Las Vegas, NV—The recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Center illuminated a compelling shift in focus. As we navigated through the vast array of cutting-edge innovations, one overarching theme stood out among the rest: the transformative power of self-tech. From January 9 to January 12, CES 2024 showcased many advancements that not only redefined our relationship with technology but also promised to shape the way we prioritize self-preservation, self-protection, self-awareness, self-monitoring, self-pampering, and beyond.

CES 2024 unveiled a captivating narrative of how technology is increasingly becoming an integral part of our self-care routines.  

At the heart of this trend lies the impressive integration of artificial intelligence, constituting a remarkable 28% of the entire show. The exposition not only delved into robotics but also explored the realms of smart home entertainment and office hardware, comprising 13% of the exhibits. Sustainability took center stage at 11%, with innovations in gaming and esports, devices catering to pets, fitness, and even sexual wellness contributing to the multifaceted dialogue surrounding automated self-care.

Brian Comiskey, CES resident "futurist," lent his insights, emphasizing how accessibility tech is seamlessly finding its place in diverse sectors such as digital health, mobility, and gaming. The evolution of technology from a mere aspirational concept to a significant agent of change is evident, with initiatives spanning critical areas like healthcare, climate change mitigation, and digital inclusion.

Amy McDonald, Owner and CEO of Under a Tree Consultancy, wellness industry developers and advisors, shared that she walked away from this trade show with hope and the utmost reverence and respect for the human spirit, saying, “Bright minds are making more solutions accessible and diseases more preventable."

As we delve into the intricate details of the showcased products, it becomes clear that CES 2024 was more than just a display of gadgets—it was a glimpse into the future of self-tech. Spectacular products were uncovered by ingenious brands that are poised to reshape the way we engage with technology, fostering a new era of automated self-care. Here are some of the highlights:

Gadgets elevating our hobbies and our senses

In a world where technology continues to weave itself into the fabric of our lives, the fusion of gadgets with personal interests and hobbies is emerging as a defining self-tech trend. This evolution not only enhances our experience, but also nurtures a sense of community around shared passions. The intersection of innovation, music, communication, and technology is exemplified by MyManu, a brand on a mission to unleash limitless potential.

MyManu's groundbreaking products, such as the Titan, the world's first 4G earbuds, and an advanced conference speaker, showcase the company's commitment to removing barriers and transforming fiction into reality. By seamlessly integrating passion with cutting-edge technology, MyManu is elevating the way we connect, communicate, and enjoy our activities. 

Moonbird takes a different approach by guiding users through slow-paced breathing exercises. With a focus on simplicity and the profound impact of breath, Moonbird's product lowers stress, improves sleep quality, and reduces anxiety within minutes, emphasizing the transformative power of a mindful breath.

Another standout in this space is Birdfy, a subsidiary brand of Netvue, which has bridged the gap between technology and nature. Estelle Yang, PR Manager, highlights Birdfy's evolution from a focus on security camera technology to the establishment of the Birdfy series, emphasizing the brand's dedication to providing innovative bird-watching solutions. With features like real-time bird sightings, close-up observation, and species identification, Birdfy has garnered a community of around 200,000 users worldwide, prioritizing customer relationships and fostering joy in exploring the avian world.

SABRE empowers people with confidence through its top-of-the-line security tools for convenient, easy to use, and affordable personal protection. For commuting, traveling, nighttime outings, on-campus strolls, hiking in the woods, walking in the city, and much more, SABRE creates peace of mind. From their alarms to pepper sprays, SABRE is an essential personal safety device that everyone needs to feel safe and protected, no matter where they are. 

heat it is a handy medical device that fits on your keychain, scientifically proven to treat itching and pain from bug bites with heat while plugged into a smartphone, without any chemicals. This product is scientifically proven to stop the histamine release triggered by bug bites that cause itching. 

Vixion enters the scene with industry-disrupting eye tech that not only adjusts lens thickness in real time but also protects eyes from overwork, relieving long-term stress. This wearable, sharable, and giftable prescription-free frame expands our ability to see, enhancing choices and illuminating the world in a new, enriched way.

EarFun, established in 2018, has swiftly become one of the most acclaimed wireless audio brands globally. Driven by a passion for music, EarFun's Hi-Res wireless earbuds offer premium sound without breaking the bank, aligning with their mission to provide high-quality sound that is accessible to all. Their slogan, "Better Sound, Better Life," encapsulates the belief that technology can seamlessly enhance modern lifestyles, making every listening experience a little more magical. 

As these innovative gadgets continue to redefine our hobbies and senses, it becomes evident that self-tech is not just about convenience – it's about fostering connections, joy, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

3D, virtual shopping

While many have become accustomed to the convenience of two-dimensional shopping from the comfort of their homes, the emergence of 3D virtual shopping at CES introduces an entirely new dimension to the consumer web.

Obsess, at the forefront of this paradigm shift, is pioneering the next generation of online shopping interfaces with their proprietary patented technology. Founded by Neha Singh, a former software engineer at Google and Head of Product at Vogue, Obsess is on a mission to reinvent the shopping experience. The company is transforming the conventional thumbnail grid, which has been the standard for 25 years, into an immersive, interactive, and highly engaging visual experience. Obsess empowers brands and retailers to tell their stories and showcase products in a modern, innovative format, leveraging the latest virtual technologies.

Emova takes the concept of virtual shopping even further with an exceptional virtual fitting experience designed for luxury and fashion. This innovative solution creates a hyper-realistic 3D avatar from a simple selfie in less than 30 seconds, offering users a precise and emotional virtual fitting experience. Emova's technology, focused on the face, surpasses augmented reality in accuracy and is particularly relevant for industries like jewelry, cosmetics, and fashion accessories. Going beyond the virtual realm, Emova also addresses the importance of securing and protecting users' unique appearances by offering a blockchain and NFT solution to ensure the safeguarding of users' avatars.

The convergence of Obsess and Emova at CES showcases the potential of 3D virtual shopping to revolutionize the way consumers engage with products. From immersive storytelling to hyper-realistic virtual fittings, these brands are spearheading a new era where the boundaries between the digital and real worlds blur, delivering an enriched and secure shopping experience for consumers. As we step into this futuristic realm, it's clear that the future of retail is not just about products but about the experiences they create for shoppers in the digital landscape.

Tech that renews skin

Putting your best skin forward is essential and better skin shouldn’t require more and more products and time. Fresh skin is the key to long lasting makeup and when your skin is more vibrant, supple, and smooth, you feel good about how you look. Getting the right primer that works for you will give you that photo-finish look, all day long. Radiance and a glow is the biggest reward.  

Fia Air Primer is a biotech sensation that is set to improve the lives of millions, no matter the skin type! It immediately elevates makeup adherence (no more frequent touch-ups!), and significantly improves appearance of skin with acne, enlarged pores and oiliness in the long-term, as well as increases the skin’s absorption. With or without makeup, the skin becomes more refined, renewed and restored. When used consistently for two weeks, the company says skin appears more vibrant, smooth, and supple. 

Sparking electro-beauty

Electro-beauty is a new, synergistic and captivating territory where technology meets beauty traditions, creating a harmonious fusion that elevates the art of self-care. Electronic sophistication is redefining beauty rituals in this new era of high-tech cosmetic devices. There are now more skincare solutions and unique methods for facial rejuvenation that blend seamlessly with the grace and poise that defines cosmetic beauty.

One example is Lustre Skin care which is using a medical-grade LED mask that first came to the market treating post cancer patients with scarring. This initially put them on the map. They now have a range of LED masks and they truly stand out with their medical and FDA stamp products. 

Beautigloo is a French brand specializing in electro-beauty appliances and tools used for your wellness routine. From refrigerated beauty boxes and cryo sticks to gua sha rollers and collagen droplets, Beautigloo is a resource for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation. They continue to innovate while focusing on excellence. 

lululab is a skin data-based healthcare platform that encourages people to enjoy a better life filled with wellness and happiness. Their AI skin solution, which includes age prediction and face photography, analyzes skin from people around the world and is set to ultimately expand into the field of predicting diseases. The company says its algorithm acquired two million skin data from around the globe and it has an accuracy of 92%, certified by a professional evaluation agency. 

Natural and eco-conscious hair care

In this pursuit of natural and eco-conscious beauty, K Headspa emerges as a pioneer offering a holistic experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional hair care. Beyond the mere aesthetics of hair washing, K Headspa is committed to rejuvenating the scalp, enhancing hair quality, and even bestowing a more youthful appearance to the face. The journey begins with meticulous scalp analysis, ensuring a personalized and tailored approach to each individual's needs. Beyond hair-focused care, K Headspa indulges patrons with soothing foot rubs, the use of specialized acidic water and steam, and a unique life massage. These techniques collectively enhance blood circulation, improve nutrient delivery to hair follicles, and stimulate fascial tissues, creating an immersive and rejuvenating experience.

Device for Alzeihmer’s patients

Creating a truly transformative device for Alzheimer's patients involves addressing the unique challenges and needs associated with the condition. While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, innovative technologies can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.  Social Dream and its headset, Dreamsens aim to enhance and bring back memories and life to patients suffering from Alzhiermer’s. Th company says this device can stimulate neurol pathways in the brain that are linked to memory and is proven to be a game-changer for people suffering from this disease and it is reinforcement in bringing back positive emotions. 

Your natural, ecological and original space

Every home is overwhelmed with an abundance of electronic products, chargers, hard drives, and cables that lead to significant resource waste and chaos. Nekospace says it has created a one-of-a-kind, low voltage track system with the MET, that keeps space sleek and charged. A minimalist aesthetic home space experience for users that stimulates the senses, encourages personal creativity, and provides a diverse and comfortable atmosphere. Their no more wires revolution is a green alternative, an effort to reduce resource waste as well as utilize recyclable and reusable materials within your space. Space is not just a container but a medium that guides emotions, inspires ideas, and showcases individuality.

TV for your furry friend

Dogs don’t have the same color vision as humans and they have a different kind of sensitivity and blurred vision when it comes to screens that are designed for humans. So, for a dog to have a safe and comfortable viewing experience, it needs a device designed with specific settings and filters. Dogsplay is a first-of-its kind technology designed to entertain dogs in a format they can engage with to enhance their overall wellbeing. This all-in-one solution keeps your furry friend entertained and connected even when you’re apart. It has a dog-safe design and host tailored features to ensure your dog’s happiness and comfort. The key features include optimization of visuals, delivery of a richer audio experience, engagement with unlimited pet media and a simple user interface to interact in real time. Experience a new level of companionship where fun and safety come together for your beloved canine.

An easy and accessible way to exercise

We’re all looking for an easier, more convenient and pleasant way to exercise as we age. Having equipment at home makes a difference so we can exercise on our own schedule and without limitations of time or weather. Having a unique product that offers the freedom of movement, helps us progress in our healthy lifestyle and aids in our fitness goals is a win-win.  

From foldable treadmills to portable plunges, LifeSmart has affordable technologies that make it easy to live well at home. Their product WalkingPad started with a search for exercise equipment that is not limited by space. This foldable treadmill offers you new ideas and mature technology that let you walk and run in your home or office, without any limitations of time and weather. The Walking Pad is a revolutionary new product with numerous technology patents and design patents, which makes it a unique new product that cannot be copied. The body can be folded 180°, with smart step sensing speed control.

Pillow power: changing sleep for good

A good night's sleep is vital for overall health and well-being because it plays a crucial role in various physiological and cognitive functions. Sleep deprivation affects your physical and mental health as well as your energy levels, immune function and hormonal regulation and cardiovascular health. Developing healthy sleep habits reduces health risks and is a crucial aspect in maintaining a balanced and effervescent lifestyle.  

LifeSmart’s Sleep Oasis product can impact your overall health and lifestyle because it is a shortcut to a night of intelligent sleep. It provides adequate sleep support so that your body can re-energize and fight off ailments. It aids in the functions of the mind and body as well as internal properties. This high-tech pillow brings next level comfort to your nightly routine.

Safe tech for kids 

Children need a safe tech haven where they can explore and engage. From a child’s very first phone to the first camera in their collection, they embark on a journey of discovery, connection, and joy. Kids need to be welcomed into a digital world where they’re thought of first and where safety is the top priority as well as healthy connection with friends and family. A platform that encourages people to come together rather than be secluded is necessary.  

myFirst elevates and empowers the way children are introduced to technology with a selection of smart watches and phones that keep them seamlessly connected to experience the thrill of exploration while staying safe. They created the world’s first kids’ tech ecosystem with a vision to redesign the way kids learn and play, in hopes of creating a community where children can grow up with technology safely introduced in their lives before they get in touch with the challenges of the adult tech world. They envision being a part of every child’s first electronic adventure.

One touch, many touch points

Having technology that simplifies life and empowers all people, not just the most interested, is long lasting. Smart and sustainable home devices and equipment are beneficial for people and the environment. When you create digital services that are more accessible and easier to use, then anyone can understand it and operate it. Everyone should have the gift of technology that adds to their life.  

Flic claims to be the first smart button that will automate and elevate your home, simplifying the control of all home devices without apps or voice, through one touch. It removes unnecessary friction and boils down the experience of interacting with a service to a simple button push. Since its inception, Flic has integrated with big smart home players while also expanding their B2B business to hospitality, healthcare and so many more industries.

Ag tech at home

The current food system is broken due to food being harvested from farms hundreds of miles away, losing more than half of the nutrients along the way. A brand working on fixing and modernizing this system is Rise Gardens, an app enabled indoor garden system. Their mission is to connect people to the food they eat by inspiring them to grow food that they are proud of and can enjoy with family and friends. You don’t have to be garden smart to own a smart garden.

Smarter sexual wellness

Whether starting out fresh or experienced with every toy, there is no wrong way to pursue satisfaction. Having options that cater to all levels of experience, all desires, all body types, all preferences, is essential. SVAKOM, the world leader in intelligent intimate products, is aiming to revolutionize the category with innovative, affordable and pleasurable luxury products that are ahead of the curve, interactive, quality, easy and enjoyable to use. 

Robotics for physical and mental aid as well as business operations

The relationship between humans and robots is evolving rapidly. There is a shift toward establishing a connection where our mind and body symbiotically work with robots. Where robots complement and support our functions without fully replacing or inhibiting them. It’s also vital to optimize business operations or repetitive and mundane tasks in the chaotic world we live in, so we have more time for what truly matters. This is a pivotal turning point for robotics and how fitting they are for our functionality, health and wellness and overall longevity.

Having spent over 20 years researching robotics, Wirobotics believes robotics can complement and support human physical and cognitive functions without replacing them. One of their products, WIBS, supports the lower back by manually adjusting the stiffness. Wearing WIBS does not constrain your physical movement and it will help prevent musculoskeletal injuries by reducing muscle strain and metabolic energy. They are there to enhance capabilities and potential. Their robots safely and dynamically interact with people and their wearable robots make it easy, comfortable, and safe for everyone to use to maximize their work-out.

Richtech Robotics offers a complete robotics solution whether you’re looking to automate production, cleaning or delivery. They have robust automated solutions that generate revenue and solve your business problems. Since its inception, this brand has been implemented across the country in restaurants, hotels, casinos, senior living homes, factories and retail centers. Their goal is to bring people together by automating the tasks that keep them apart.

A new application of reduction therapy for addiction

The pandemic has led many people to smoke again. The basic requirement for abstinence, the motivation to try to quit smoking, has been declining for years. Most smokers are unable to stop smoking until it’s too late. Five to 10 attempts are usually required, which often extend over decades. In addition to smoking-related diseases, the quality of life is also significantly negatively affected.

Luna Medical has set a goal to improve people’s lives through digital health applications and they started with tobacco addition. Their application, CiQuit reduction therapy, treats tobacco addiction as a chronic disease. Tobacco addiction treatment begins before you attempt to quit smoking. Their clinical trials showed positive results in their proof-of-principle study. This study was able to show that significant improvements were achieved in all surveyed indicators of the severity of tobacco dependence after just 8 weeks of therapy. CiQuit helps you regain control over your own smoking behavior and develops motivation to quit smoking. It’s about breaking the vicious cycle of addiction.

Innovative healthcare services 

Changing your bad habits make a meaningful improvement of your health. You may get used to new healthy habits easily and quickly, making your lifestyle consistent and sustainable.  

Ceragem has been introducing innovative healthcare services that represent a lifestyle to keep you healthy and balanced. Their philosophy is that true healthcare starts at home. Unparalleled solutions developed by Ceragem with experts and specialists based on insightful understandings and specialties in spinal care. They provide systematic and scientific solutions to improve your balance in health-related habits, utilizing data gathered from your everyday activities.

As we navigated through the expansive halls of the trade show, these emerging brands captivated us not only with tangible gadgets but also groundbreaking concepts that will redefine how we interact with technology. There are so many possibilities with the application of self tech that continue to expand, ushering in a new era of technological excellence and we are here taking it all in. We cannot wait to see what CES 2025 brings.

For more trends, read the latest from trendspotter Nancy Trent.