The future of technology in focus at CES 2024

A journey through innovation and weather chaos, that's how APPLiA CEO Matts Spångberg describes his impressions of CES 2024 in Las Vegas. But is this the beginning of the end of trade fairs as we know them?

Every year, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. 2024 was no exception, despite the challenges many European travelers faced on their way to Las Vegas, followed by the Boeing Max grounding and record-breaking cold weather in the eastern United States. But Las Vegas welcomed visitors with its usual weather: cool nights and up to 15 degrees during the day.

From electronics to MedTech: an industry in transition

In addition to the fair confirming its position as one of the largest and most influential technology fairs in the world, the name change to the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) is starting to be increasingly visible in the product segment. This year's edition gave visitors a feeling of being in a future that previously only depicted in films like ”Back to the Future” and ”BladeRunner.” For those who have the opportunity, a visit to CES is an experience not to be missed. Technological progress is no longer a utopia – it is our reality.

A clear theme for 2024 was MedTech. APPLiA has had member companies with products in Personal Care for several years, but what was shown during the fair was primarily products that previously more or less only used in the healthcare sector which is now possible for consumers to use themselves daily

”Innovation for a better life” was another overarching theme, focusing on the connected home. Terms like ConnectLife and Connected to the Future were common, where everything from everyday tasks to fitness and security can be managed via apps. Keywords were ”efficiency”, ”smart”, ”AI agent” and ”better life for all”, reflecting an industry determined to integrate technology into every aspect of our lives.

Another interesting development was the use of AI and IR glasses. Many stands were without physical products, which opens up a discussion about the future of trade fairs. Can we expect trade fairs of the future to be completely digital? And if so, how important will the personal meeting be at these events?

Text: Matts Spångberg

Image: Consumer Technology Association

APPLiAnytt