Technology is constantly evolving and in the next few years it will hit heights that were once the work of science fiction.
At this year’s highly anticipated Consumer Electronics Show, the excitement was palpable. Buyers and enthusiasts hovered around slick displays of next-generation tech, buzzing about the implications of everything from AI to VR on the market – and on our daily lives.
But while this progress is thrilling, exposure to never-ending technological development can make it challenging to find devices best suited to our individual needs. Being able to navigate updates is the key to making sustainable, worthwhile choices. To ensure you’re equipped with the latest, the Connection breaks down the main focuses from this year’s show.
Seamless connectivity
For those who have experienced the frustration of connecting smart home devices from different brands, look out for the new industry standard, Matter. “Essentially, Matter gives devices a common language to talk to. It works with your Siri, Alexa, Google Home – any of the ecosystems you’re using currently,” explains Christi Russell, Costco Australia’s major electronics buyer.
Not only will this increase user-friendliness, it will also give consumers more freedom to purchase across brands. Matter-enabled items are already available. “We’ve already started updating our products to meet new interoperability standards in Australia,” explains Jeremy Senior, Vice-President of Consumer Electronics at Samsung Australia. “In 2023, even more of our products will be updated or launched with interoperability capabilities.”
Futuristic TVs
Gone are the days of conspicuous TVs – the brief is now to blend into the background. “Previously, the view was ‘Here’s your TV, let’s try to make a room for it’ but now it’s ‘How can we make the TV work for us?’” says Russell.
Although still in prototype stages, there are exciting developments with invisible TVs. Made from a pane of glass that is completely transparent when off, invisible TVs open a world of interior design possibilities. “You can put your invisible TV in front of a window and it won’t distract from the view, or you can put it in between two rooms and still see through to the other room,” Russell explains.
There are other imminent options too: TVs set on easels that display art when not in use, and others that rise out of footboards and disappear back down when turned off. Even wireless TVs, with thinner screens and no cables – although this is still in development.
If you want to get a taste of this now, Senior suggests Samsung’s ‘ambient mode’ feature. “This is because ambient mode can display décor, weather information, artwork, trending pictures, stories based on your interests, or take on the appearance of the wall behind it to appear virtually ‘invisible’.
“Previously, the view was ‘Here’s your TV, let’s try to make a room for it’ but now it’s ‘How can we make the TV work for us?”
Virtual reality
There are also big moves in virtual reality. “Now we’re seeing it integrated with your home computer, your TV, and there’s more content for everything outside of gaming,” says Russell. “As it gets more and more widespread, the technology within it gets better and better. And that’s where full body avatars – and going in and really immersing yourself within the electronic experience – begins.”
In the coming year, consumers will find more comfortable, user-friendly gaming headsets. Beyond this, look out for augmented reality eyewear for everyday use: regular-looking glasses that have the capability to display online features directly on the lenses.
Sustainable development
Sustainability is at the forefront. Most companies are aiming for net-zero carbon emissions and zero waste. Brands are re-evaluating their manufacturing processes and creating lightweight products that require less packaging, as well as using recycled and recyclable materials to reduce landfill.
Another focus is energy consumption. “As retailers, we will be looking at what products are better for energy use and what products are more sustainable. We know members are looking for that, and so are we,” says Russell.
Futureproof your next purchase
1. Plan before you buy. Research features to understand what you value the most.
2. Buy the best energy rating available. You will save on bills in the long run.
3. Look for upgradable products. Some new items update via the operating system, saving you from having to purchase new units rewards.
4. Consider what works for you. Features are one thing, but what about lifestyle? Look for an item that will suit you and your space.
