The international Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the largest gathering of innovators and technology enthusiasts in the world.* This event draws the biggest corporations and the newest startups, all vying to be part of the next big trend in electronics, which, of course, includes accounting information technology.
The most advanced PCs, displays and, now, AI-infused technologies are often debuted at CES, and my assignment from Rightworks was to identify key trends and products that could have an impact on the accounting profession, as well as for accountants as consumers in the year ahead.
Here’s what I learned.
AI-optimized PCs
Whether you’re looking for a car, a washing machine or a personal computer, integration of AI and machine learning capabilities was definitely the key theme of this year’s CES.
Intel’s demo room touted the latest laptops from Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc., which now have an integrated NPU (neural processing unit) designed to optimize the local performance of generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) and take that burden off the computer (CPU) and graphics (GPU) chips.
In addition, Microsoft added a Copilot key to the keyboard to launch AI capabilities similar to how the Windows key launches Windows applications.
According to the latest CPAFMA IT survey
Dell continues to be the most selected brand by accountants, and Dell touted the expansion of its XPS line to new 14-inch and 16-inch display models with the super-narrow bezels (screen edges) that Dell is famous for, as well as a seamless glass touchpad with haptic feedback. Dell also improved its battery life by adding ExpressCharge, which recharges the battery to 80% capacity in one hour.
Displays
Dell
Computer monitors are always big at CES. Dell’s UltraSharp 40 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor was an Innovation Award Honoree as the first 40-inch 5K monitor certified with 5 Star Eye Comfort. (Basically, it causes less eye strain.) The display also has a Thunderbolt 4 hub that can provide up to 140W of power, along with an RJ45 Ethernet jack, HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 connection.
ASUS
ASUS’s press event was virtual this year. They touted the ZenScreen Fold OLED 17.3-inch display, consisting of two connected 12.5-inch HD displays that compact/fold for travel and open up to the 17.3-inch format for work. ASUS’s ZenScreen and MB168 mobile monitors continue to be the most prevalent in use, but ViewSonic mobile monitors are making inroads with new models touted at CES.
Microsoft Teams coming to a car near you
Another noticeable trend: All major car and technology companies touted partnerships and innovations to take over which technology will be dominant within today’s automobile.
Intel announced the acquisition of Silicon Mobility, which makes system-on chips (SoCs) for automobiles, so they also envision turning your car into a PC.
This all points to cars eventually becoming an autonomous mobile computing platform that accountants will use to optimize work (or personal entertainment) when they are in transit.
Seriously, when you think of how much you can now do on your smartphone and PC, imagine all those capabilities being maximized within your car.
This was evidenced by VW announcing the integration of ChatGPT in their eVehicles and Microsoft Teams now running on Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay, so “they” will be able to find you even on the road.
eMobility
Individual mobility was also a noticeable trend at this year’s CES.
Multiple vendors showed that an electric motor can be integrated into virtually any device. Not only in the expected electric cars and drones, but also in eMotorcycles, eBikes, eScooters, eSkis and eRollerSkates. (See our CPA Practice Advisor article on the craziest gadgets from CES for more.)
For those moments when you can’t make a quick run to the store…
Walmart announced that they are providing on-demand drone delivery in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex this year.
Partnering with Wing and Zipline, Walmart wanted a 30-minute or less delivery option (with some deliveries in less than 10 minutes!) for when you forgot birthday candles, need over-the-counter cold medicine or you really, really want Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups!
Hydrogen power: The biggest ‘surprise’ technology theme
The adoption of hydrogen fuel cells for power generation was touted by car companies (such as Hyundai) and electric motor manufacturers (such as Bosch).
One of the messages I picked up on was that these fuel cells were more effective for supplying power for semi-trucks carrying heavy loads for long hauls.
Multiple vendors also announced that the US government was investing $7B to build seven hydrogen energy hubs around the United States that would be able to supply hydrogen for the fuel cells.
Hyundai also announced they had developed technology that could turn organic waste, and even plastics, into hydrogen, which could end up being a sustainable and eco-friendly energy source for the United States in the future.
Today’s innovations are tomorrow’s reality
Successful consumer electronics often include technological innovations that eventually find their way into our accounting offices. It’s worthwhile monitoring this next generation of technologies. The team at Rightworks proactively attends industry venues, conferences and thought leader events. Subscribe to our blog today to ensure you get the latest information and stay up to date.
*CES is simply HUGE. Imagine 130,000 attendees simultaneously perusing 10,000 products spread over 2.3 million square feet of exhibit space. I put on my Hokas and, in three and half days, knocked out 88,232 steps. I still didn’t come close to covering everything. Learn more about the innovations I saw at CES.
Photo credit: Consumer Technology Association
