“Unleashing Innovation: The Rise of AI Gadgets at CES 2025”

Home gadgets that perform tasks, vehicles that know your preferred café, and robotic pets designed to be endearing were among the artificial intelligence-driven products showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show that commenced on Tuesday.

All these items will vie for attention at the yearly CES spectacle in Las Vegas, while vendors behind the scenes seek strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs anticipated by US President-elect Donald Trump.

AI once again takes center stage at the expo, alongside autonomous vehicles that include everything from tractors and boats to lawnmowers and golf club trolleys.

South Korean electronics titan LG initiated a media day on Monday by presenting a vision for “Affectionate Intelligence,” where household devices monitor individuals – tracking sleep quality and ensuring they don’t forget umbrellas when rain is forecasted.

“At LG, we are unobtrusively integrating AI into our physical living environments,” stated CEO William Cho.

“We view space not just as a physical setting but as a place where seamless experiences materialize – across Home, Mobility, Commercial, and even Virtual platforms.”

Before the show floor even launched, exhibitors attracted attendees with electric roller skates, holographic booths for life-sized remote collaboration, and even a robot resembling a lamp placed atop a walking table. Most products claimed enhancements powered by AI.

“Everyone will be discussing AI … regardless of its actual presence,” Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi relayed to AFP.

AI in Motion

CES will also emerge as a colossal automotive showcase, with vehicle manufacturers and suppliers of software and components highlighting self-driving and automated safety features.

“CES has served as an auto exhibition for quite some time, and it is even more pronounced this year,” remarked Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s close ties with Trump are anticipated to ease regulatory hurdles associated with autonomous vehicles.

Though still a way off from being part of daily routine, flying cars will be included in the CES lineup, as indicated by independent tech analyst Rob Enderle.

“You should start seeing flying vehicles available for purchase,” Enderle announced. “Securing approval for their flight is an entirely different challenge.”

Robots made for performing work tasks or providing comfort – and even charming pets – are among the CES displays.

Devices aimed at soothing the mind, enhancing appearance, or aiding restful sleep are showcased as technology continues to infiltrate every facet of life.

“Digital health is set to be significant,” stated Greengart. “We are witnessing an increasing amount of technology being worn or utilized for monitoring health indicators.”

AI-enhanced technology will also infiltrate homes, ranging from a spice dispenser that “adapts” to a cook’s preferences to robotic swimming pool cleaners.

Concerns about Tariffs?

Tariffs proposed by Trump would escalate costs for imported goods, which will likely weigh on the minds of CES attendees focusing on the US market, according to analysts.

A substantial number of items at the show feature imported components, and should Trump impose tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico, it could result in a surge in prices, as per analyst Enderle.

“There will be a significant number of anxious vendors at CES,” mentioned Enderle regarding tariff apprehensions.

Discussions at CES will revolve around how to maneuver supply chain constraints that tariffs might induce, according to Greengart.

“However, much of the dialogue will occur behind closed doors to avoid upsetting the incoming administration,” he added.

Chinese firms with a robust US presence, like smart television competitors TCL and Hisense, are participating in CES.

Nonetheless, Greengart cautions about a “growing divide in the market between China and the rest of the globe” as trade tensions unfold. AFP