includes eight different accessories: a clipper, brush, nozzle, daily brush, de-shatter, nail grinder, and a smaller clipper. These accessories provide pet owners with the versatility and precision needed for comprehensive pet grooming. For instance, the nail grinder is used for trimming and shaping a pet's nails, while the smaller clipper is perfect for grooming hard-to-reach areas such as between the paws or around the ears and mouth.

The Neakasa grooming system also introduces two new accessories: the Rake and the D-Shader. The Rake is designed for double-coated dogs with heavy fur, while the D-Shader is more suitable for single-coated or less heavy fur. These practical accessories cater to different grooming needs.

It's also great for cats


Also designed with feline needs in mind, the Neakasa S1 Pro is gentle and non-invasive, ensuring cats remain comfortable during grooming sessions. This cat-friendly design is a significant benefit for cat owners, as cats are known for their independent nature and can often resist grooming. However, the Neakasa S1 Pro allows owners to have a more positive and successful grooming experience, grooming their pets effectively and efficiently without causing unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Neakasa S1 Pro is quiet and pet-friendly


The Neakasa S1 Pro is renowned for its quiet operation, which offers a significant advantage to pet owners. Its near-silent operation is particularly beneficial for pets sensitive to loud noises, such as cats, which can often become anxious or stressed during grooming sessions. The Neakasa S1 Pro ensures a calm and comfortable grooming experience, making it easier for owners to groom their pets effectively without causing them distress.

Conclusion: Neakasa is a great pair for pet owners


Priced at $199, the Neakasa S1 Pro grooming system is a relatively affordable option compared to the average cost of professional pet grooming services. Moreover, grooming pets at home can be less stressful for the pets as they are in a familiar environment, and it can also foster trust between pets and their owners.

In summary, the Neakasa grooming system is a valuable investment for any pet owner. It offers a range of accessories and a user-friendly design that allows for easy and precise home grooming. Its affordability and stress-reducing benefits for both pets and owners underscore its value.

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Peel & Play: A new sensory toy for kids with special needs @ CES 2024

2024-02-21

The Peel & Play interactive toy, designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other related disabilities, aims to provide a fun and creative way for these children to relieve stress and engage in interactive activities. This innovative toy is designed to address the stimming behaviors commonly seen in children with ASD. Stimming, which refers to repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping or repeating words, is a way for individuals with ASD to regulate their emotions and stress levels.

Interactive toy for children with special needs


While stimming behaviors provide comfort and joy for these children, they can also prevent them from attending to daily activities. The goal of the Peel & Play toy is to provide a replacement behavior that is both enjoyable and engaging. Developed by a team called Solive Ventures, the toy incorporates puzzles and interactive features.

Resembling an orange that can be peeled off, the toy provides tactile feedback and vibrations for sensory stimulation. It also includes lights, songs, and different gaming modes. The toy uses haptic device techniques to provide vibrating feedback when pieces are inserted, while the LEDs and songs provide auditory and visual feedback, making the toy engaging and interactive.

The pieces of the toy can be put together to form different shapes, such as animals and numbers, allowing children to be creative and play with the puzzles in various ways. The toy also includes different gaming modes, such as "Catch Me If You Can" and "Simon Says," which promote cognitive development and memory skills.

Initially targeted at three to four-year-olds, the toy has been observed to be popular among children of different ages. The vibrating mode is popular among younger children, while the puzzle and gaming modes are more suitable for elementary school-aged children.

Tracking actions for engagement


One of the key features of the Peel & Play toy is its ability to track individual usage and provide metrics on children's engagement. This functionality could prove invaluable in educational settings, enabling teachers to monitor and support children's progress. By identifying when and how children are using the toy, educators can devise interventions and activities to improve classroom association and reduce reliance on stimming activities.

Future applications of the toy include the development of an app to monitor the developmental milestones of children using the toy. This app will allow parents and therapists to track the child's progress and customize the activities based on their developmental age.

Conclusion: A toy to ease stimming activities


The Peel & Play toy is set to launch in South Korea in April, with the team behind the toy currently in discussions with clinics and kindergartens in the country. They also have plans to expand to the international market in the future. The toy is expected to be priced between 100 to 200 in Korea, a relatively affordable range considering the potential psychological benefits it can offer. This is particularly significant for children with autism who heavily rely on stimming activities for self-soothing.

In conclusion, the Peel & Play interactive toy, currently in its prototype phase, is a valuable tool for children with disabilities, particularly those with ASD and sensory needs. The toy provides a fun and engaging way for these children to relieve stress, regulate their emotions, and develop cognitive skills. By incorporating tactile, auditory, and visual feedback, the toy promotes sensory stimulation and interactive play. The future development of an app to monitor developmental milestones further enhances the toy's potential impact on children's growth and development.

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Stacksync: Simplifying enterprise system synchronization @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

In today's fast-paced business world, effective customer relationship management (CRM) is crucial for companies to thrive. However, integrating CRM systems with databases and other enterprise systems has always been a complex and time-consuming process. Engineers and CRM consultants often have to rely on APIs and various tools, which not only cost a significant amount of money but also take months to integrate. This is where Stacksync comes in, offering a solution that simplifies and accelerates the CRM integration process.

Real-time CRM integration made easy


Stacksync, founded by Ruben Burdin, provides real-time and two-way sync between enterprise systems and databases, specifically CRMs and databases. The main goal is to connect CRMs like Salesforce or HubSpot to databases, enabling engineers to manipulate and update data within the CRM without the need for API calls. This approach makes the integration process 90% faster and significantly more efficient.

One of the most interesting use cases for Stacksync is data activation. Many companies have valuable customer insights and data stored in their databases or data warehouses like Snowflake or BigQuery. However, this data is often inaccessible to the business teams working on the CRM. Stacksync solves this challenge by enabling simple SQL queries to compute metrics with custom business logic and ship them back to the CRM without the need for API calls. This means that users can manipulate a table within their data warehouse, and it will directly impact the CRM. This seamless integration allows for the activation of data and ensures that the CRM is always up to date with the latest customer insights.

Data synchronization with integrity


What sets Stacksync apart is its ability to integrate CRM and databases without disrupting the work of sales and support teams. Changes made in the database will be reflected in the CRM, and vice versa, without causing any conflicts or errors. This means that engineers can use the data in their own systems, combining it with usage information from applications or hardware, without interfering with the work of sales and support teams. The integration brings all systems together, allowing for a comprehensive view of customer data and ensuring that sales and support teams have access to all relevant information.

One of the key features that makes this possible is its ability to protect the CRM from potential data loss or corruption. With a full suite of tools, Stacksync enables users to disable certain operations, such as deleting records, to prevent accidental data loss. This means that even if someone were to mistakenly delete all the records in the database, it would not impact the CRM. Additionally, Stacksync alerts users if there are any issues or modifications that could potentially affect data integrity, allowing them to quickly resolve these issues with just a click.

Furthermore, Stacksync provides comprehensive monitoring and logging capabilities. Users can access sync logs and error logs, providing a complete overview of the integration process. This level of monitoring ensures that any issues or errors can be quickly identified and addressed, minimizing the risk of data loss or corruption.

Who is Stacksync designed for?


The target customers for Stacksync are enterprises that require CRM integration, and the end-users are engineers and CRM consultants responsible for the integration. Traditionally, these professionals have had to navigate complex workflows, utilizing APIs and tools like MuleSoft or Workato. However, Stacksync eliminates the need for such tools and processes, simplifying the integration into a two-click process with no code required. The user-friendly interface allows for the synchronization of CRM data with the database, including custom fields and objects, providing flexibility and ease of use.

The implementation of Stacksync has already garnered attention and positive feedback. Customers who initially planned a six-month budget for CRM integration were amazed when Stacksync delivered results within six weeks and had them in production within ten days. This rapid turnaround time showcases the effectiveness and efficiency of Stacksync's approach.

Conclusion: Stacksync simplifies data integration


In terms of cost, Stacksync operates on a pay-as-you-go model, where users only pay for the monthly active rows they consume. This flexible pricing structure is based on the number of records updated in the CRM, rather than the total number of records in the database. This reduces costs significantly, especially for companies with large amounts of data. Compared to consulting alternatives or other integration tools, Stacksync offers a cost-effective solution, with savings of up to 90%.

In conclusion, Stacksync's real-time CRM integration solution revolutionizes the way companies connect their CRMs with databases. By simplifying the integration process and eliminating the need for complex tools and API calls, Stacksync enables engineers and CRM consultants to save time, money, and effort. The ability to activate data and seamlessly synchronize it between CRM and databases empowers businesses to make informed decisions and provide better customer experiences. With Stacksync, real-time CRM integration is made easy, making it a valuable tool for any enterprise looking to optimize their CRM workflows.

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BULMA Solution: Improving employee management and hiring @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

BULMA Solution, a new take on HR software, is set to transform the HR department with its innovative features. The software, which includes five different applications and a robot, is designed to assist in the hiring process, coaching, and employee management.

Software and a robot for HR


The software targets enterprises with 500 or more employees, aiming to provide a management solution that recognizes each employee, ensuring everyone feels valued. It includes a quotation system that allows HR departments to assess the social values, mission, and objectives of potential candidates and enterprises, helping candidates identify companies that align with their personal goals and values.

The software's revolutionary aspect lies in its use of technology, including the robot and various applications, to streamline and enhance HR processes. Its ability to assess social values, mission, and reputation, along with psychometric tests, provides a comprehensive evaluation of both enterprises and employees. This holistic approach aims to create a more efficient and effective HR department, leading to better hiring decisions and increased employee satisfaction.

BULMA Solution aims to address current issues such as blind hiring and societal challenges. It seeks to help candidates find companies where they can grow and focus on employee retention. By providing a comprehensive assessment of both enterprises and employees, BULMA Solution aims to break the cycle of people taking jobs just to have a job.

How does it work?


The software's scoring system varies for enterprises and employees. For enterprises, the score is based on social values, opportunities, salary, benefits, and mission. This system helps potential candidates identify companies with solid social values, a clear mission, and great objectives. For employees, the score is based on psychometric tests conducted during interviews or promotion evaluations.

The higher the test results, the higher the quotation score. The software also includes an application called Venus, which generates a digital footprint of individuals by analyzing their online presence and activities, providing HR departments with a better understanding of the person's reputation.

Identifying real person behind resume


BULMA Solution goes beyond the information provided on a resume or CV. It utilizes various tools and techniques to gather additional information about a candidate, such as their online presence and e-reputation. This allows HR professionals to get a more holistic view of the candidate and make a more informed decision during the hiring process.

By understanding the real person behind the resume, HR professionals can better assess a candidate's potential for growth within the company. They can identify their true passions, goals, and aspirations, and align them with the company's values and objectives. This can lead to more successful and fulfilling careers for employees, as they are able to pursue their true interests and contribute to the company in a meaningful way.

Furthermore, BULMA Solution is not limited to just the realm of work experience. It recognizes that individuals have lives outside of their jobs and that these experiences can also contribute to their overall skills and abilities. For example, a software engineer may engage in programming projects outside of work, participate in online forums, or contribute to open-source projects. By considering these additional activities, HR professionals can gain a deeper understanding of a candidate's true capabilities and potential.

Conclusion: A new take on candidate evaluation


In conclusion, BULMA Solution is a revolutionary HR software that aims to bring a new revolution to the HR department. By utilizing technology and comprehensive assessments, BULMA Solution aims to improve HR processes and create a more efficient and effective workplace.

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AI Robotics' vision to assist the elderly with technology @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

AI Robotics is a startup based in Marseille, France that is focused on developing versatile robots using artificial intelligence (AI). The company aims to change the future of work and living by creating robots that can adapt to various use cases and assist people in their daily lives.

AI Robotics develops versatile robots


The company has developed two types of AI: generative and predictive. The predictive AI allows the robot to recognize and adapt its speech to different individuals, such as women, children, or teenagers. The algorithm used in the robot's AI learns and becomes smarter over time. This technology has been applied to different industries, including hospitality, restaurants, logistics, and more.

One of the key features of AI Robotics' robots is their universal base, which allows for snap-on options on top. The robots can be customized and adapted to different environments and tasks. For example, in a supermarket or shopping center, the robot can be equipped with specific tools or features to meet the needs of the customers.

Furthermore, AI Robotics is open to collaboration with other companies to develop custom robots. While there is a minimum order requirement of 100 or 200 robots, the company is willing to work with businesses to create robots tailored to their specific needs.

AI Robotics has made significant progress in its development process. They have already completed two prototypes and plan to release two robots, including Hugo, for the market this year. Hugo is specifically designed for restaurants, hotels, and airports. The company has already received 800 pre-orders for this robot, indicating a strong demand.

Developing a domestic robot


However, AI Robotics has also focused on developing a robot called Stellar, which is designed for domestic use. The goal is to assist old and sick people in staying at home for longer periods. The Stellar robot can perform tasks such as cleaning, providing healthcare assistance, and even calling for emergency help in case of accidents. It serves as a companion and support system for individuals in their homes.

The Stellar robot is still in the process of development, with plans to launch it in 2025. The company has a large research and development facility, enabling them to manufacture around 200 to 300 robots per month.

Why develop such versatile robots?


The decision to create versatile robots stemmed from the founders' observation of robots in Asia that were limited to a single use case. AI Robotics wanted to create robots that could perform multiple tasks and serve a wider range of needs. They also aimed to bring together the expertise of roboticists in France by establishing Imagine Labs in Marseille. This initiative allows for the sharing of knowledge and positions France as a significant player in the future of robotics.

Market readiness for robots varies


Market readiness for robots varies significantly across different regions. In Europe, the market for robots is not fully ready, while in the Pacific, Middle East, and both North and South America, the market is more prepared for robots.

This variation in market readiness can be attributed to several factors. Cultural and societal norms play a crucial role in determining the acceptance and adoption of robots. Different regions may have different attitudes towards automation and robotics, which can influence the demand for robots.

Economic factors also impact market readiness. Countries with advanced economies and higher levels of industrialization may have a greater need for robots in sectors such as manufacturing and logistics. Conversely, countries with emerging economies may have different priorities and may not be as ready for widespread robot adoption.

Conclusion: Versatility adds to the usability


In terms of pricing, AI Robotics targets both B2B and B2B2C markets. For individual customers, the price range for the Yugo robot is between 12,000 and 15,000 euros. The Stellar robot, which offers more advanced features and capabilities, is priced at around 40,000 euros. The company is hopeful that the government will provide assistance to make these robots more accessible and affordable for the elderly population.

Overall, AI Robotics is making significant strides in the field of robotics with its versatile and adaptable robots. By leveraging AI technology and collaborating with other companies, they are able to develop robots that can cater to various industries and individual needs. The company's focus on domestic robots, specifically targeting the elderly and sick population, showcases their commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals in their own homes. With their fast development timeline and strong market demand, AI Robotics is poised to make a significant impact in the robotics industry.

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Sparklin: Simplifying electric car charging in common areas @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more and more common on our roads and in our garages. Even those who once stated that they would never own an EV are now taking the leap and investing in one due to rising gas prices and various rebates and tax incentives that help to reduce the overall price of the vehicles. For some, however, a definite barrier to purchase involves living and working in large buildings where it is not easy or convenient to charge. That's the problem that Sparklin is looking to solve.

Sparklin simplifies the EV charging process


The e-mobility platform offered by Sparklin is an end-to-end solution that consists of a circuit connected to a management platform for owners and an application for users. The platform is designed to make charging electric vehicles easier and smarter, particularly in scenarios where individuals live in condominiums or work for companies in large office buildings.

As electric vehicles become more and more mainstream, the need for such a platform becomes increasingly apparent. For example, in condominium settings, residents may have electric vehicles and need to charge them regularly. While there may be a charging station nearby, it can be inconvenient to either wait around for the charge to complete or have to stop what you are doing to go back and retrieve the vehicle.

Instead, Sparklin's platform allows individuals to charge their vehicles at home by plugging them into their own chargers, or shared chargers allocated at the condominium or office. This is potentially a life-changing convenience for people in this situation.

The challenges with publicly accessible charging


But even with the added convenience, there are possible challenges. One that may arise in a setting with many users might be determining who is using the charger at any given time and knowing how much electricity they are consuming. To address this issue, Sparklin offers condominiums and companies the opportunity to install chargers and access a management page. This page allows them to add users, track usage, and potentially set up a billing system. By doing so, the platform enables a fair and transparent process for charging electric vehicles in shared spaces.

The authentication process for this tracking is facilitated through a mobile application available on both Android and iOS. Users can authenticate themselves using their phones, ensuring that the correct individual is billed for the correct amount of electricity consumed. This will prevent unauthorized usage or potential theft of electricity. The platform also allows users to specify which charger they intend to use, ensuring that the charging process is seamless and efficient.

Companies can implement Sparklin, too


Another unique feature of Sparklin is the versatility and potential applications of their e-mobility platform. For example, companies can implement chargers in their parking spaces to offer charging services to employees. This allows employees to charge their vehicles during the workday, providing a convenient solution for electric vehicle owners. Additionally, companies with electric vehicle fleets can use the platform to manage and track the charging of these vehicles.

The platform also addresses the issue of employees using their personal electricity to charge company-owned electric vehicles. Sparklin's solution allows individuals to easily download reports from the app, simplifying the reimbursement process. This ensures that employees are fairly compensated for the electricity used to charge company vehicles.

Possible concerns of this platform


One of the main concerns with electric vehicle charging installations is that they can be semi-permanent and take up space, potentially damaging walls. However, the installation of Sparklin's charging solution is incredibly easy. It is essentially an outlet with an additional connected part. The device can be mounted on a wall, just like a regular outlet, and linked to the electrical network in the house or any other location. If the device needs to be removed, it can be done by removing a few screws. This ease of installation and removal makes it convenient for users and reduces the risk of damage to walls or concrete.

Another important aspect of affordable and easy electric vehicle charging is the price point. Sparklin's e-mobility platform is designed to be accessible to everyone, with a price of around $100. This affordability ensures that individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds can access sustainable and convenient charging solutions.

While fast charging infrastructure is necessary for public spaces, it is not always feasible or practical for individuals to have fast charging capabilities at home. The electrical network may not be able to handle the demand, and deploying massive infrastructure for individual fast charging would be inefficient. Therefore, having a charging solution like Sparklin's that can be easily installed at home provides a practical and sustainable option for daily charging needs.

Conclusion


To sum it all up, this interview highlights the benefits of Sparklin's e-mobility platform in simplifying the charging process for electric vehicles. By providing an end-to-end solution that includes a management platform and mobile application, the platform enables individuals in shared spaces to charge their vehicles conveniently and fairly. The authentication process ensures that the correct individual is billed for the electricity consumed, preventing unauthorized usage. Furthermore, the platform offers versatility in its applications, allowing companies to provide charging services to employees and manage company-owned electric vehicle fleets. Overall, Sparklin's e-mobility platform is a valuable tool in promoting the adoption and convenience of electric vehicles in daily life.

The availability of Sparklin's e-mobility platform is another significant aspect. During CES 2024, the platform was already available in France and was soon to be launched in the United States. To stay updated on the launch of Sparklin's e-mobility platform in the United States, interested individuals can visit the company's website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology
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Nanshee: A proactive app for harassment prevention at work @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

Yoline Eckly, the executive director at Nanshee, has introduced an application designed to tackle and prevent workplace harassment. Nanshee is a proactive solution that addresses the prevalent issue of workplace harassment, with statistics showing that one in five individuals experiences harassment.

Helping mitigate harassment in the workplace


Eckly and the company's founder have faced challenges in proving harassment incidents. Even when individuals capture evidence through photos or recordings, these forms of proof often face obstacles in court. Nanshee's application addresses this problem by providing a solution for both employers and employees. The application is designed to cater to all companies, regardless of their size. This inclusivity underscores the application's versatility and its potential to benefit organizations of various scales.

Nanshee's application is a comprehensive solution available to all companies aiming to address workplace harassment. The application provides a secure and reliable platform for capturing evidence, utilizing blockchain technology to ensure the integrity of data. This makes the software a trustworthy solution for substantiating harassment incidents. The app's seven essential functions include taking pictures, recording conversations, capturing screenshots, and scanning documents.

Security and reliability


Nanshee empowers users by allowing them to save and submit evidence with the assurance that it will be accepted by the courts. This feature positions the application as an attractive option for companies seeking to address workplace harassment as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The security and reliability of the app's technology are essential to the concept. Photos and other files are geolocated, timestamped, and stored using blockchain technology, ensuring that they cannot be tampered with or subject to fraud. Once information is stored on the blockchain, it remains there indefinitely, protecting the integrity of the data from a legal perspective.

The source of geolocation data for photos is not the EXIF data from the photos taken, but from the app itself where you take the photos. This ensures that the data is accurate and cannot be altered later. All files are securely managed off-site, so even if a user loses their phone or deletes the app, the evidence remains intact.

Conclusion: A safe and effective approach to harassment mitigation


In summary, Nanshee's proactive app aims to prevent workplace harassment by providing a secure and reliable platform for capturing evidence. By utilizing blockchain technology and ensuring the integrity of data, the app offers a solution to the challenges faced in proving harassment incidents. With its various functions, Nanshee's app empowers individuals to take action against workplace harassment and promotes a respectful and safe work environment for all.

Nanshee is currently available, enabling companies to start utilizing it immediately. The pricing structure varies depending on the industry and company size, ensuring that the application remains accessible to organizations with different budgets. For more information about the platform and to request a quote, interested parties can visit the Nanshee website. This provides a direct avenue for companies to explore how Nanshee can be implemented within their organization to foster a safer and more respectful work environment.

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Delvitech: AI-driven inspection for quality assurance @ CES 2024

2024-02-23

AI-based optical inspection for manufacturing from Delvitech is an emerging technology that aims to revolutionize the quality assurance process in various industries, particularly in electronic manufacturing. This technology utilizes artificial intelligence to inspect and identify errors or defects in the production process, ensuring that the final product meets the required standards.

AI-based optical inspection for manufacturing


Traditionally, optical inspection in manufacturing involves multiple machines and processes, each specializing in a specific step of the production line. However, with AI-based optical inspection, a single machine can be adapted to inspect various parts of the manufacturing process. This scalability offers numerous benefits to companies, including easier training for engineers, reduced spare parts and maintenance costs, and improved overall efficiency.

The Swiss-based company, Delvitech, is at the forefront of this technology. Their product utilizes AI to analyze and learn from every board that passes through the inspection process. By gathering data and monitoring the process in real time, the AI system can detect any deviations or trends that may indicate potential errors. This information is then fed back to the engineering team, allowing them to take proactive measures to prevent errors before they occur.

The benefits of using AI in manufacturing


The implications of AI-based optical inspection for manufacturing are significant. In high-volume applications, such as cell phone production or medical device manufacturing, the ability to catch errors early on can save a substantial amount of money and resources. By reducing the number of scrapped or reworked boards, companies can improve their production efficiency and reduce costs.

Furthermore, AI-based optical inspection offers a more comprehensive approach to quality assurance. Unlike traditional pass-fail systems, which only identify errors and defects, Delvitech's inspection systems can analyze trends and patterns in the production process. This proactive approach enables companies to identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring that the final product meets the highest quality standards.

The integration of AI into optical inspection for manufacturing also aligns with the global trend towards Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT). As factories become increasingly connected and automated, the ability to utilize AI to monitor and optimize production processes becomes crucial. Delvitech's optical inspection systems can seamlessly integrate into smart factories, providing real-time data analysis and feedback to improve overall efficiency and productivity.

Data collection is the key to analysis


One of the key advantages of Delvitech in manufacturing is its ability to collect and analyze vast amounts of data in real-time. AI algorithms can be trained to identify defects or anomalies in the manufacturing process, allowing for immediate corrective actions to be taken. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of faulty products reaching customers and reduces the need for costly rework or recalls.

Furthermore, Delvitech can operate at high speeds and with precision that surpasses human capabilities. This enables manufacturers to increase production rates without compromising on quality. By automating the inspection process, companies can achieve consistent and reliable results, ensuring that every product meets the required standards.

Moreover, Delvitech can learn from its own mistakes and continuously improve its performance. By analyzing data from previous inspections, the AI algorithms can identify patterns and trends, allowing for predictive maintenance and process optimization. This iterative learning process enables manufacturers to identify potential issues before they become critical, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.

Conclusion: AI is improving manufacturing processes


In conclusion, Delvitech's AI-based optical inspection for manufacturing is a game-changer in the field of quality assurance. By leveraging artificial intelligence, companies can streamline their inspection processes, reduce costs, and improve the overall quality of their products. This technology represents a significant step forward in the evolution of manufacturing, paving the way for more efficient and intelligent production systems.

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Gydtech pioneers customized personal care from selfies @ CES 2024

2024-03-15

Personalized on-demand cosmetic products are a game-changer in the beauty industry, offering consumers a uniquely tailored shopping experience for customized personal care. At CES 2024, Fred Ifergan, CEO of Gydtech, a company specializing in on-demand cosmetic products, discussed how his company provides tailored cosmetic care for shoppers through advanced AI technology.

The Selfie Solution for Personal Care


One such solution for customized personal care is the use of AI technology to analyze skin and hair conditions through a simple selfie and conversation with a chatbot. The process begins with taking a selfie, which is then analyzed by Gydtech's AI algorithms to determine the specific needs of the individual's skin and hair across a multitude of existing products. The chatbot may ask follow-up questions to gather more information and ensure accuracy. Based on this data, the technology filters out products that may not be suitable for the individual, such as those that could aggravate skin conditions like eczema. Then it recommends products that are compatible with the individual's unique characteristics and needs.

This personalized approach to beauty tech not only enhances the shopping experience for consumers but also ensures that they are using products that are truly beneficial for their skin and hair. By matching specific needs with the capabilities of various products, individuals can avoid wasting time and money on products that may not work for them.

AI for the Win for Beautiful Hair and Skin


The decision to develop personalized beauty tech solutions like this was driven by a desire to address the growing demand for individualized products and services in the beauty industry. Consumers are increasingly seeking personal care products that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. By leveraging AI technology to analyze and match individual needs with product capabilities, companies like Gydtech are able to provide a more personalized and effective shopping experience for consumers. This innovative approach allows consumers to have a one-of-a-kind product that caters specifically to their needs and preferences.

Beyond Cosmetic Care


Gydtech's personalized beauty tech solutions can also be adapted to other industries beyond cosmetics and hair care, such as fashion, pet foods, and dietary supplements, making it a versatile solution for businesses looking to better understand and provide better tailored services to their customers. By licensing or contracting with Gydtech, businesses can create a more satisfying and effective shopping experience for their own customers.

In Conclusion: AI Powered Personal Shopping Heralds New Commerce 3.0


By using AI technology to analyze skin and hair conditions, recommend products, and provide personalized recommendations, companies like Gydtech are revolutionizing the way consumers shop for skincare and cosmetics. This New Commerce 3.0 not only enhances consumer's shopping experience but also ensures that individuals are using products that are truly beneficial for their unique needs.

In addition, Gydtech's technology can be white labeled for a number of other industries, bringing personalized shopping solutions to more companies for their consumers, as well.

You can learn more about Gydtech's personal care shopping solutions at their website.

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Lighthouse Tech: Vibrational guidance for visually impaired @ CES 2024

2024-03-16

On a normal day, most of us employ all of our senses to navigate through the world. However, for the visually impaired and the blind, that is not possible. The unique experience of navigating without being able to see the complete world around them creates hazards that others do not face. This is the problem that Lighthouse Tech is trying to solve.

Smart eyewear frame for the blind


Lighthouse Tech, a Swiss startup, has developed an innovative smart eyewear frame designed to assist blind and low-vision individuals. The device employs soft vibrations on the temples to alert the wearer of obstacles above the waist area, enabling users to navigate more safely and freely without colliding with low-hanging obstacles. Importantly, the device does not obstruct users' hearing, a critical sense for those with visual impairments.

The smart eyewear frame operates by integrating various sensors embedded in the temples that actively identify objects in the user's vicinity. It alerts users to obstacles, like high tables, that might be overlooked by the traditional white cane. The device is self-contained and comes with a setup app that allows users to adjust vibration intensity and distance settings. It is designed to be user-friendly and requires no learning curve.

Established nearly two and a half years ago, Lighthouse Tech showcased prototypes at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) the previous year. The company is now poised for production and plans to launch in the summer, initially in Europe, followed by the US, Japan, and South Korea. The device is priced at approximately $1,500, but Lighthouse Tech is collaborating with insurance companies and organizations such as the Veterans Association for the Blind to help defray costs for users.

Smart glasses with advanced features


The smart glasses developed by Lighthouse Tech are equipped with a range of advanced features, making them an invaluable tool for individuals with visual impairments. They have the ability to make emergency calls, detect falls, and identify when the glasses are damaged or not being worn correctly. These features offer users added safety and security, providing peace of mind as they navigate their surroundings.

Another notable feature of the smart glasses is their long battery life. The rechargeable battery can last for two to three days, allowing users to wear them throughout the day and charge them at night. This ensures that the glasses are always ready for use, eliminating the worry of running out of power.

The design of the smart glasses is also commendable. They are designed to be worn like regular glasses, with customizable lenses to suit individual needs. This design eliminates any social awkwardness associated with wearing bulky assistive devices, enabling users to feel comfortable and confident while using the technology.

Conclusion: Tactile feedback gives safer navigation


Lighthouse Tech has received positive feedback at events such as CES. The significant press coverage and interest from visitors indicate a growing demand for innovative assistive technologies that can enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.

In summary, Lighthouse Tech's smart eyewear frame offers a unique and innovative solution for blind and low vision individuals, enabling them to navigate their surroundings more safely and independently. The device's ability to detect obstacles and alert users through temple vibrations underscores the potential of assistive technologies to enhance the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. As technology advances and the focus on assistive tech grows, devices like the smart eyewear frame are leading the way towards a more inclusive and accessible future.

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.simstechnology: How technology can protect you from behind @ CES 2024

2024-03-16

Personal safety wearable devices have become increasingly popular in recent years as concerns about personal safety and security have grown. These devices are designed to help individuals protect themselves from potential threats and dangers, especially when they are alone or in vulnerable situations. One such innovative device is a rear-facing camera developed by .simstechnology out of Rhode Island.

Personal safety wearable device innovation


The company's devices are personal safety wearable devices that are designed to detect a human approaching from behind. This innovative technology aims to prevent assaults from behind by alerting the wearer when someone is approaching them. The devices are equipped with cameras and algorithms that can detect the presence of a person at a distance of 45 feet and alert the wearer when the person is within 25 feet. This gives the wearer enough time to assess the situation and determine if there is a potential threat.

The wearable cameras, both V1 and V2, are equipped with high frame rate cameras that continuously capture still frames at 15 frames per second. By analyzing these frames, the device can detect if a person is approaching from behind within a 25-foot radius. Once a potential threat is detected, the device sends an alert to the user's phone or smartwatch, allowing them to take action by pressing an SOS button or notifying their chosen contacts. The device also stores the photos along with GPS coordinates, ensuring that crucial information is available in the event of an emergency.

The .simstechnology devices utilize LIDAR technology to detect and recognize potential threats, such as humans, animals, and objects approaching from behind. This advanced technology allows the device to work effectively in both daylight and complete darkness, providing users with a sense of security at all times. Additionally, the devices can be attached to various items such as backpacks, waistbands, collars, hats, and running harnesses, making it versatile and accessible for different individuals and situations.

One of the key features of these devices is their ability to function even in areas with limited connectivity. While the device may not be able to send all data immediately, it can still alert the user and send a text message indicating a potential threat. Once data connectivity is restored, the device can push all stored information to the cloud, providing a comprehensive account of the situation to the user's contacts.

What sets the devices apart from other personal safety wearable devices is their ability to take into account the speed at which a person is approaching. The devices can differentiate between someone who is simply passing by and someone who is approaching with malicious intent. This feature allows the wearer to react and defend themselves if necessary.

Where did the idea come from?


The development of the devices was inspired by the personal experience of Sean Siembab, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being assaulted from behind. This experience motivated him to create a solution that could help others avoid similar incidents. Through his company, .simstechnology, Siembab has obtained three utility patents for the devices, ensuring that they are protected and can be brought to market to help save lives.

The innovation behind the devices highlights the importance of personal safety and the need for wearable technology that can provide individuals with an added layer of protection. As incidents of assaults and attacks continue to occur, especially against women, the demand for such devices is only expected to grow. The devices represent a significant step forward in personal safety technology and demonstrate how innovation can be driven by personal experiences and a desire to make the world a safer place.

Conclusion: A small way to stay safe outside


In conclusion, the development of personal safety wearable devices like the devices by .simstechnology showcases the power of innovation in addressing real-world problems. These devices have the potential to make a significant impact in improving personal safety and security for individuals, especially those who may be at risk of assaults or attacks. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial that we continue to explore new ways to leverage it for the greater good and create solutions that can help protect and empower individuals in their daily lives.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.
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