The Consumer Electronics show (CES) in Las Vegas has taken a significant step towards addressing the energy demands of the tech industry, particularly considering the growing reliance on cloud computing adn artificial intelligence (AI). For the first time,the CES has introduced a “energy transition” theme,reflecting the urgent need for innovative energy solutions as data centers are projected to consume 12% of the U.S. electricity by 2028, up from 4.4% in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Entrepreneurs like Sébastien Fiedorow of Aerleum, wich produces synthetic fuel from CO2 and hydrogen, emphasize the shift in focus from mere efficiency to sustainable energy production. European startups, such as LV Energy, which harnesses energy from sound and waves, are also showcasing their technologies, highlighting a collective effort to find viable solutions to the industry’s escalating energy crisis.At the CES in Las Vegas, the intersection of technology and intimacy is gaining traction, as the event embraces innovations in erotic tech. Companies like Motorbunny are showcasing products that merge gaming with adult pleasure, such as their “Fluffer” app, which syncs video game actions with Bluetooth-enabled sex toys. This shift marks a significant change in the event’s culture, which previously shunned erotic products. The growing interest reflects a broader acceptance of technology’s role in enhancing personal experiences, with attendees eager to explore the underlying tech rather than merely observe. As the CES evolves, it signals a new era where intimacy and innovation coexist, challenging traditional boundaries in the tech industry.A new bright garbage truck unveiled at the CES technology show is set to revolutionize waste management by identifying hazardous lithium batteries in recyclable materials. Developed by Republic Services in partnership with Oshkosh, this innovative vehicle utilizes artificial intelligence to detect and alert drivers about the presence of these possibly hazardous batteries, which have been linked to over 25,000 incidents of overheating and fires in the U.S.from 2017 to 2022. With the risk of thermal runaway leading to toxic gas emissions and explosions, the truck aims to enhance safety in recycling operations. Jon Vander Ark,CEO of Republic Services,emphasizes the importance of removing these batteries from the waste stream,highlighting the truck’s ability to document non-compliance through onboard cameras. This advancement not only addresses fire hazards but also improves accountability in waste collection.The smart glasses market is rapidly evolving, with products like Ray-Ban Meta leading the way in blending technology with everyday eyewear. Recent advancements in augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and miniaturization are driving this growth, as highlighted by a MarketsandMarkets study.Unlike the bulky Google Glass of the past, today’s smart glasses are designed to look like regular sunglasses while offering features such as photo and video capture, music playback, and object recognition. Though, thay currently lack augmented reality capabilities, a feature that could significantly increase their price. With competitors like the Chinese startup Vue offering entry-level models for around $200, the market is becoming increasingly competitive. As companies like Meta prepare to launch new models, including the anticipated Orion, the future of smart eyewear looks promising, with a focus on functionality and aesthetics.Meta has enhanced its Ray-Ban smart glasses with groundbreaking AI features,including real-time translation capabilities. This innovative update allows users to engage in conversations across languages, translating speech instantly between English and popular languages such as Spanish, French, and Italian. The smart glasses,which blend style with cutting-edge technology,are designed to facilitate seamless dialog,making them an essential tool for travelers and multilingual interactions. As the demand for smart wearable technology grows, Meta’s advancements position its Ray-Ban glasses as a leading choice in the competitive landscape of augmented reality devices, promising a more connected and interactive experience for users worldwide [1[1[1[1][3[3[3[3].
Discussion between Time.news Editor and Energy Technology Expert at CES 2024
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to this special discussion from the CES 2024 in Las Vegas! today, we delve into a critically important theme that’s emerged at this year’s event: the ”energy transition.” As we know, data centers are projected to consume an alarming 12% of U.S. electricity by 2028,a huge leap from 4.4% in 2023. What sparked this urgent focus on energy solutions at CES?
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s a pivotal moment for the tech industry. The surge in energy consumption is largely fueled by the vast demands of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, which require substantial electricity to operate, especially as their use becomes more widespread. By introducing the “energy transition” theme, CES acknowledges the pressing need for innovative and enduring energy practices—marking a shift from traditional efficiency to a more holistic approach involving sustainable energy output.
Editor: That’s fascinating. I noticed that entrepreneurs like Sébastien Fiedorow from Aerleum are focusing on producing synthetic fuel from CO2 and hydrogen. Could you elaborate on how these innovations might impact the energy landscape?
Expert: Absolutely! Fiedorow’s work represents a critical pivot in how we think about fuel. Rather than solely focusing on efficiency in existing systems, his approach emphasizes the progress of wholly new energy sources that can lessen our dependence on traditional fossil fuels. By utilizing CO2 as a feedstock and harnessing hydrogen—especially green hydrogen produced from renewable sources—we can create a more sustainable cycle. These technologies are critical in addressing not only energy demand but also environmental impact.
editor: Alongside synthetic fuels, there’s also excitement around European startups like LV Energy, which harnesses energy from sound and waves. what role do you see such advancements playing in the overall energy strategy?
Expert: The innovations from startups like LV Energy illustrate the creativity needed to address our energy challenges.By capturing energy from sound and waves, they are leveraging untapped resources that can provide cleaner energy alternatives. Such diverse approaches are essential—there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to the energy crisis. Combining various sources of renewable energy can create a more resilient and sustainable framework for our future energy needs.
Editor: That’s a great point. Additionally,CES is embracing another intriguing aspect—innovations in erotic tech. How do these advancements interconnect with the broader energy discussions happening on the floor, if at all?
Expert: Interestingly, the discussions around intimate technology could parallel our energy transition in terms of design and sustainability. As the tech industry innovates across various sectors, including personal devices and home ecosystems, its essential to incorporate energy efficiency and sustainability into these products from the ground up. Whether it’s sexy gadgets or AI-driven apps, if they are designed with energy optimization in mind, they, too, can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Editor: It’s refreshing to see how diverse innovation can coexist and support broader sustainability goals. As we move forward, what do you believe are the most critical steps the tech industry must take to secure its energy future?
expert: The key steps include investing considerably in research and development of sustainable technologies, fostering partnerships between startups and large corporations, and creating policy frameworks that incentivize green innovation.Transitioning to a sustainable energy landscape requires collaboration across sectors and a commitment to integrating energy-efficient designs into all technological advancements. it’s an exciting time,and I believe we’ll see significant progress in this direction.
Editor: Thank you for your insights! It’s clear that the energy demands of our tech-driven world call for urgent and bold solutions. We appreciate you taking the time to share your expertise at CES 2024.
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these critical issues.