CES 2020: Technology Convergence is Shaping the Future

We only need one word to describe all the inspiring and exciting technologies we saw at CES 2020: ‘convergence’

At the show, we saw how the convergence of hardware, software and A.I. is driving the creation of smart solutions to improve virtually every aspect of our daily lives. From making our streets and highways safer, building smart cities, and improving the quality of healthcare for people worldwide, the convergence of technology is shaping our world.

Nowhere was this more evident than at the Self-Driving Technology CES 2020 Marketplace. We saw autonomous cars that will go into production in the next few years. We also saw some futuristic concept cars like the Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR, which CNET’s Steven Ewing summarized perfectly: “Nothing says CES like a concept car with ‘bionic flaps.’"

Hyundai and Uber demonstrated an industry convergence in mobility that predicted a time when we will fly around cities in helicopter taxis. Sony built its Vision-S concept car to demonstrate how the dozens of sensors in its new connected car platform combine to create a “Safety Cocoon”.

Sony’s car was one example of how companies are integrating innovative sensors, optics, photonics and other hardware products powered by new software applications and AI technologies into their cars and trucks. CES 2020 was a major showcase for the evolution of LiDAR (light detection and ranging) systems in particular. The number of LiDAR exhibitors like Cepton Technologies seems to grow exponentially every year, and this year was no exception.

And it’s not only the auto manufacturers who are incorporating these technologies into their vehicles. Unexpected partners are joining forces and converging on mobility as a platform.

“We stand at the dawn of a new mobility age as the rapid progression of hardware, software and AI technologies creates a new mobility-as-a-service product ecosystem,” says Irene Sterian, P. Eng., Director, Technology and Innovation Development.at Celestica. “These advancements in mobility are evident in airplanes, cars, mass transit systems and even scooters with greater levels of sophistication, power, performance to make safe, more efficient and affordable transportation options available to more people worldwide.” 

The convergence trend was also on full display at the digital healthcare exhibition space, where companies showed how they are rising to the challenge of providing patients with more control over their healthcare, including in their homes. 

Myant won an award for its Textiles fabric that enables clothing manufacturers to integrate biosensors and actuators that measure heart rate, stress levels, and sleep quality into the fibers. Royal Philips showed solutions designed to improve oral care, sleep quality, and to help expectant mothers play a key role in monitoring the health and development of their babies. Neofect USA let attendees try out its Smart Balance platform that helps stroke victims regain their balance and ability to walk. 

What makes the convergence trend so exciting is that its impact is not limited to the design and production of individual products, it’s also driving the creation of new technology and industry platforms. Now, the smart home, smart car and smart cities are becoming platforms for the integration of many individual technologies that will impact entire communities and transform how people live, work and play.