Every January, companies flock to Las Vegas to show their wares at the nation’s largest tech show. From January 6-9, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) showcased innovative and breakthrough consumer technology products. While the show highlights the entire spectrum of consumer tech gear and gadgets, a few offered implications for the real estate industry.

Following the trend of Smart Homes and The Internet of Things (or having any and all everyday devices connected to the Internet), CES featured connected devices such as TVs, refrigerators, and even pet feeders! Panasonic and Samsung each announced new hubs to connect these myriad devices. Panasonic’s platform, dubbed Ora, promises integration of any smart device in the home, as well as the ability to work directly with Honeywell to tie in its home security and energy devices. Samsung will be placing its SmartThings platform directly into its new generation of televisions, turning the TV set into a central hub for all smart devices in the home.
                                             
Another Smart Home item garnering attention was Amazon’s voice-controlled Echo. In addition to offering standard voice functions, the Echo can also connect to Vivint smart home systems and do everything from locking doors, to changing the temperature and adjusting the lights.

Replacing all standard household items with Smart versions can be a daunting task. However, companies are finding ways to connect devices through replaceable items, such as batteries or light bulbs. Using a Roost Wi-Fi 9V battery in a smoke alarm will provide alerts on an owner’s phone anytime the smoke alarm is activated. The Sengled Pulse lightbulb combines dimmable LED lighting with Bluetooth speakers, allowing homeowners to control both lighting and music from a phone or tablet wirelessly.
                                                       
Finally, while not directly impacting real estate (at least not yet!), two interesting featured items were a wireless charging station and ultra-thin television set. Built by a company called Ossia, the wireless charger charges any device just by being placed within 10 feet of the device. Ossia also developed AA batteries that can stay perpetually charged as long as they are within range of the charging station...no more replacing batteries or swapping out rechargeables! LG’s new 4K OLED TVs are inching consumers towards invisible displays, offering 55- and 65-inch sets that are less than 3 millimeters thick.

Whether at home or on the go, this year’s CES had something to spark every interest. Time to get connected to the next generation of consumer electronics!