Take 5: Best Moments of CES 2014

Each year becomes increasingly easier to navigate the overflowing show floors of the International CES. So, hold on tight if this was your first year. Next year will definitely be better. As a second time returnee to CES, I focused my efforts on checking out the products, and attending the keynotes (except Marissa Mayer’s, sigh). From John Chambers'(Cisco CEO) keynote, the Intel booth, to 3D printing, I left CES with compelling ideas, creative content and a long list of new technology to purchase. Check out five of my favorite moments from CES 2014!

1. Sony Announces Streaming Services, New phones and 4K TVs!

Sony made some intriguing announcements beginning with their goal to create more products driving an emotional value. Kazou Hirai, Sony CEO, said “It’s not just functional value that people desire but the deeper, more elusive emotional value.” Hirai said, in the Japanese culture, this is referred to as kando. Amongst the products unveiled were new 4K televisions, an updated Xperia phone – the Xperia Z1S (includes: 20.7 MP camera, F2.0, waterproof, and connects with SmartWatch — probably makes your phone look like sh$t). Finally, Sony announced the streaming service PlayStation Now, allowing PlayStation 4 users to stream all their favorite games from the previous PlayStations.

2. Smart Cities are the future. – Cisco Keynote by John Chambers

“2014 will be the transformational, pivotal point for the Internet of the Everything.” The Internet of Everything, John Chambers estimates, is a $19 trillion revenue opportunity. When focusing specifically on smart cities, Chambers quotes a revenue boost of $4.6 trillion dollars! How will this happen? According to Chambers, beginning with these three changes will revolutionize cities and drive increased revenue: 1. Smart shopping carts 2. Smart waste management 3. Smart street lighting. Look out for my future post sharing additional insights from this keynote.

3.    Sexy Vehicle Alert – Infiniti Q50 meets Intel

Who wants needs another sexy vehicle in their life? I certainly do. Arriving at the slightly oversized Intel booth at CES, I stood outside of the entrance for the moment mesmerized by the beautiful Infiniti Q50. Utilizing Intel technology, the Infiniti Q50 now has an InTouch infotainment creating an official social driving experience. Intel says the, “mobile apps allow you to stay connected to Facebook activity, listen to your favorite Pandora playlist, and even access contacts, calendar, and emails all on the convenient dual touch-screen display.” Specs include: Intel powered InTouch apps, 360 net horsepower and up to 36 MPG, 14 Bose speakers, 24 hour concierge, Lane Departure Prevention with active lane control, Infiniti InTuition ™; a fully customizable digital environment for storing driver settings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Speck + SYTYCD = Long Live the Machines!

As a marketer, I make a goal at conferences of finding creative booths driving engagement. Having said that, Speck’s stood out from the rest. Intrigued by the Speck sign in the North Hall, I asked the rep what was going on. She stamped my hand and encouraged me to head to the South Hall, look through their new products and receive a free Speck iPhone 5 case! Awesome right? Upon arriving, I had the chance to watch Cyrus Spencer (of SYTYCD fame, hi boo!) perform at the booth behind an array of recently customized Speck iPhone 5 cases. With his amazing robotic-like dance skills, Cyrus showed us why the theme was Long Live the Machines! While there, I checked out some of the new products in the Speck lineup including their CandyShell Cases – boasting a wide range of color, military grade protection, a hard outer shell, and rubbery interior. All in all, creative booth, incredible performance and I love my new case!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – AT&T Developer Summit

Best concert ever, enough said! Thank you AT&T.