CES 2024: Awards Reveal Best and Worst in Show
By Associated Press
Published Jan. 11, 2024, 6:32 p.m. ET
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is known for showcasing the latest and greatest in technology, but this year there were also notable innovations that could pose serious risks to consumers. A panel of experts held the third annual contest to determine the “Worst in Show” products, with some technologies being highlighted for their potential harm to society.
One of the recipients of the dubious award was automotive technology, particularly BMW’s partnership with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant. The experts raised concerns about the potential for abusive domestic situations where voice-controlled car functions could be manipulated by perpetrators to track and harm victims. BMW has defended its technology, stating that customers have the choice to opt-out of using the voice assistant.
Another product in the spotlight was Sennheiser’s fourth generation Momentum True Wireless ear headphones. Priced at $300, these earbuds were criticized for their lack of repairability and disposable design. According to iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens, the earbuds contain three separate batteries that are likely to fail after a few years, leading to concerns about e-waste and sustainability.
In the realm of grocery shopping, Instacart’s “AI-powered” shopping cart received strong backlash for its integration of video ads and real-time recommendations based on a customer’s shopping behavior. Critics argue that the technology exacerbates consumer overwhelm and pushes unhealthy food options to customers based on their purchasing history.
The rise of Internet-connected appliances also faced scrutiny, with a Chinese robot vacuum-maker and a company showcasing a $1,800 “macrowave” combining a microwave with a convection oven being singled out for privacy and environmental concerns, respectively.
While CES often highlights groundbreaking innovations, it’s important to remember the potential negative impacts that certain technologies may have on privacy, safety, and sustainability. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the well-being and protection of consumers in the development of new products.