The show floor at CES 2024 opened on Tuesday, and enthusiasts have been exploring Las Vegas’ expansive convention centers and hotel ballrooms to witness the latest and quirkiest tech products. The Engadget team has been actively engaging with various demos, overcoming both vehicular and human traffic to experience firsthand the most intriguing innovations. Meanwhile, companies have continued to host press conferences and unveil new items. For those who may not have the time to sift through every headline or are currently in Vegas and seeking guidance on where to go, here’s a recap of the major news from the second day of CES 2024.
Google, a perennially prominent presence at the show, showcased significant updates and announcements. Following its theme of “Better Together” from previous years, Google introduced enhancements to inter-device software like Fast Pair. It also revealed a collaboration with Samsung to integrate and rename its Nearby Share feature as Quick Share, aligning with Samsung’s existing version. This move aims to simplify the user experience for Android users and provide a more cohesive alternative to Apple’s AirDrop. While details about changes for Samsung users were limited, those with Nearby Share should anticipate seeing a new icon soon.
In addition, Google announced the ability to Chromecast TikTok videos to compatible TVs and screens. The company is set to bring its apps to select Ford, Nissan, and Lincoln vehicles later in the year. Furthermore, Android Auto will enable sharing of electric vehicle battery levels with Google Maps, incorporating recharge stations, charge times, and stops into route planning. This feature bears resemblance to a capability in Apple’s next-gen CarPlay.
At CES 2024, Honda introduced new electric vehicle (EV) concepts called the Saloon and the Space Hub. The Saloon is a sleek sedan with an aerodynamic design that rides close to the ground. On the other hand, the Space Hub is a minivan featuring a boxier design, with seats arranged to face each other. Honda has announced plans to develop a model based on the Saloon concept car specifically for North American markets, with an expected release in 2026. There is no information yet regarding the fate of the Space Hub concept.
In the realm of transportation, Hyundai showcased an updated version of its S-A2 Air Taxi. This electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle boasts a cruising speed of 120 mph at an altitude of 1,500 feet. Designed for short trips covering distances between 25 to 40 miles, Hyundai envisions the S-A2 as an everyday transportation solution for urban areas.
Beyond Google, other companies in the smart home sector made announcements at CES 2024. Amazon revealed its adoption of the Matter standard for Casting but clarified that it won’t support Chromecast or Apple’s AirPlay. The event also featured the introduction of innovative smart home products, including face-scanning and palm-reading door locks, smart outdoor lights by Nanoleaf, and a new Weber Searwood smart grill that offers enhanced affordability and versatility.
In the realm of mobile technology, CES 2024 has brought forth some interesting developments. The Clicks iPhone keyboard case has garnered attention, offering a unique keyboard experience for iPhone users. Another noteworthy device is the Rabbit R1, described as an AI-powered assistant in the form of an adorable squarish walkie-talkie co-designed by Teenage Engineering. Equipped with a small 2.88-inch touchscreen, an analog scroll wheel, two microphones, a speaker, and a 360-degree camera that can be spun to face either the user or the back of the device, the Rabbit R1 allows users to interact with the Rabbit AI by pushing a button, akin to using a walkie-talkie. Users can instruct the Rabbit AI to perform tasks such as booking an Uber or finding a recipe tailored to specific ingredients.
While CES 2024 has showcased a myriad of technological innovations, it’s also important to highlight intriguing accessibility products. The OrCam Hear system, designed to assist individuals with hearing loss in isolating specific speakers’ voices in crowded environments, is one such product. Additionally, the GyroGlove, a hand-stabilizing glove designed for people with hand tremors, and the Mouthpad, which enables control of phones, tablets, or laptops using the tongue, demonstrate the ongoing efforts to make technology more accessible and inclusive.
The ongoing developments in assistive technology showcased at CES 2024 continue to make strides towards inclusivity and accessibility. An update to the Audio Radar system was presented, offering visual cues for gamers with hearing difficulties to discern the direction and type of sounds in their gaming environment. This emphasis on assistive technology is a positive reflection on the industry, especially considering the significant resources often allocated to other less impactful endeavors.
As CES 2024 approaches its conclusion, the Engadget team is gearing up for final sweeps of the show floor. Reflecting on the innovations witnessed, the team is in the process of compiling the Best of CES awards list, recognizing and celebrating the standout contributions and advancements from the event. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winners to discover the most noteworthy technologies and innovations from CES 2024.
