The tech of tomorrow
The world’s biggest tech showcase was held in Las Vegas last week with a glimpse of some of the gear and gadgets that could improve our lives in the future. Artificial intelligence was a major theme of the event, with many manufacturers unveiling products using it in new ways.
A new system to help self-driving cars think more like humans and equip them with “reasoning” was unveiled by chip-maker Nvidia. The firm’s boss, Jensen Huan, said the Alpamayo platform would mean vehicles could “think through rare scenarios, drive safely in complex environments and explain their driving decisions”.
Motor company Hyundai also revealed it will be using a human-like robot called Atlas in its factories from 2028. It’s designed to work alongside humans and help ease their physical strain, while also having the potential to take on more dangerous tasks.
The CES Innovation Awards recognised some of the best new products across a range of categories including health, construction, education and robotics. Winners included the Bambini exoskeletons, developed to help children and teenagers with mobility issues and neurological disorders.
Two devices to help people with visual impairments were honoured – a robotic guide that uses AI to help users move safely and a smart cane that can precisely monitor the environment around them.
And a ‘brain booth’ that supports home workers’ focus and cognition was named in the Smart Home Category. The AI-powered pod monitors factors including brainwaves and posture to create a personalised routine for the user and improve their habits.
