Researchers at the University of Michigan have made a significant breakthrough in addressing the rapid degradation of perovskite semiconductors, a development that could potentially lead to solar cells that are two to four times less expensive than current thin-film solar panels. Perovskite solar cells, while more environmentally friendly than their silicon-based counterparts, suffer from a shorter lifespan due to degradation when exposed to heat, moisture, and air.

To enhance the stability and overall lifespan of perovskite solar cells, the researchers focused on identifying molecules that could prevent rapid degradation. They found that bulky “defect pacifying” molecules were particularly effective in increasing the stability of perovskite films. These molecules, when added to the perovskite crystals, prevented defects from forming at high temperatures, thus enhancing the material’s durability.

Credit: Zhengtao Hu, Gong Lab, University of Michigan

The researchers created three additives with different shapes and sizes, each containing similar chemical building blocks. Larger molecules, by mass, demonstrated better interaction with perovskite crystals, effectively preventing the formation of defects. However, the study also revealed that the size and configuration of the additives were crucial.

Bulky molecules were found to be the most effective, as they not only interacted strongly with perovskite but also forced the formation of larger perovskite grains during manufacturing. Larger grains resulted in lower densities of grain boundaries, reducing the areas where defects could form.

The discovery opens the possibility of creating more cost-effective and durable solar energy solutions by combining perovskites with silicon-based semiconductors, potentially surpassing the maximum theoretical efficiency of silicon solar cells; These findings provide valuable insights into designing additives for perovskite solar cells, moving away from time-consuming trial-and-error methods.

Chinese startup Betavolt claims to have developed an innovative nuclear battery that could potentially power smartphones for 50 years without requiring recharging; The Beijing-based company asserts that their atomic energy battery is the first to achieve the miniaturization of atomic energy, fitting 63 nuclear isotopes into a module smaller than a coin. The technology converts the energy released by decaying isotopes into electricity, marking a significant advancement in energy innovation.

Betavolt’s nuclear battery is undergoing pilot testing, with plans for mass production for various commercial applications such as phones and drones. The company envisions its atomic energy batteries being utilized in aerospace, AI equipment, medical devices, microprocessors, advanced sensors, small drones, and micro-robots, positioning China at the forefront of the AI technological revolution.

The nuclear battery’s design brings advantages such as lightweight construction, a long service life, high energy density, and the ability to function under extreme temperatures from -76 to 248 Fº (-60 to 120 degrees Celsius ). The modular design allows for multiple atomic batteries to be connected, providing higher energy output for applications like automotive technology and AI systems.

Betavolt’s Battery has a modular design that allows multiple atomic batteries to be connected.

Addressing concerns about radiation, Betavolt asserts that its battery is safe, with no external radiation, making it suitable for use in medical devices inside the human body, such as pacemakers and cochlear implants. After the decay period, the radioactive isotopes transform into a stable, non-radioactive isotope of copper, posing no environmental threat.

Goodbye, chargers?!

This innovation could revolutionize electronics by eliminating the need for chargers and portable power banks, potentially leading to devices that run continuously without the degradation of battery capacity and lifespan over charging cycles, as seen in conventional Li-ion batteries.

If successful, the nuclear battery could enable continuous operation for devices such as drones, phones, and electric cars, marking a transformative development in power supply technology.

Samsung just announced its latest flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus, and S24 Ultra, offering a compelling combination of hardware and AI features.

While lacking some features of the Ultra variant, the rest of the S24 lineup shares a common suite of AI capabilities, emphasizing Samsung’s focus on AI technology this year; The AI features, powered by Google’s Gemini foundational models, include advanced voice notes transcription, real-time translations for calls and messages in 13 languages, and a unique “tone tweak” feature allowing users to adjust the tone of written text.

Samsung promises seven generations of OS upgrades and security updates across the S24 series, aligning with Google’s support period for its Pixel 8 lineup. The phones feature Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processors in the US, ensuring similar performance for on-device AI functions. Samsung has also improved the display sizes and brightness, offering 6.2 inches (for the S24) and 6.7 inches (for the S24 Plus), with peak brightness reaching 2,600 nits.

Camera specifications remain unchanged from the previous year, featuring triple-camera setups with notable software enhancements like improved HDR support in third-party social apps. The S24 series introduces generative AI-powered image and video editing tools, allowing users to manipulate photos and turn any video into a 120fps slow-motion video after recording.

Hardware improvements include larger, brighter screens, a resolution boost to 1440p for the S24 Plus, and increased battery capacities.

Galaxy S24 Series Specifications

Galaxy S24

Galaxy S24 Plus

Galaxy S24 Ultra

Availability and Price

The S24 ($799.99)  and S24 Plus ($999.99) will offer a choice between Snapdragon and Exynos processors, depending on the region. Both are made of aluminum. The Galaxy S24 Ultra ($1,299) on the other hand, boasts additional premium features, including a titanium frame for enhanced durability, a flat 6.8-inch display, and camera improvements, making it a top-tier choice for consumers. All phones are set to release on January 31st.

During CES 2024 ASUS introduced the Zenbook DUO (2024) UX8406, claiming the title of the world’s first ultraportable laptop equipped with dual 14-inch 3K 120 Hz OLED touchscreens. This device, part of the Intel Evo Edition, sets a new standard for on-the-go versatility with its detachable full-size Bluetooth ASUS ErgoSense keyboard and touchpad.

Weighing 1.35 kg, the Zenbook DUO promises multitasking flexibility with outstanding mobility — The dual 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED displays, featuring a lay-flat 180° hinge, can extend the visual workspace up to a substantial 19.8 inches; The user modes, (including Laptop, Dual Screen, Desktop, and Sharing), are managed by the ASUS ScreenXpert software, and the detachable keyboard allows for a traditional clamshell laptop experience when placed on the lower display.

This machine features an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with an integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI acceleration, up to 32 GB of LPDDR5x memory, and up to a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Its 75 Wh battery, coupled with Harman Kardon-certified Dolby Atmos audio, aims to enhance the on-the-go user experience.

The brand talked about sustainability, saying that the laptop incorporates recycled materials (90% post-industrial-recycled magnesium-aluminum alloy), surpassing ENERGY STAR power-efficiency requirements by up to 43%. The laptop’s packaging is made from 100% recyclable FSC Mix-certified and FSC Recycled paper. Contributing to its sustainability, the laptop undergoes durability testing to meet US MIL-STD-810H standards.

The ASUS Lumina OLED displays are Dolby Vision certified, Pantone Validated, and offer a cinema-grade 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, ensuring vivid and accurate color rendering. The touchscreens support high-precision stylus input using the optional ASUS Pen with 4096 pressure levels.

Talking about the various user modes, we have ones such as Dual Screen mode for expansive viewing, Desktop mode for side-by-side portrait screens, Laptop mode for traditional use, and Sharing mode for collaborative presentations.

In terms of connectivity, the device brings Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, an HDMI 2.1 (TMDS) port, and a 3.5 mm audio jack, minimizing the need for additional adapters.

Availability and Price

The 2024 version of the Zenbook Duo is expected to start at $1,499 in the US, while in the UK and Europe prices start at £1,699.99 and €2,099.99 respectively, hitting the stores “later in Q1”.

At CES 2024, MSI unveiled its latest handheld gaming device, the MSI Claw, positioned as an innovative addition to the growing family of compact PC gaming devices. Sporting an Intel Core Ultra processor with the latest Intel Arc integrated graphics, it distinguishes itself as the first Meteor Lake-powered model in this category.

Designed with portability in mind, the MSI Claw features built-in grips and game controls surrounding a 7-inch screen tailored for on-the-go gaming. Drawing inspiration from the Valve Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally, MSI has incorporated SoCs ranging from the Intel Core Ultra 5 135H CPU to the top configuration’s Core Ultra 7 155H.

Weighing relatively less than its counterparts, the Claw addresses potential overheating concerns with a well-ventilated chassis, leveraging dual cooling fans. The 7-inch display boasts a full HD resolution with touch input and a game-friendly 120Hz refresh rate, catering to older or less demanding games typical for handheld systems.

In terms of battery life, the Claw comes equipped with a 53Wh battery, claiming a promising two hours of gameplay under heavy load.

Functioning as a Windows 11 PC, it utilizes the MSI Center M interface for a touch-friendly menu, supporting popular game store options such as Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Ubisoft, EA, and Epic.

Connectivity

The device offers connectivity options, including a Thunderbolt 4 port, MicroSD card slot, audio combination headset jack, and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for secure logins.

MSI plans to provide a desktop stand, functioning as a Thunderbolt hub, enabling charging and offering a full-size HDMI port and USB connections. This allows users to transform the handheld into a desktop experience with external displays, keyboards, and mice.

Availability and Price

The MSI Claw will be available in various configurations, with the base model starting at $699 featuring an Intel Core Ultra 5 135H CPU and 512GB of SSD storage. A more powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 model will also be offered at $749 (512GB) or $799 (1TB SSD). While a firm retail availability date is yet to be announced, representatives suggest it will be in the coming months.

TDK was demonstrating its latest motion and direction sensing solution at CES 2024. Its “Super high accuracy position sensing solution” uses three sensing mechanisms to know how devices move in space and in which direction they are pointing.

Note: In the photo above, the screen shows a top view of the object I hold in my hand. The position and orientation are accurately tracked in real time.

These three mechanisms are a Gyroscope (orientation), an Accelerometer (relative position), and the Tunnel Magneto-Resistance, also known as TMR (also linked to orientation). By using all three in combination, TDK can vastly improve the accuracy at any given time, especially when it comes to the orientation of the device, in my opinion.

Here, the Gyroscope and Accelerometer (6-axis) are integrated into a TDK ICM-456xy chip, while the TMR (3-axis) is a standalone module that probably has one TMR per X, Y, and Z axis inside. Note that TMR should not be confused with a Magnetometer, which is typically used for Compass-type applications.

Think about all the times you have tried to use a mapping application on your handset and the phone’s orientation has been completely wrong. That’s so frustrating because you now have to walk for a few yards or more to see if you are heading in the right direction. It’s a hard problem to solve, so phones often don’t get this right and need visual help, such as Google’s “Live View” feature in Google Maps.

TDK assures us that its SmartMotion + TMR solution would make this behavior a thing of the past and that your TDK-powered sensor would always indicate a correct orientation out of the box without requiring frequent calibration.

This technology can also improve positional information coming from the motion sensor because the TMR’s data can be fused with inputs from the Accelerometer and the Gyroscope to provide an additional data point used to correct positional drift, a common problem when using Accelerometer and Gyroscope without TMR. Although drift issues would not completely disappear, they can be drastically reduced.

Everything required to provide high-quality motion and orientation data is embedded in the chips, including sensors, computing power, and algorithms (software).

As you can imagine, any application that requires accurate positional and orientation data might benefit from this TDK technology, and the company’s officially supported application is as follows: “IoT, Navigation, Industrial application, Wearables, Smartphones, Activity Monitors, Smart Watches, Drones, Toys, Sports Applications.”

We’re back from CES 2024, and what a show it was! This year’s edition was once again full of new, exciting consumer electronics, new technologies, and groundbreaking ideas. As usual, seeing as much as possible was a challenge, but we were equally amazed by big-name products and startups alike. Selecting our preferred products and technology is never easy, but here are Ubergizmo’s Best of CES, in no particular order:

Withings BeamO

The Withings BeamO is a groundbreaking 4-in-1 health checkup device following the success of Thermo Smart. This compact “multiscope” combines ECG, oximeter, stethoscope, and thermometer sensors, revolutionizing at-home health monitoring and telehealth visits. Smaller than a smartphone, BeamO transforms the traditional thermometer into a comprehensive tool for heart and lung health monitoring. It addresses post-pandemic telemedicine limitations by integrating four medical devices into one, providing a secure health record through seamless Wi-Fi sync with the Withings app.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid

The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is an innovative laptop with a dual-processor and dual-OS system. It lets users detach the display and use it as a full Android tablet. The Hybrid comprises the laptop base running on Windows 11 with an Intel Ultra Core processor and a detachable tablet operating on Android with a Qualcomm Soc. The components can work independently or collaboratively, seamlessly transitioning between Windows and Android environments. The versatile device supports various modes, including Windows 11 Laptop, Hybrid Stream, and Android Tablet with Keyboard mode. Packed with powerful hardware, it features Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, Intel Arc graphics, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, and a 75 Whr battery. The detachable tablet boasts Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen1, 12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, and a 38 Whr battery.

LG signature OLED T transparent TV

The new LG Signature OLED T is the “world’s first wireless transparent TV.” This surprising design integrates a 77-inch 4K OLED display into a stylish shelf case, transforming it into furniture when turned off. The transparent viewing mode offers impressive image quality. The TV features LG’s flagship α (Alpha) 11 AI processor for enhanced performance, modular design for flexible installation, and a custom smart TV interface with a T-Bar for added functionality. While the price and availability remain undisclosed, LG aims to cater to consumer preferences for customization options around the TV panel.

Samsung Music Frame

The new Samsung Music lineup aims to redefine home entertainment by seamlessly blending top-tier picture quality with premium features, prioritizing connectivity, and personalized experiences. A notable addition is The Music Frame, a customizable speaker inspired by The Frame, resembling a modern picture frame capable of displaying art. Key features include built-in woofers for enhanced audio quality, intelligent audio processing for optimal sound output, and Q-Symphony technology for surround sound. Samsung highlights the devices’ role as the centrepiece of users’ homes, fostering connectivity and a flexible lifestyle.

GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker

The GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker with Active Smoke Filtration is an award-winning innovation. This indoor smoker, recognized by CES, enables the infusion of outdoor smoked flavors into food without needing outdoor spaces or favorable weather. The Active Smoke Filtration technology transforms real-wood smoke into flavor-rich warm air. Designed for countertop convenience, it features a unique airflow system, custom controls, and effective seals. André Zdanow, GE Appliances’ Executive Director of Small Appliances, believes the product will revolutionize smoking food, offering accessibility and flexibility. It provides a convenient way to enjoy traditional smoking flavors at home.

The Portable Monitor Foldable Solutions For Multi-Screen Laptops

Monitors that can
turn Laptops into 5-screen powerhouses.

The Portable Monitor company unveiled three new products that transform the laptop workspace. The Twins (24″) is a foldable 24-inch monitor, emphasizing flexibility and innovation for professionals who need a larger screen without compromising portability. The Flex (14″), priced at $599.00, offers a dual 14-inch portable monitor for dynamic professionals seeking efficiency on the go. The Mono (15.6″), priced at $349.00, caters to light-traveling customers with its compact tablet-like format. CEO Laurent Wéry expresses excitement about transforming static desktop monitors into easily transportable solutions.

Hyundai Supernal S-A2 eVTOL

Supernal LLC, Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) subsidiary, unveiled its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle, the S-A2, at CES 2024. Designed for urban commuting, the pilot-plus-four-passenger aircraft features distributed electric propulsion, ensuring quiet operation and adherence to global aviation standards for safety. Scheduled to enter the market in 2028, Supernal plans to leverage Hyundai’s mass production capabilities for cost-effective manufacturing. The S-A2 prioritizes sustainability, passenger comfort, and modularity, with an aesthetic blend of design and functionality.

Ecoflow Delta Ultra Pro Ultra

EcoFlow Technology Inc. revealed the new DELTA Pro Ultra at CES 2024, a smart hybrid whole-house battery generator. Acknowledged with a 2024 CES Innovation Award, this high-capacity residential power backup system offers a 6kWh unit, 7200W output, and 5.6kW solar input. Its stackable design allows easy expansion and is compatible with solar and gas. Paired with the Smart Home Panel 2, it optimizes energy use, scaling up to 21.6kW output. Charging options include AC power, solar panels, and gas generators, ensuring flexibility and extended backup. The user-friendly design caters to diverse needs, emphasizing simplicity and accessibility.

XPENG AEROHT – eVTOL Flying Car

The Xpeng Aeroht eVTOL Flying Car, a revolutionary supercar concept, combines ground and air travel with retractable propellers for vertical take-offs and landings. Marketed as Asia’s largest flying car company, Xpeng Aeroht aims to address the demand for short-distance, low-altitude travel. Despite not flying at CES, the vehicle showcased its opening mechanism. The dual-mode cockpit accommodates two passengers, featuring both a square steering wheel/yoke and a joystick for control. Xpeng Aeroht’s co-founder, Wang Tan, highlights the desire for a unique aerial perspective, emphasizing the allure of soaring above traffic congestion.

Varjo XR-4 series VR headset

Ubergizmo co-founder Eliane Fiolet testing the Varjo XR-4 at CES 2024

Finnish tech company Varjo introduced the Varjo XR-4 series headsets, delivering virtual and mixed-reality experiences with extremely high resolution. The XR-4 merge high-res displays, advanced LiDAR depth sensing, and cameras for human-eye-like functions. Eye tracking enables automatic IPD adjustment and dynamic foveated rendering. Targeting industrial users, the XR-4 series, integrates with Nvidia Omniverse for photorealistic scenes and ray tracing. Supporting over 100 third-party applications, including Unreal Engine and Unity, it caters to diverse industries like training, healthcare, and design. The XR-4 series boasts dual 4K displays, real-time photorealistic video pass-through, improved LiDAR resolution, and more.

Acer Predator Helios 18, Eighteen-Inch Gaming Laptop

Acer unveiled the upgraded Predator Helios 18 during CES 2024, a formidable gaming laptop in their 2024 lineup. Powered by the latest Intel Core 14th Gen processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPUs, it boasts DLSS 3.5 technology and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus for superior AI-driven graphics. Featuring an Intel Core i9 processor 14900HX, the laptop adopts a performance hybrid architecture, excelling in demanding games and software. Advanced thermal solutions, Mini LED display panels, RGB lighting effects, and innovative features like MagKey 3.0 contribute to a personalized gaming experience. Acer’s AI-driven technologies and Windows 11 integration further enhance the laptop’s capabilities. The Predator Helios 18 will be available in North America in March.

GE Profile has just unveiled the GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker with Active Smoke Filtration at CES 2024. This innovative indoor smoker, a CES Innovation Awards Honoree, brings the outdoor flavor of smoked food indoors, eliminating the need for extensive time commitments, outdoor spaces, or favorable weather.

The GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker utilizes Active Smoke Filtration technology, converting real-wood smoke into flavor-packed warm air through a catalyst system. This indoor smoker, a first of its kind, offers countertop convenience, with a unique airflow system, custom controls, and effective gaskets and seals to keep the smoke contained within the appliance.

Designed for both novice and professional users, the smoker allows separate adjustment of smoke intensity and temperature for customized flavor. With five adjustable smoke settings, users can control smoke levels, explore barbeque favorites, and experiment with new recipes. The appliance includes six preset food settings for items like brisket, pork ribs, chicken wings, and salmon, with a customizable option for other dishes.

The GE Profile SmartSmoker comes with 6 Presets of food settings.

André Zdanow, Executive Director of Small Appliances at GE Appliances, expressed confidence that the product will revolutionize smoking food, making it accessible to a broader audience. The GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker not only simplifies the smoking process but also offers flexibility for various cooking scenarios.

Additional features include Smoke and Hold with an Auto Warm setting, GE Profile Connect+ for remote monitoring via the SmartHQ app, a small footprint with a large capacity, and easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe, removable racks, and drip trays. The smoker comes with a cookbook by Chef Dallas McGarity, a temperature probe, and co-branded GE Profile and Kona pellets.

GE Profile SmartSmoker’s 5 different Smoke Levels.

Availability and Price

The Indoor Smoker, initially developed at FirstBuild through crowdfunding, received significant support and has now graduated to the GE Profile brand. It will be available nationwide with a suggested retail price of $999, offering consumers a convenient and efficient way to enjoy the flavors of traditional smoking from the comfort of their kitchen.

We saw the GE

The product will be showcased at CES at the GE Appliances booth #53317 in The Venetian Las Vegas.

Supernal LLC, Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) subsidiary, debuted its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle product concept, S-A2, at CES 2024. Building on its earlier vision concept, S-A1, introduced in CES 2020, Supernal aims to pioneer safe, efficient, and affordable everyday air travel for urban commuters.

The S-A2 is a pilot-plus-four-passenger V-tail aircraft designed to cruise at 120 miles per hour at a 1,500-foot altitude, catering to typical city operation needs for trips ranging from 25 to 40 miles. The vehicle employs distributed electric propulsion with eight tilting rotors, ensuring a quiet operation of 65 dB during vertical take-off and landing and 45 dB while cruising horizontally.

Safety is a priority, adhering to global commercial aviation standards with a robust airframe structure and redundancy in critical systems.

Supernal plans to enter the market in 2028 and leverage Hyundai’s mass production capabilities to manufacture the vehicle cost-effectively. The design prioritizes sustainability, passenger comfort, and modularity, allowing for battery upgrades as technology advances.

Collaborating with Hyundai Motor Group’s automotive designers, Supernal crafted the S-A2’s aesthetics, emphasizing a blend of design and functionality to enhance the AAM passenger experience. The vehicle’s interior features distinct color palettes, aviation-grade, energy-absorbing components, and lighting transitions for visual cues during different flight phases.

Displayed at CES 2024, the Supernal Vertiport exhibition showcases the S-A2 in an operational setting—attendees can explore the vehicle, experience a simulated flight over Los Angeles, learn about potential flight networks, and understand the role of vertiports in facilitating seamless integration with existing transit options.

Supernal’s holistic vision for AAM envisions vertiports as key elements, serving as origin, transfer, and destination points for eVTOL aircraft operations, promising enhanced mobility beyond existing ground infrastructure capabilities. What’s your opinion about the S-A2? We’re excited to see where this project is going shortly!

Qualcomm’s ongoing collaborations with industry partners are driving advancements in automotive services, focusing on software-defined vehicle architectures.

During the CES 2024, the company showed that the evolution towards more centralized, cloud-connected processing resources enables faster development cycles and data-driven intelligence in vehicles, allowing for contextually relevant travel experiences through intelligent in-vehicle assistants, and making proactive service recommendations based on user preferences and circumstances.

The collaboration between Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and industry leaders aims to deliver a comprehensive platform for connected services throughout vehicles’ 15 to 20-year lifespan. The initiative encompasses consumer and enterprise drivers, passengers, automakers, fleet managers, and mobility service providers, creating a winning outcome for the entire automotive ecosystem.

Qualcomm is addressing the need for personalized in-vehicle experiences through collaborations with Salesforce, connecting Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions (mentioned before as a feature included on the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ) with Salesforce Automotive Cloud. This collaboration enables automakers to have a real-time view of driver and vehicle data, facilitating personalized experiences for drivers online, in the car, and at the dealership.

The integration of AI at the edge is a key focus, with Snapdragon Car-to-Cloud Services supporting enterprise plugins and large language model operations in collaboration with Cognizant. The goal is to provide contextually relevant and personalized services within the vehicle, enhancing the automotive experience while prioritizing data security and privacy.

Additionally, Qualcomm is collaborating with J.P. Morgan to simplify in-vehicle payments through an integrated wallet, offering a seamless and secure payment experience for various services worldwide.

In the realm of auto insurance, Qualcomm’s identity management and authentication platform, leveraging Daon’s digital identity and biometric technology, offers new options. This solution enables insurance companies to extend policies to any vehicle, offering flexibility for users to purchase usage-based coverage and creating new revenue streams for insurers.

Qualcomm’s partnerships extend to fleet management solutions, where DRIMAES leverages Snapdragon Car-to-Cloud Services to enhance operational efficiency for automakers and fleet managers. The platform streamlines logistics, provides live position and sensor tracking, and offers insights into vehicle usage.

The future of automotive development is highlighted through continuous software-driven advancements, empowering automakers to introduce premium features, functionality, and services. Qualcomm’s collaborations with technology companies like Wink and Carota aim to leverage biometrics and intelligent solutions for user personalization and fleet management, contributing to innovative experiences and business models in the automotive industry. To know more about, it click here.

HP is launching its new OMEN Transcend laptops this week at CES 2024, and you’ll have a choice of going smaller (but not less powerful) with the new 14-inch machine — The HP OMEN Transcend 14 debuted as a versatile gaming laptop designed to blend into professional environments while delivering robust gaming capabilities.

Positioned between HP’s budget-friendly Victus laptops and the more potent Omen line, the Transcend 14 brings a slim profile, weighing 3.6 pounds, and features an impressive 2.8K OLED display with a 48-120Hz variable refresh rate. Powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, it targets users seeking both gaming performance and work functionality.

The laptop emphasizes portability with a battery life of up to 11.5 hours in Eco mode. Rapid charging, facilitated by a USB-C 140-watt power adapter, can achieve a 50% charge in 30 minutes. Connectivity options include a USB-C port, HDMI 2.1 output, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port, and two USB-A ports. Notably, the absence of microSD or SD card slots may disappoint creative professionals, a target demographic for this model.

Collaborating with gaming accessories brand HyperX, HP introduces audio tuned by HyperX for the Transcend 14, making it the first gaming laptop to feature such enhancements. The laptop incorporates a lattice-less keyboard design with edge-to-edge keycaps inspired by HyperX’s pudding caps, offering bright glowing borders. The keyboard supports either four-zone RGB lighting or per-key RGB lighting and will be available later this spring.

HP implements a new cooling system co-engineered with Intel to address the thermal challenge of slim gaming laptops. Utilizing a vapor chamber, the chassis creates a pressurized zone for efficient heat dissipation through rear vents, positioning the Transcend 14 as HP’s claim to be the “coolest 14-inch gaming laptop in the world.”

Availability and Price

Priced starting at $1,500, the HP OMEN Transcend 14 laptop is expected to be available for pre-order starting January 8.

CES 2024, the premier technology show in Las Vegas, promises a showcase of cutting-edge innovations across various tech domains, and a full plate of new stuff for us tech lovers, including novelties incorporating tech from our main CES 2024 sponsor, Infineon Technologies. Thank you!

Infineon focuses on designing and manufacturing semiconductor products for a wide array of applications. Their products are crucial in enabling technological advancements in areas like electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, smart homes, and industrial automation. Make sure to check their official website www.infineon.com to stay on top of everything.

Laptops and PCs

This year, the event is anticipated to feature significant advancements in AI, particularly in laptops, with Intel’s “AI Everywhere” slogan setting the tone. The concept of the “AI PC” is expected to take center stage, with laptops incorporating dedicated silicon for local AI processing.

AI, AI, and AI!

The AI influence extends to features like webcam image processing, audio tuning, and voice-to-text interactions, benefiting from the latest silicon advancements from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm. Meteor Lake laptops, powered by Intel’s Core Ultra processors, are anticipated from major manufacturers like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and MSI. AMD’s Ryzen 8040 series, with the XDNA AI engine, aims to enhance performance in AI tasks.

Faster Hardware

CES 2024 is set to introduce Wi-Fi 7 to laptops, offering faster connectivity. LG’s updated Gram lineup and Dell’s new XPS models, featuring Core Ultra hardware and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 mobile GPUs, highlight the power and portability blend.

Attendees may witness the unveiling of AMD’s Ryzen 8000 desktop chips, potentially bringing back value-minded APUs; Intel might introduce more desktop 14th Gen processors, building on the Raptor Lake Refresh lineup; Nvidia’s rumored GeForce RTX 40 “Super” graphics cards could make an appearance, targeting improved performance.

Monitors

Monitors and displays are expected to showcase OLEDs, particularly in gaming monitors (like Acer’s new Predator lineup), with broader applications in content-creator monitors.

CES may witness the integration of IPS Black technology, offering enhanced contrast. Dell’s Ultrasharp monitors with Thunderbolt 4 hubs could set a trend, focusing on connectivity.

PC Storage

In the realm of PC storage, PCIe 5.0 SSDs with novel cooling solutions are anticipated. External SSDs supporting USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 standards may be unveiled, providing faster data transfer options.

Smart Home

Smart home announcements are likely to revolve around the Matter standard, fostering interoperability among devices from different manufacturers. Innovations in smart home appliances (Like Samsung’s Enhanced AI Ecosystem Kitchen), robots, and AI advancements are anticipated.

TV

In the TV sector, incremental upgrades are expected, with higher framerates, improved audio features, and more backlight zones. CES 2024 will likely feature advancements in Wi-Fi 7 routers, mesh systems, and compatibility with emerging devices so, the TVs should follow all this evolution in terms of hardware.

Digital Health

Fitness tech may showcase compact fitness machines, following the trend of smaller hardware footprints. CES is anticipated to explore diverse ways of tracking health metrics beyond traditional fitness trackers. We will probably get to know even more about the Samsung Medication Tracking feature.

Mobile Phones

Mobile tech announcements may include Asus revealing the ROG Phone 8 and advancements in camera technologies. AI-themed features, such as on-device generative AI, are expected to be highlighted by manufacturers like Motorola.

Automobiles

In the electric vehicles domain, CES is likely to feature in-vehicle software advancements and showcase electric technologies beyond traditional cars. The event will showcase Hyundai’s software-defined vehicle (SDV), described as a “smartphone on wheels,” equipped with over-the-air (OTA) systems for software updates.

Hyundai and Kia aim to convert all cars to SDVs by 2025. Mercedes introduces its Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) virtual assistant for personalized driving control. BMW unveils new software-based technologies. Kia presents five purpose-built vehicle (PBV) concepts for specific use cases, targeting a 2025 launch. Honda introduces its 2024 EV lineup, including the Prologue electric SUV with a 300-mile range. Hyundai’s UAM subsidiary, Supernal, debuts a flying taxi model aiming for 2028 commercialization.

The overarching theme of CES 2024 revolves around AI integration across diverse product categories, ranging from laptops and components to smart homes, fitness tech, mobile devices, and beyond. The event will unveil the next wave of technological innovations shaping the future of consumer electronics. We hope you’re as excited as we are!

Mirrorroid Co., Ltd is a company that builds solutions based on smart mirrors for retail locations such as hair salons, beauty shops, etc. When I met the company’s representatives, we discussed Mirart (official site), their most recent solutions for hairdressers, and I had an opportunity to watch a live demo.

The hardware consists of a 15.6” mirror display that is easily installable in any location because it hangs with magnets. It’s also possible to get a 32” version, but a stand is required because of the extra weight.

At first, it starts as a typical virtual hair styling and coloring session in which a form of augmented reality is utilized to quickly and efficiently show different potential styles to the customer. The hair salon professional drives the demo on a mirror directly in front of the customer.

It’s possible to tune the virtual hair appearance to make it match as realistically as possible, including scale, length, and volume. When the customer is happy with the preview, the hair styler can get to work.

What’s around this hair styling workflow is even more interesting: Mirart’s devices are not only used for styling, but they are fully featured points of sales (PoS) and could, in theory, be the only computer the hair salon needs.

In addition to handling payments, there’s an integrated CRM where customer preferences can be saved, along with the styling history. The mirror can even recognize the customer upon sitting, which makes the process even easier, leaving more time for the stylist to focus on the customer relationship.

Thanks to the integrated computing capabilities, these devices have additional business opportunities. First, we discussed their idea of having a Scalp Analyzer. This consists of taking pictures of the scalp with a 60X zoom to perform image analysis to detect oily skin, bad roots, etc. That’s also an excellent opportunity for the salon to propose treatments and cosmetic products.

Other business ideas included catering to hair styling schools by integrating ratings and scores for individual students’ exercises. Finally, there was an idea to include a Photo Booth feature, as the mirror has all the necessary hardware to make it work.

Hair salons can buy the hardware starting at around $4000, depending on the size, and subscribe to the SaaS for about $80 per month. Currently, the system is deployed in Japan and Korea, but it’s easy to imagine this solution getting a more global footprint.

Of all the hair styling products we’ve seen over the years, this is more integrated, covers more business needs, and offers the potential to increase the bottom line further. Mirart is a CES Innovation Awards Honoree.

At CES 2024, The Portable Monitor showcased its legacy of innovation with the introduction of three new products designed to transform laptops into powerful, multi-screen workstations.

Monitors that can turn Laptops into 5-screen powerhouses.

As pioneers of dual-screen products, the company now launched a modular approach to products that fold, slide, swipe, add, and flip up to four additional monitors to laptops. Operating on a single USB cable, these monitors provide a completely portable and versatile workspace with up to five screens.

The Twins (24″) is a foldable 24-inch monitor, that offers a large-screen experience that folds down for easy mobility. Laurent Wéry, CEO, emphasizes the product’s flexibility and innovation, catering to professionals and creatives who require a larger canvas without compromising portability. The Twins (24″), which doesn’t have a disclosed price yet, marks a significant advancement in the product line, making standard monitor sizes mobile for the first time.

The Flex (14″) is a s a $599.00 dual 14-inch portable monitor designed for dynamic professionals seeking flexibility and efficiency in their workflow. Laurent Wéry notes that the Flex (14″) provides a dual-screen setup in a sleek, portable form, enhancing productivity and versatility on the go.

The Mono (15.6″) represents the latest innovation in single portable monitors, targeting light-traveling customers. Designed in a compact, tablet-like format, this $349.00 screen offers efficiency and quality for professionals who prioritize simplicity and portability.

CEO Laurent Wéry expresses excitement about transforming large, static desktop monitors into foldable, easily transportable solutions. Co-founder Charlee Jeunehomme highlights the revolutionary impact of The Slide ($579.00), one of the company’s iconic products, on customers’ work lives.

Thomas Castro, co-founder, introduces The Mono (15.6″) as a compact and efficient solution for professionals requiring a portable yet powerful display. The Mono’s exceptional display quality and compact size make it an attractive choice for those seeking simplicity and efficiency in their work setups.

During CES 2024, Acer introduced new additions to its Swift line of laptops, showcasing the latest Intel Core Ultra processors with integrated neural processing units (NPUs) and AI acceleration capabilities; The expansion includes the Swift Go series and the Acer Swift X 14, both featuring advanced technologies for improved performance in content creation, schoolwork, productivity, and gaming.

The Acer Swift Go laptops, verified as Intel Evo platform devices, come in 14-inch and 16-inch models — Powered by Intel Core Ultra processors and Intel Arc GPUs, these laptops bring premium performance and up to 12.5 hours of battery life for the 14-inch version and up to 10.5 hours for the 16-inch version.

Acer Swift Go 16.

Acert Swift X 14 and Swift Go 14.

The devices incorporate AI-supported features like Copilot in Windows, enhancing user experiences for work and play. Additionally, the Swift Go laptops feature high-quality OLED displays with up to 2.4x faster internet connection speeds through Intel Wi-Fi 7.

Both Swift Go models support up to 32GB LPDDR5X memory and offer an upgradable 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD with dual slots. The laptops provide an array of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and Bluetooth LE Audio. The Swift Go devices maintain the line’s signature thin-and-light aluminum chassis with a 180-degree opening for easy collaboration.

Acer Swift X 14.

The Acer Swift X 14, designed for creators and students, integrates the latest Intel Core Ultra processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPUs. The laptop features a Calman-verified 2.8K OLED display with impressive color accuracy, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 technology for enhanced graphics.

AI-enabled features, including Temporal Noise Reduction in the webcam, contribute to seamless conferencing. The Swift X 14 also includes advanced thermal technologies to maintain optimal performance.

Price And Availability

The Acer Swift Go 16 and 14 will be available in North America in March, with prices starting at USD 799.99 and USD 749.99, respectively. The Swift X 14 will be available in North America in February, starting at USD 1,399.99. Prices and availability may vary by region, and interested consumers are advised to contact their nearest Acer office for specific information.