Articles tagged with "consumer-electronics"
Mark Zuckerberg says a future without smart glasses is ‘hard to imagine’
Mark Zuckerberg expressed strong confidence in the future of AI-powered smart glasses during Meta’s recent earnings call, suggesting that in a few years, it will be difficult to imagine most glasses not having AI capabilities. He compared this shift to the transition from flip phones to smartphones, highlighting that billions of people already wear glasses or contacts, making smart glasses a natural next step. Zuckerberg noted that sales of Meta’s smart glasses have tripled in the past year, calling them some of the fastest-growing consumer electronics in history. Meta is actively investing in multiple smart glasses models, including Oakley-branded glasses designed for exercise. Despite Zuckerberg’s optimistic outlook, some skepticism remains given past overestimations about the metaverse’s adoption. However, the broader tech industry appears to be aligning with Meta’s vision. Google is reportedly collaborating with Warby Parker on smart glasses, Apple is developing AI glasses and related devices, and Snap is spinning off its AR glasses business. Even OpenAI is exploring AI wearables, though more focused
IoTAI-wearablessmart-glassesaugmented-realityconsumer-electronicsMetawearable-technologyNot to be outdone by OpenAI, Apple is reportedly developing an AI wearable
Apple is reportedly developing an AI-powered wearable device in the form of a pin that users can attach to their clothing. According to a report by The Information, the device will feature two cameras (one standard lens and one wide-angle), three microphones, a physical button, a speaker, and a charging strip similar to Fitbit’s design. The pin is described as a thin, flat, circular disc with an aluminum-and-glass shell, roughly the size of an AirTag but slightly thicker. Apple engineers are reportedly aiming to accelerate the development of this product to compete with OpenAI, which is expected to announce its own AI hardware device—possibly earbuds—later in 2026. The pin could potentially launch in 2027 with an initial production run of around 20 million units. This move signals a growing interest and competition in the AI hardware market, as companies seek to integrate AI capabilities into wearable technology. However, consumer demand for such devices remains uncertain. The report references Humane, a startup founded by
IoTAI-wearablesmart-devicesAppleAI-hardwarewearable-technologyconsumer-electronicsOpenAI aims to ship its first device in 2026, and it could be earbuds
OpenAI is planning to launch its first hardware device in the second half of 2026, with strong indications that the product could be AI-powered earbuds. The company aims to ship between 40 to 50 million units in the first year, signaling an ambitious entry into the wearable tech market. OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Chris Lehane, described the device as more “peaceful and calm” compared to smartphones like the iPhone, suggesting a focus on seamless, user-friendly AI integration. Manufacturing partnerships are reportedly being explored with China-based Luxshare and Taiwan’s Foxconn. The move to develop its own hardware device would allow OpenAI to have greater control over the distribution and development of its AI assistant, ChatGPT, which currently relies on other platforms. However, the company faces challenges in replacing established earbuds like Apple’s AirPods, especially without strong operating system integration. The wearables market has seen mixed success with AI devices so far, with few standout hits. Meanwhile, other tech
IoTwearable-technologyOpenAI-deviceAI-earbudshardware-innovationconsumer-electronicssmart-devicesAsus bids goodbye to smartphones indefinitely, ending ROG and Zenfone lineups
Asus has officially announced it will cease launching new smartphones starting in 2026, effectively ending its Zenfone and ROG Phone lines and stepping away from the smartphone market indefinitely. Chairman Jonney Shih revealed this strategic decision during Asus’ 2026 kickoff event in Taiwan, emphasizing a shift in focus toward emerging AI-driven products such as robots and smart glasses. While the company has not ruled out a future return, Shih framed the move as an open-ended pause rather than a temporary hiatus, citing unprofitable conditions and a challenging market environment marked by slowing demand, rising prices, and intense competition. The Zenfone and ROG Phone series, which targeted budget-conscious users and mobile gamers respectively, struggled to maintain relevance amid these pressures. Asus faced difficulties competing with larger rivals on software support, marketing, and pricing. Both lines offered limited operating system updates and security patches compared to industry leaders, reducing their appeal in a crowded market. The broader smartphone industry’s shift toward incremental improvements and longer device
robotartificial-intelligencesmart-glassesconsumer-electronicsAI-driven-productstechnology-shiftAsusWhy Amazon bought Bee, an AI wearable
Amazon acquired Bee, a startup that developed an AI-powered wearable device designed primarily for recording and summarizing conversations such as interviews, meetings, and classes. Bee’s AI acts as a personal companion by learning from users’ recordings and integrating data from services like Gmail, Google Calendar, contacts, and Apple Health. Unlike Amazon’s Alexa, which focuses on in-home assistance, Bee provides contextual understanding of users’ lives outside the home. The two AIs are seen as complementary, with Amazon planning eventual integration to enhance user experience by combining continuous AI support throughout the day. Bee’s technology builds a personalized knowledge graph based on user interactions, enabling it to suggest to-do items and follow-ups. Early adopters include students, elderly users, and professionals who benefit from automated summarization rather than manual note-taking. The device transcribes conversations and discards audio recordings, which limits some work-related applications requiring playback for accuracy. Bee’s small team, now part of Amazon, is actively developing new features such as voice notes
IoTAI-wearablesmart-devicesAmazon-Alexavoice-assistantpersonal-AIconsumer-electronicsPebble founder says his new company is ‘not a startup’
Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky is relaunching his smartwatch company with a fundamentally different approach, emphasizing sustainability and profitability over rapid growth typical of startups. Unlike the original Pebble, which scaled quickly to around 180 employees and faced significant challenges such as overproduction and financial strain leading to layoffs and an eventual exit, the new company, Core Devices, operates with a small team of five and sells directly to consumers without outside funding. Migicovsky stresses that this reboot is not about creating a revolutionary new product but rather reviving an "old idea" with a focused, limited vision tailored to niche users like himself—tech enthusiasts who value a fun, casual smartwatch companion rather than a full smartphone replacement or fitness tracker. Key lessons from the original Pebble experience have shaped this new direction. Migicovsky acknowledges that overestimating demand and producing excess inventory caused financial difficulties, and that the company lost sight of its original vision by trying to expand into areas like health tracking. The new Pebble watches
IoTsmartwatcheswearable-technologyhardware-developmentconsumer-electronicsstartup-strategiesproduct-manufacturingCES 2026: New pocket lab detects dairy, gluten allergens in 2 minutes
At CES 2026, French startup Allergen Alert introduced a portable “mini lab” device designed to detect common food allergens such as gluten, dairy, and peanuts within two minutes. Roughly the size of a paperback book, the battery-operated gadget uses single-use testing pouches to analyze food samples with lab-grade precision, displaying results on the device or a connected smartphone app. The technology was inspired by the personal experience of CEO Bénédicte Astier, whose daughter suffered a life-threatening dairy allergy reaction, motivating her to create a reliable, on-the-spot food testing solution. Scheduled for release in late 2026 at around $200, the device targets individuals with allergies, families, hospitality providers, schools, hospitals, and travel operators, aiming to reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions that frequently occur outside the home. Users will subscribe monthly for testing pouches, currently able to detect one allergen at a time, with plans to develop multiplex pouches for simultaneous multi-allergen
IoTportable-devicefood-allergen-detectionhealth-technologyallergy-testingsmart-deviceconsumer-electronicsCES 2026 opens in Las Vegas as AI, robotics and EVs set the agenda
CES 2026 has officially opened in Las Vegas as the premier global consumer technology event, spotlighting innovations in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, electric vehicles (EVs), and advanced computing. Major tech companies such as Samsung, LG, and AMD are unveiling a mix of futuristic concepts and market-ready products, including foldable devices, next-generation displays, robotics, and new processors. Laptops remain a central focus, with manufacturers (except Apple) introducing refreshed and experimental models featuring processors like Intel’s Panther Lake, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2, and AMD’s Strix Halo integrated graphics. Innovations in form factors such as rollable screens, foldables, and dual-screen designs are also prominent, though many remain in the conceptual stage. Smart home technology is rapidly advancing, driven by robotics and AI. CES 2026 showcases a range of robotic home assistants—from vacuums to humanoid-style robots—enhanced by improved computer vision and smarter security cameras with context-aware monitoring. The Matter standard is
roboticsIoTsmart-home-technologyAIelectric-vehiclesautomationconsumer-electronicsWorld-1st laptop cooled by dielectric barrier discharge to debut at CES 2026
YPlasma, a New Jersey-based company, is set to debut the world’s first laptop cooled using Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma actuators at CES 2026. This innovative cooling solution replaces traditional mechanical fans and ionic wind devices by generating high-velocity “ionic wind” through cold plasma without any moving parts. The miniaturized DBD technology, presented as ultra-thin films as slim as 200 microns, can be integrated directly onto heat sinks or internal components, enabling ultra-thin laptop designs that were previously unfeasible to cool. Additionally, these actuators uniquely provide both cooling and heating functions within the same device, offering enhanced thermal versatility. YPlasma emphasizes that their DBD plasma cooling system operates nearly noiselessly at 17 dBA, eliminating typical fan noise in high-performance laptops. Unlike corona discharge methods, YPlasma’s dielectric barrier limits harmful ozone production and prevents “tip erosion,” significantly improving safety, reliability, and device longevity.
materialscooling-technologydielectric-barrier-dischargeplasma-actuatorsconsumer-electronicsthermal-managementlaptop-innovationSamsung hikes DDR5 prices 100%, reshaping device pricing in 2026
Samsung has reportedly doubled the contract price of DDR5 memory, raising it to nearly $20 per unit—an increase of over 100%. This sharp price hike is attributed to a severe supply crunch and signals that elevated DRAM prices may persist well into 2026. The surge is not limited to DDR5; DDR4 prices have also climbed significantly, removing DDR4 as a cost-saving alternative for manufacturers. Taiwanese media and industry analysts indicate that spot market prices are rising even faster than contract prices, driven by memory makers focusing on higher-margin products and strong data center demand. TrendForce forecasts further sharp price increases in early 2026, putting substantial cost pressure on global device manufacturers. The rising memory costs are expected to impact consumer electronics pricing and specifications. Smartphone makers may reintroduce lower memory tiers, with base models potentially returning to 4GB RAM to control costs, and some brands might bring back expandable storage options like microSD slots. Even premium brands like Apple could face increased memory costs as
materialsDDR5memory-pricesSamsungsemiconductor-industryDRAMconsumer-electronicsFairphone refreshes its good-looking, repairable headphones
Fairphone has refreshed its Fairbuds XL headphones, available in a distinctive forest green alongside black, emphasizing repairability and longevity over cutting-edge sound features. These headphones allow users to easily replace key components such as the battery, cushions, speaker covers, headband, and drivers using simple tools like a guitar pick or screwdriver, supported by detailed repair tutorials on Fairphone’s YouTube channel. The updated model retains the 40mm driver size but features upgraded magnets for improved bass while maintaining a largely neutral sound profile that preserves vocal clarity and mids. Design improvements include a color change for the speaker cable and joystick from orange to green, and new mesh ear cushions that enhance comfort and voice isolation for extended wear. Controls are managed via a tactile button and joystick, allowing media playback, volume adjustment, noise cancellation mode switching, and pairing. While the active noise cancellation is robust, it does not match the level of premium models like Apple’s AirPods but performs well in typical noisy environments. Fairphone’s CTO highlighted
materialsrepairable-electronicsheadphonesaudio-technologysustainable-designconsumer-electronicswearable-technologyGoogle’s first AI glasses expected next year
Google is set to launch its first AI-powered smart glasses in 2026, building on its partnerships with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to develop consumer wearables running on Android XR, the same OS powering Samsung’s XR devices. These glasses aim to offer a less bulky and more stylish alternative to traditional headsets, integrating AI and extended reality (XR) seamlessly into daily life. Google is developing multiple models: one focuses on screen-free interaction using built-in speakers, microphones, and cameras to enable communication with its AI Gemini and capture photos, while another features an in-lens display visible only to the wearer, capable of showing turn-by-turn navigation and closed captioning. Additionally, Google previewed Project Aura, a wired XR glasses model from Xreal that balances between bulky headsets and minimalistic glasses. Project Aura offers extended workplace and entertainment functionalities, allowing users to access Google’s suite of products or stream video similarly to more advanced headsets. While Meta currently leads the smart glasses market, particularly through
IoTsmart-glasseswearable-technologyAIaugmented-realityGoogleconsumer-electronicsThis startup built a Fitbit for your brain to combat chronic stress
Antonio Forenza, formerly head of R&D at Rakuten Symphony, identified a gap in the consumer health market for a wearable device that tracks stress, similar to how devices like the Apple Watch track physical activity. Leveraging his engineering expertise, he developed Awear, a wearable that uses electroencephalogram (EEG) technology to monitor brain activity—specifically high-frequency beta waves associated with psychological stress. Persistent beta waves can lead to chronic stress, exhaustion, and mental health issues, and Awear aims to help users detect and manage stress proactively before it escalates. Awear, which recently won the health category pitch competition at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 and is a Startup Battlefield 200 finalist, is currently being tested by Stanford’s psychiatry department for detecting confusion and disorientation in elderly post-surgery patients. However, Forenza’s primary target market is individual consumers, positioning Awear alongside other popular health wearables like the Oura ring. The device is available through an early
IoTwearable-technologybrain-computer-interfaceEEGstress-managementhealth-techconsumer-electronicsAltman describes OpenAI’s forthcoming AI device as more peaceful and calm than the iPhone
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and former Apple chief designer Jony Ive have revealed insights into their upcoming AI hardware device, currently in prototype form, emphasizing its simplicity and calm user experience. Altman anticipates that initial reactions to the device will be underwhelming due to its minimalistic design, contrasting sharply with the complexity and distractions of modern technology. He compared the device’s vibe to “sitting in the most beautiful cabin by a lake,” highlighting its focus on peace, calm, and contextual awareness rather than the flashy, notification-heavy experience typical of current smartphones like the iPhone. Altman criticized existing devices for their overwhelming distractions, likening their use to navigating a noisy, chaotic environment filled with flashing lights and interruptions. In contrast, the new AI device aims to filter information intelligently, presenting it at appropriate times and earning the user’s trust over long-term use. Ive expressed a design philosophy centered on creating products that feel both sophisticated and intuitively simple, encouraging effortless interaction without intimidation. The device
IoTAI-deviceconsumer-electronicssmart-technologyhuman-computer-interactionwearable-technologyambient-computingApple shelves Vision Pro overhaul to focus on AI glasses
Apple has decided to pause its plans to overhaul the Vision Pro VR glasses in order to concentrate on developing AI-powered smart glasses that can rival Meta’s offerings. Previously, Apple was working on a cheaper and lighter version of the Vision Pro, but staff from that project are now being reassigned to focus on smart glasses development. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on at least two smart glasses models: the first, called N50, will connect to an iPhone and lack its own display, with a potential unveiling as early as next year and a release planned for 2027. The second model will include a built-in display and is designed to compete directly with Meta’s recently unveiled smart glasses. Although this display-equipped version was originally slated for release in 2028, Apple is accelerating its development timeline. Despite this strategic pivot, Apple remains behind Meta, which introduced its first smart glasses back in 2021. This shift highlights Apple’s intent to prioritize AI integration and smart eyew
IoTsmart-glassesaugmented-realitywearable-technologyAppleAI-glassesconsumer-electronicsOura CEO talks potential IPO and ‘nonnegotiable’ data privacy
Oura Health CEO Tom Hale addressed the company's growth and potential plans for an initial public offering (IPO) amid reports valuing the health-tracking ring maker at nearly $11 billion. While Hale did not confirm any immediate IPO plans, he acknowledged that Oura has reached significant milestones in size, growth, and scale that make going public a viable option. He emphasized that the company will announce any such plans when the timing is appropriate. Oura is on track to generate $1 billion in revenue in 2025, doubling its revenue from the previous year. Hale also discussed data privacy concerns, particularly in relation to government data-sharing initiatives. He clarified that Oura aims to empower customers to share their data only when beneficial, rejecting any notion that data is shared indiscriminately with entities like the Trump administration. He stressed that protecting user data privacy and security is "nonnegotiable," especially given the potential risks if data were misused. Additionally, Hale shared a personal note on his own
IoTwearable-technologyhealth-trackingdata-privacysmart-devicesdigital-healthconsumer-electronicsApple debuts the ultra-thin iPhone Air
Apple has introduced the iPhone Air, its thinnest and lightest iPhone model to date, replacing the Plus model in the 2025 lineup following the iPhone 16 Plus's underperformance. The iPhone Air emphasizes ultra-thin design and lightness, featuring a titanium frame that weighs around 145 grams and measures just over 5.5 millimeters thick—making it thinner than current iPhones and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge. It sports a large 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate and is powered by the A19 Pro chip, offering enhanced performance compared to the base iPhone 17. Color options include space black, cloud white, light gold, and light blue. The iPhone Air draws inspiration from Apple’s MacBook Air strategy, which initially faced criticism for cost and performance but eventually became a top seller due to its portability and improved iterations. Similarly, the iPhone Air may set a new standard for future iPhones
materialssmartphone-designtitanium-framemobile-technologyApple-iPhonedevice-thinnessconsumer-electronicsThis headband uses electrical signals to help ease stress, balance mood
Studio Beyond, a Cambridge-based design firm led by Paul Gibson and Matt Maitland, has introduced Sometimes, a conceptual wearable headband designed to help users manage stress and balance mood through gentle electrical signals delivered to the nervous system. Drawing on research indicating that electrical stimulation can influence brain activity, the device uses electrodes to send carefully regulated pulses aimed at lowering stress without causing discomfort. Integrated sensors and a small processor continuously monitor and adjust these signals to ensure safety and user comfort. The Sometimes headband features an adjustable elastic band with electronic modules positioned likely over the temples or forehead, combining functionality with a consumer-friendly design that resembles familiar wearable products rather than clinical devices. It is intended for daily use without the need for surgery or medical training, reflecting a broader trend toward accessible, at-home neurotechnology solutions. However, it remains a concept at this stage, with no current plans for commercial release until further development transforms it into a functional product.
wearable-technologyneurotechelectrical-stimulationconsumer-electronicshealth-techsensorsbrain-activityMirror founder Brynn Putnam to unveil her gaming hardware startup at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
Brynn Putnam, founder of the fitness hardware company Mirror, is set to unveil her new gaming hardware startup at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 in San Francisco. Seven years after Mirror’s debut at the same event—which led to a $500 million acquisition by Lululemon—Putnam is shifting focus from individual fitness to fostering in-person social connections through technology. Her new venture, still in stealth mode, aims to create consumer gaming hardware that encourages face-to-face interaction, countering the trend of screen isolation. She emphasizes using mature, affordable components combined with innovative user experiences, inspired by Nintendo’s approach of “withered technology with lateral thinking.” Putnam’s new project reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing shared experiences and human connection, leveraging advances in display technology, AI, and hardware affordability. The gaming space is a natural extension of her expertise in motivating behavior change and creating engaging group experiences, as demonstrated by her work with boutique fitness and Mirror’s virtual classes. Investor confidence
gaming-hardwareconsumer-electronicsinteractive-devicesAI-technologyhardware-startupconnected-devicesuser-experienceiPhone 17, the ‘thinnest iPhone ever,’ and everything else we’re expecting out of Apple’s hardware event
Apple is expected to hold its annual hardware event on September 9, unveiling the iPhone 17 lineup along with updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. The iPhone 17 series will include the standard iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max models, featuring notable upgrades such as a slightly larger 6.3-inch screen for the base model with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 24-megapixel front camera, and new color options like purple and green. The Pro models may see a redesign of the rear camera layout and a material change from titanium to aluminum for the Pro’s frame to reduce weight and cost. The Pro Max is expected to have a thicker body to accommodate a larger battery. Pricing rumors suggest the iPhone 17 will start around $800, the Pro at $1,050, and the Pro Max at $1,250, with fewer storage options available on the Pro model. In addition to the main lineup, Apple might
materialssmartphonesAppleiPhone-17battery-technologydevice-designconsumer-electronicsBYD Develops Tablet In-House For New Fang Cheng Bao Tai 7 - CleanTechnica
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has further expanded its vertical integration by developing a custom in-house tablet for its upcoming Fang Cheng Bao Tai 7 model, set to launch later this year. While specific details about the tablet remain scarce, it is known that the device will integrate with the vehicle’s system and support multi-screen collaboration, enhancing in-car connectivity. This move aligns with growing consumer demand in China for advanced in-vehicle information systems and connectivity features. BYD’s development of its own tablet is part of a broader trend among Chinese EV makers to improve the digital experience for drivers, similar to Nio’s earlier attempts with its Nio Phone smartphones, although Nio has since paused that project due to financial constraints. BYD’s background as a major battery producer and a leading contract manufacturer for prominent electronics brands like Huawei and Xiaomi positions it well to create such integrated hardware. This step underscores BYD’s deep vertical integration, raising the question of which vehicle components it does not produce internally.
IoTelectric-vehiclesconnectivityvertical-integrationbattery-technologyconsumer-electronicsBYDWorld’s first drone with built-in 8K 360-degree camera set to challenge DJI
Chinese camera maker Insta360 is entering the consumer drone market with a new brand called Antigravity, set to unveil its first drone in August 2025. This lightweight drone, weighing under 249 grams, is notable for being the world’s first to feature a built-in 8K 360-degree camera, a significant innovation since users have previously relied on attaching external 360-degree cameras to drones. The drone will support real-time data transmission and in-flight camera control, targeting both professional and beginner users dissatisfied with existing drones that "looked good on paper but felt lifeless in the air." Antigravity, incubated by Insta360 in Shenzhen and developed by a global team, reflects the company’s expansion into aerial platforms. Antigravity faces strong competition from DJI, the dominant player in the global drone market with a 70% share in 2023. DJI is also launching its own 360-degree camera product, intensifying the rivalry between the two Shenzhen-based firms, which are
robotdrone-technology8K-cameraunmanned-aerial-vehiclereal-time-data-transmissionconsumer-electronicsShenzhen-tech-companiesCourt filings reveal OpenAI and io’s early work on an AI device
Recent court filings from a trademark dispute lawsuit between OpenAI, Jony Ive’s startup io, and Google-backed hardware company iyO have revealed new insights into OpenAI and io’s early efforts to develop a mass-market AI hardware device. The filings show that over the past year, OpenAI executives and former Apple leaders at io have extensively researched in-ear hardware, purchasing over 30 headphone sets to study existing products. Despite this focus, the first device from OpenAI and io is reportedly not an in-ear or wearable device, but its exact form factor remains undisclosed. Co-founder Tang Tan stated that the prototype mentioned by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is still in early development and at least a year away from market release. Altman has described the device as a “third device” complementing smartphones and laptops, capable of being pocket-sized or desk-based and fully aware of the user’s surroundings. The filings also reveal interactions between OpenAI/io and iyO leadership, including a May 1 meeting
AI-hardwarewearable-technologyOpenAIIoT-devicessmart-devicesAI-innovationconsumer-electronics