5 Future Technologies to Watch Out For at CES 2018

The Consumer Electronics Show is back with a host of new gadgets and tech for the public to enjoy. CES is among the largest tech conventions in the world. Hosted by the Consumer Trade Association, it features the latest innovations in consumer tech. And sometimes, it grants a glimpse into the near future, blurring the line between science and science fiction. In line with that, here are 5 future technologies to watch out for at CES 2018.

Driverless Car Technology

Auto manufacturers continue to race each other — no pun intended — for safe and efficient self-driving vehicles. And while the technology for may be imperfect, expect discussion on driverless cars at this year’s CES. Speakers from Mercedes-Benz and General Motors, will give an idea on where we are now in terms of technology. Of course, technology is only one step on the path to the future. To this end, expect talks on legalities, liabilities, and the business standpoint of self-driving cars.

Cognitive Technology and Artificial Intelligence

This is an enticing prospect, albeit a controversial one. Defenders of cognitive technology argue that robots capable of understanding the world around them are the future. Critics argue that such machines will most likely lead to mankind’s extinction. CES 2018 will see discussions from both fronts. How advanced is AI technology in 2018? What challenges will this tech face? What can be expected in the future? Hopefully, we get answers.

AR Technology

Augmented Reality doesn’t just include android games like Pokemon Go. Think of AR as add-ons that alter perception of real life. This is different from Virtual Reality (VR) tech, which simulates an environment. The most extreme example of AR would be Tony Stark’s HUD in the Iron Man suit. It provides telemetry, Internet access, communications, and a host of other functions. Of course, that’s still a few decades off, at least. Nonetheless, apps and gadgets that offer at least one of each of these functions exist today. At CES 2018, talks on AR will go beyond simple apps and smartphones. Yes, the public is expected to have access to groundbreaking AR tech this year. But we’re talking education, arcades, and theme parks. All these could be just beyond the next technological corner.

 5G Networks

Experts predict 5G networks to be the norm before 2020. What does this mean? Mostly it means lower latency and greater accessibility. It also improves connectivity, especially when considering IoT (Self-driving cars, smart appliances, etc). We should get word at CES on how far along that road we are. After all, we know AT&T is ready for testing of its own 5G network. We can expect other companies to follow suit soon enough.

Smart Cities

Technology is often viewed as the antithesis of nature. There is basis behind this train of thought, of course. Uninhibited scientific development has led to destruction of so much of the natural world. Technology however, is merely a tool. And tools are not to blame for the actions of the wielder. Case in point, the movement toward environmentalism. CES 2018 will feature discussions on greener, cleaner, and environmentally responsible tech, all in pursuit of building the cities of tomorrow.

CES 2018 will open in Las Vegas, Nevada from January 9-12.