Gadget Makers Showcase Exciting Range of Products Utilizing Generative AI at CES 2024
The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is set to feature a wide range of products utilizing generative artificial intelligence (AI) as gadget makers race to find consumer uses for the technology. Despite the absence of OpenAI boss Sam Altman, whose start-up created a fever around generative AI, the influence of the company will be felt throughout the event. This resonates with the influence of Apple and its founder Steve Jobs, who often avoided the show but still had a significant impact on its attendees.
With dozens of companies planning to announce their AI-integrated gadgets at CES 2024, there is great anticipation for the revolutionary applications of generative AI. These applications include devices for the visually impaired, safety systems involving guns at schools, facial-recognition software capable of assessing vitals, and cabin-monitoring systems in autonomous cars.
Generative AI projects received a significant boost in funding last year, reaching a staggering $23.8 billion by December 2023, a fivefold increase from the previous year. The tech industry has been caught up in an AI frenzy, making it an essential component of every product developed. Maribel Lopez, a tech analyst at Lopez Research, states, It’s the year of AI in everything. If you don’t have AI in your product, don’t show up, it’s not worth talking about.
CES 2024 will see the unveiling of various AI-infused gadgets designed to enhance security, well-being, and the overall driving experience. Bosch, a German company, is expected to showcase a near-invisible gun-detection system that combines video and audio AI for proactive security measures in schools. Meanwhile, NEC from Japan will introduce AI software that analyzes face patterns and pupil conditions to estimate human vitals and mental state using mobile devices.
Automakers are also focusing on integrating AI into their vehicles to create a hyper-personalized driving experience for customers. The goal is to differentiate themselves in the market and provide an exceptional level of customer service. Cerence, a company specializing in AI-powered virtual assistants, will announce a partnership with Volkswagen, while Israel-based Cipia plans to unveil a system that monitors signs of distraction and drowsiness in drivers. Amazon.com has also announced a generative AI partnership with BMW, although details are being kept under wraps until the show.
The adoption of AI by automakers goes beyond enhancing the driving experience. Wendy Bauer, Vice President of Automotive and Manufacturing at Amazon Web Services, explains that AI can help reduce costs throughout the production process by accelerating vehicle development and improving quality checks.
Apart from the automotive industry, PC and smartphone manufacturers will showcase how their products utilize AI. Chip makers such as Intel and AMD are banking on AI to provide a new revenue stream. Microsoft, in particular, has announced that PCs featuring a new AI button on the Windows keyboard will be on display at CES 2024.
However, it remains uncertain whether consumers will be willing to pay extra for AI capabilities on their computers. While ChatGPT, an OpenAI creation, has been well-received by consumers, the benefits of having AI on devices for everyday tasks are not as apparent. Jay Goldberg, CEO of D2D Advisory, explains, Consumers love ChatGPT, but the consumer benefit of having it on a device isn’t clear. That’s why everyone is going to talk about it–because everyone is scrambling for the consumer utility.
As CES 2024 approaches, the excitement surrounding generative AI is palpable. Gadget makers are leveraging this technology to create innovative products that cater to various consumer needs. From smart devices aiding the visually impaired to advanced safety systems and personalized driving experiences, the possibilities of generative AI seem endless. CES 2024 promises to be a platform for showcasing these groundbreaking developments, where attendees can witness firsthand the future of AI integrated into everyday gadgets.
