The internationally renowned technology trade show has arrived in Las Vegas, Nevada, for yet another year. Set against the extravagant backdrop of neon lights and nightlife, CES showcases new products and future technologies in electronics.
In previous years, pivotal products including the CD Player, Xbox, Blu-Ray Disc and Plasma TV have made their tech debut at CES. The show has not been without its mishaps over the years however. In 2005, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates was left red faced when his computer crashed as he proudly showcased the Windows Media Centre! 2013 was also a memorable year, which saw driverless cars more or less take over the show. Nine car manufacturers filled a combined 140,000 sq ft of exhibition space.
So far, during the January 2015 show we have seen a plethora of high-tech car developments including a brief sneak peak at the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, which looks a great deal more polished and refined than previous models. Chevrolet has also promised that it will have a quieter drive and a better quality battery but are keeping all other details under wraps until the Detroit Auto Show (AKA North American International Auto Show) so watch this space.
BMW's innovative iDrive
If that wasn’t enough, BMW also unveiled their new LCD touch screens with iDrive interface that includes gesture control, using a camera to recognise gestures from the driver. This means if an incoming call comes in you only have to wave your hand to the right to ignore it. Stereo volume can also be adjusted by moving your finger clockwise or anti-clockwise in front of the screen. Pretty impressive, huh?
Harman's in-car sound zones
Audio maker Harman has also revealed an in-car system completely different from anything else on the market. In-car music arguments could soon be a thing of the past with technology that allows for each passenger to have a different sound zone without the need for headphones. This means each passenger can listen to his or her own cringe-worthy music collection without disrupting anyone else! Let the guilty pleasures commence.
Mercedes' luxury self drive
Mercedes has also presented their F 015 Luxury in Motion self-driving concept. With a sleek body and huge grille, the F 015 is essentially a living space on wheels. The cabin looks just like a lounge complete with four rotating seats and entertainment screens – making it easy to forget that you are travelling.
There’s still two days left of the Las Vegas CES so it will be interesting to see which international product developments emerge.