Generative AI Gadgets Fail to Impress at CES 2023, While the Automotive Sector Shows Promise
The recently held CES 2023 showcased a range of innovative gadgets powered by generative AI. However, many of these devices failed to live up to the hype, leaving investors disappointed with their lackluster performance. On the other hand, the automobile industry managed to steal the spotlight by integrating AI technology into their vehicles.
Companies that aimed to bring AI disruption to various industries struggled to translate the excitement surrounding large language models, such as ChatGPT, into tangible gadgets. Jay Goldberg, CEO of D2D Advisory, acknowledged that they are still in the process of making it all work, as it has only been a year since ChatGPT launched. The challenge lies in developing the necessary silicon and software to bring these AI gadgets to life.
While financial returns are expected from the billions of dollars invested in the generative AI sector, profits are far from guaranteed, particularly in the nascent device sector. Humane, an AI gadget startup, had to lay off 10 employees ahead of the launch of its AI-powered gadget designed to replace smartphones. It cited the need for restructuring as the reason behind the setback.
Amidst the disappointment surrounding generative AI gadgets, the automobile industry showcased promising advancements. Volkswagen demonstrated vehicles equipped with a voice assistant integrating ChatGPT’s technology. This voice assistant enables drivers to listen to research content on the road. However, it is worth noting that ChatGPT has a tendency to provide erroneous information, prompting Mercedes-Benz to develop a virtual assistant that cross-references its responses with data from Google for greater accuracy.
China-based company Mojie impressed attendees by unveiling augmented reality glasses with plastic lenses that can connect to a smartphone. These glasses feature a button on the frames that activates ChatGPT, displaying responses to queries within the user’s field of view. This innovation opens up new possibilities for consumer applications of generative AI.
Rabbit, an AI startup, presented a standalone gadget called the R1, similar to voice assistants offered by Amazon.com and Google. The device utilizes a large action model to control apps and garnered significant attention, selling 10,000 units in just one day.
Looking ahead to CES next year, Accenture analyst Syed Alam predicts an increase in the number of gadgets and products incorporating generative AI. With more time for development, companies are expected to introduce handheld devices capable of generative AI, possibly even operating offline.
In conclusion, generative AI gadgets faced a lackluster response at CES 2023, dampening expectations for immediate financial returns. However, the automobile industry showcased promising integrations of AI technology into their vehicles. With more time for development, future CES events are likely to witness a greater influx of AI-powered gadgets in various sectors.
