The Rise of AI At CES: Gadgets that Make You Think, “Really?”

Every year, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) rolls into Las Vegas, showcasing the latest innovations that promise to make our lives easier, smarter, or at least a bit more interesting. This year, however, instead of jaw-dropping technological marvels, many attendees are left asking, “Is that really AI?” From smart hair clippers to AI-enhanced microwaves, it seems like the word “AI” has been liberally sprinkled on just about anything that plugs in.

AI Buzzword Overload

Step onto the CES show floor this year, and it feels like you can’t shake a stick without hitting an AI gadget. Walk past booths dotted with everything from AI companions to smart appliances, and it’s hard not to notice that many products claim to be “intelligent.” Yet, the question remains: How much of this is truly innovative, and how much is just buzzword bingo?

For instance, one of the most talked-about products this year is the Glyde smart hair clippers. These clippers claim to provide amateur hairdressers with the perfect fade by dynamically adjusting the closeness of the cut. A face mask looks borrowed from an optician’s office only adds to the peculiar aesthetic of a product that would be strange even without its AI component. So, does having a voice assistant offer hair-cutting advice genuinely make you trust the clippers more? Or is it simply a high-tech gimmick?

AI Meets Healthcare: The Pills of Tomorrow?

Venture over to the SleepQ booth, where catchy slogans boast, “Where Pills Meet AI.” Here, employees cheerfully distribute boxes of multivitamins featuring the trendy herb ashwagandha. According to SleepQ, their system leverages biometric data from your smartwatch to recommend the perfect time for taking these pills. Sure, timing is important when it comes to medication, but let’s be honest—do we really need such a high-tech solution for a simple requirement?

Enhancing pharmacotherapy with so-called “AI” seems less revolutionary and more like a marketing ploy. Realistically, who needs their pill-taking time optimized? We certainly don’t require AI to suggest a good time for a multivitamin!

An Overly Intelligent Vacuum?

Imagine a vacuum cleaner that comes with promises of “Neural Predictive AI.” That’s what startup Deglace presents with their Fraction vacuum cleaner, marketed as smarter than your average floor cleaner. It offers predictive maintenance and can even tell you when parts need replacing before they fail. While modular upgrades sound appealing, one can’t help but wonder if this groundbreaking vacuum is merely another way to sell you expensive replacements.

Art Generated by AI: A Dubious Concept

At CES, the arrival of AI-generated art has ushered in a new wave of storytelling through technology. Enter Fraimic, an E Ink digital frame that relies on AI to create images based on your voice prompts. It prompts an interesting thought: Is AI-generated art an exciting frontier, or simply a fancy way of saying, “We didn’t feel like hiring an artist”?

Fraimic’s functionality isn’t lost on those who appreciate the aesthetically pleasing presentation. Imagine telling it you want a serene beach scene, only for it to generate something completely off-mark. While the frame itself is elegant and low-energy, having AI generate “art” muddies the waters regarding what it means to be artistic.

The Mixed Bag of AI Gadgets: What Really Matters?

Amidst the comedic and unnecessary integrations of AI into everyday gadgets, there’s a growing concern about health and safety. For example, Infinix introduced a modular phone concept with various AI features, but when asked how AI truly enhanced their offerings, it felt like a vague attempt to fit in with the tech trend. Meanwhile, companies could benefit from focusing on clear, practical applications that enhance user experience rather than just slapping on an AI label.

Take the Wan AIChef for instance—a fancy-looking microwave that claims to be “AI-enabled.” In reality, it’s just a microwave with a digital touch. Who wouldn’t want a microwave that tells you the best time to heat up a frozen dinner? The takeaway here is simple: not every “AI” label equates to a better user experience.

Whimsical Is Not Always Wonderful

Let’s not forget the whimsical gadgets, like the AI Bartender. This overhyped cocktail maker checks your age via webcam (cue the discomfort) and claims to recommend tailored drinks. When I tried asking for something wild, their version of a “Funky Tequila Fizz” seemed more appropriate for a college party than an upscale bar. It might lead some to wonder: is there a fine line between playful and cringe-worthy?

Is AI Innovation Warranted?

As CES continues to showcase endless streams of AI gadgets, we need to pause and reflect. What does it really mean for everyday consumers? Are we opening ourselves to technology that makes life better, or simply falling prey to shiny new distractions?

One thing is clear: we should be cautious about the products we embrace, especially when the excitement of AI lures us in. Products like hair clippers, microwaves, and vacuums that coat themselves in tech-lingo deserve a healthy scrutiny.

While innovation is essential, it doesn’t always have to come in the form of AI. Sometimes, the simplest solutions can be the most effective. After all, practicality reigns supreme, even at a tech extravaganza like CES. So the next time you’re enticed by the promise of another “intelligent” gadget, ask yourself: Is this enhancement or just a clever marketing ploy?