Thank you to CTA for having us as media guests for CES this year. I hope you enjoy our favorite picks for the best of CES: Tech in 2020.
It’s official, I’m now a full-fledged CES veteran. It lured me in again with its promises of seeing the latest and greatest tech, with all the bright lights and dazzle that only CES can bring. Even I will brave a Vegas trip for that. The Consumer Electronics Show happened earlier this month, and for the third year in a row we were there to cover it. It was an exhausting week shuttling around town, seeing thousands of products, and learning all about the newest tech that will be released this year, but it was well worth it.
Best of CES: Tech in 2020
Whereas the first two years attending I was just getting my groove, my third run at it I was prepared for everything. No busy schedules filled with booth meetings at specific times, no running from venue to venue spending way too much money and time traveling from place to place, and I absolutely learned my lesson about just leaving early if I was done at an event.
Now that CES is over, and I’m sharing my favorite finds from on the floor, events, and parties we attended. From Smart Home to tech that can go with you on the go, there’s a whole lot to be excited about in tech this year.
Smart Home at CES
Sharp SuperSteam+
You’ve seen one oven, you’ve seen them all, right? Well, how about one with a whole new way of cooking beyond convection, baking, and broiling? Sharp is bringing steam ovens to the US in a big way for 2020 and changing the face of cooking. Their new SuperSteam+ option doesn’t just use steam, but it’s also the only oven to use super-heated steam up to 485°F, which is hot enough to brown foods, so you can make crispy bacon and crunchy cookies. Not ready for an entirely new oven? The Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven with large 12″x12″ cooking area for family-sized sheet pan meals is for you. It may be small, but it can take over most of your oven cooking and leave your larger range for holiday dinners and entertaining a crowd. Find out more at SharpUSA.com and follow Sharp on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
U by Moen Smart Shower
How smart can a shower really be, you’re probably wondering. After checking out all the Moen options, I can tell you – it can be pretty darn smart. There are really two types of people: those that preheat the shower before getting in and waste thousands of gallons of water each year or those that hop in before it’s fully warmed up so they don’t waste water. Or, at least this used to be the case. Now with U by Moen you can create a personalized shower that is controlled by either your voice, your phone, or your U by Moen controller, which means you can even personalize the way you start your shower each day. How cool would it be to control your shower with just your voice, setting it at a specific temperature, creating presets, and more so you never have to waste tons of water or shower in the cold again. Now you can, and showers will never be the same again. Find out more at Moen.com and follow Moen on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Walabot DIY Wall Scanner
This may not be something you would use every day, but when you need it, you really, really need it. The Walabot DIY allows you to virtually see inside your walls without having to cut holes or just guess where the studs, wires, pipes, and metal braces are. Imagine knowing exactly what you’re aiming at and where it will hit within the wood or drywall – all before you even pick up a drill. That’s what Walabot DIY can offer, and it will soon become a must-have for even a casual DIYer that doesn’t want costly damage due to nails and screws hitting items that are hidden inside walls. Should I mention that it’s also incredibly fun to use and completely eliminates any need to make a bad “stud finder” joke from any dad within DIY range? You’re welcome, ladies. Find out more at Walabot.com and follow Vayyar on Facebook and Twitter.
Roborock H6 Cordless Vacuum
Oh vacuums, you just keep getting cooler and cooler. Remember the days when vacuums were either effective OR cordless? Well, now they can be both. The Roborock H6 shows us that extreme suction is possible and can remove dirt from carpets, beds, stairs, and even be taken outside to detail your car – all without cords getting in the way. Not only that, but it also offers 5 layer air filtration to eliminate pollutants and allergens, which makes this allergy-ridden mama very happy. The newest H6 will be out this year and offers up to 90 minutes of cleaning in eco-mode (unheard of, right?) and even has an easy-view screen that displays the modes, remaining charge, and more. Find out more at the Roborock website and follow them on Facebook.
Home Security at CES
Lockly Vision Smart Lock with camera
We’ve been looking at smart locks for years now, and I’ve been hesitant to buy until I found one that solved all of my issues with smart locks. Namely, I wanted one that made it impossible for someone to peek over your shoulder and learn your code since I have young children who aren’t great at being discrete. That’s where Lockly’s Peek-proof Pin Genie technology comes in that randomizes the numbers each time and makes it so the pin changes configuration. Not only that, but Lockly also has a 3D Fingerprint Scanner so you don’t need a pin or key at all, as well as mobile app that allows you to create codes and lock/unlock remotely. Lockly Vision also included a camera so I can potentially eliminate the need for a separate doorbell cam entirely. It works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can connect it to your already smart home. Find out more at Lockly.com and follow Lockly on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Ooma Smart Security
You’ve seen everything in home security at this point, right? You’ve seen the monitored plans and the DIY and you’ve seen cameras connected to a smart home device, but you’re somewhere in between all three. I hear that, and that’s why there’s Ooma. With Ooma’s build-it-yourself security system you can stay connected to what matters, at the office and at home right from your phone. From knowing when family members are home to checking in on that leaky faucet, Ooma Smart Security keeps you updated notified of everything that happens in your home while you’re away. You can choose a monitored plan that allows you to call 911 with a press of a button, or you can choose to do it the DIY way and monitor it yourself. No matter which you choose, you will know your home is safe and sound wherever you are. Get an accurate, comprehensive look into your home’s activity. Our smart, small, and easy-to-install sensors cover water detection, 24/7 monitoring, and much more. Find out more at Ooma.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Remo+ DoorCam 2
We’ve all seen doorbell cams, but what can you do if your house isn’t compatible with one like mine isn’t? That’s when you look into the Remo+ DoorCam 2 that is super easy to install over the top of the door, has 2-way talk, night vision, and can even be powered by batteries. All that and it’s full HD video with cloud storage, so you can keep an eye on your home from anywhere. It works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can connect it to your already smart home. You can also connect it to their doorbell cam, RemoBell S and their Indoor Chime so you don’t need to have your phone handy in order to get alerts from any Remo+ products. Find out more at RemoPlus.co and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Tapplock Lite
How many times have you lost the key to your bike lock, your gate latch, your gym locker, etc? I have more times than I care to admit, which is especially embarrassing because I have a whole key ring full of mini padlock keys that I carry around that I have no idea where they go to. Never again with the new Tapplock that uses your fingerprint to unlock. I know, I know, it’s so James Bond using your fingerprint to unlock your stash, but in this case it couldn’t be more family-friendly. Set up everyone’s fingerprints and everyone will have access whenever, without having to fumble for a key or fear losing the only copy for the whole family. This sate-of-the-art capacitive fingerprint sensor allows unlocking in under 0.8 seconds and has an adaptive algorithm which means the lock becomes faster and more accurate with each access. Store up to 100 different fingerprints per lock and manage users via the Tapplock app. Find out more at Tapplock.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Sleep Solutions at CES
Philips SmartSleep Deep Sleep Headband and Wake-up Light
Who out there gets enough sleep? I’m guessing no one is raising their hand, right? That’s because as parents, we’re notoriously low on sleep. Philips has solutions that can help us poor parents and ease us into sleep, help us stay asleep longer, and help us wake feeling refreshed and ready for whatever the day throws at us. The new and improved SmartSleep Deep Sleep Headband is clinically proven to enhance deep sleep for those that don’t get enough shut-eye, and the new design addresses some issues that users had with the last model – like the band covering your ears while you sleep. A whopping 70% of users report being less tired after just two weeks of use, which are amazing stats that could make any sleep deprived parent excited. Pair that Deep Sleep Headband with the SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-up Light and you have everything you need for the perfect night’s sleep. The Sleep and Wake-up Light is clinically proven to relax users to sleep and improve their general well-being after waking. It has an integrated mobile app for a more personalized experience, and has amazing reviews from users all over the world. Find out more at the Philips website and follow Philips on Facebook and Twitter.
QuietOn Active Noise Cancelling Earplugs
Having trouble falling asleep because of noise? You need QuietOn, the world’s smallest active noise cancelling earplugs. These earplugs may be tiny, but they cancel out sounds like snoring or noises through the walls, and allows you to sleep without interruption. They also have a hearing mode that allows you to communicate with others while still blocking other noises. They are small, light, and comfortable, and they have a 20-hour battery life so you can take them on your round-the-world trip with you to actually sleep on the plane. Find out more at QuietOn.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
On The Go Tech at CES
Altec-Lansing Bone Conduction Headphones
As someone who cannot wear anything in-ear at all, I have been eyeing bone conduction headphones for years to replace my over-ear models. I am definitely going to wait now that I have heard about Altec-Lansing’s Bone Conduction headphones that will be out hopefully in Q2 of this year. Unfamiliar with bone conduction headphones? Basically, bone conduction is the conduction of sound to the inner ear through the bones of the skull. Bone Conduction has many benefits, including leaving your ears free to hear your surroundings {which is extremely important for safety reasons}, they have no electromagnetic waves {EMWs}, and they offer high sound clarity in noisy environments, as well as potentially protecting hearing even with extended use over other traditional headphones or earbuds. And, for me, it’s the only way I can comfortably listen to music on the go. Find out more about Altec-Lansing products and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Minelab GO-FIND Metal Detectors
When we bought our first metal detector as a family, we were so incredibly excited. Even after the first few dozen “treasures” we dug up were really only junk cans, nails, and screws, we still persisted. But, now we’re a few years in and all we have ever really found were items we were specifically looking for – like lost keys, rings, and other small items. But the amount of junk we’ve dug up has filled garbage cans. With the new GO-FIND from Minelab you can use the “Treasure View” screen to drastically up your odds of not digging up ONLY trash. It’s also super lightweight, portable, and just plain cool looking. Find out more at minelab.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Pelican 5050R FLashlight
Whenever I get a new flashlight, I immediately test it the same way everyone probably does – I aim it at the farthest thing I can see and see if it’s illuminated well enough. Turns out, there’s more to flashlights than just distance. Of course, the Pelican 5050R excels at distance with its focused beam of high-powered light, but it also offers a flood position to illuminate a larger work area, 4 different modes, charging via Micro USB port, and even offers extra power for your small devices in a pinch. Find out more at Pelican.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Reliefband Premier
I bet you’ve heard of motion sickness bands before, but I guarantee they weren’t as cool as Reliefband Premier. As someone who now suffers from vertigo and motion sickness after being diagnosed with a rare inner-ear infection a few year ago, I’ve searched for help in some strange places. I’m super excited to have found a drug-free, pain-free solution to my discomfort in the new Reliefband Premier. This new sleek-looking band is the only non-invasive, class II neuromodulation device that is cleared by the FDA for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy, and post-operative nausea. And, even better? It’s now cleared to prevent and relieve nausea and vomiting associated with physician-diagnosed migraines, anxiety, and even hangovers. This is all without drugs, won’t leave you drowsy, and it’s clinically proven to relieve nausea and vomiting. How cool is that? Find out more at Reliefband.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Litra portable & professional lights anywhere
If you’re a photographer, you definitely need to know about Litra. Heck, even if you aren’t a photographer but you throw events, you need to know about Litra. I’ve spent years of my life hauling around lights for photoshoots, special events, and more, and I’m excited to ditch all of the old, corded heat boxes for sleek and powerful Litra products this year. Imagine carrying around super lightweight and tiny little lights that are the merely 1.5 inch x 1.5 inch and can fit inside your pocket. This mini light, the LitraTorch 2.0 can illuminate large areas for parties, photoshoots, and even photobooths beautifully with 800 lumens of daylight temperature light – all without making your subjects and guests sweat in the heat of the lights. With Litra, it’s possible, and it will have everyone amazed that so much output is coming from the teeniest of sources. LitraTorch is the world’s most powerful and portable pocket sized light with an ultra wide beam angle. And, did I mention it’s also waterproof, can be handheld, and can mount to numerous different stands, mounts, magnets, and more? I suggest starting with a Basic Creator Bundle that has the LitraTorch 2.0, the ball shoe mount, and a pack of filters in a handy carrying case. From there you can add lights as you need them until you complete your Litra studio setup. Find out more at Litra.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Luxe
Are you constantly looking for storage that works across your USB Type-C and Type-A devices? I know I’m always out of space on everything and I’ve been known to do the “I’ll email this to there and then download it there” dance in order to get important files and photos off devices. Never again with the super sleek and sexy all-metal SanDisk Ultra® Dual Drive Luxe that comes in sizes all the way up to 1TB. We got to play with these at CES this year and I was absolutely blown away by its super tiny size and weight. I mean, I remember when 1TB storage was unheard of, and then when it was a million+ dollars, and then even last year when it was the size of a book. Now, it’s the size of a small flash drive, but still really big on features like super fast transfer rates, swivel cover for throwing into your laptop bag, and even easy to slip onto a keyring for easy access. Now you can take even more photos and access them across all your devices just by plugging in the drive, and you can even automatically back up your latest photos, videos, music, documents and contacts with the SanDisk Memory zone app. Rest assured that even if you ever lose your smartphone, you’ve got the memories that matter most. Find out more at shop.westerndigital.com to see even more options and sizes. Be sure and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
About CES
For those of you who aren’t involved in all things tech, you are probably wondering what on Earth CES is. Well, CES is the largest consumer electronics show in the world, and it is put on each year by CTA. It takes place in Las Vegas in multiple different convention centers and halls, spreading out to the parking lots and into multiple hotel conference rooms with more than 3,900 exhibitors.
But, just so we’re clear – we’re not talking a typical trade show. I go to plenty of those with their cubicle booths and tables set up with pictures to look at and some free hard candies. CES is on a truly massive scale, just like everything in Vegas. Some of the “booths” look like they took years to construct, and literally nothing just has a booth and some flyers. Tech companies go all out for CES, and the result is both amazing and awesome… and also crazy intimidating.
Follow along on the rest of our CES coverage as we discuss the best tech for families and kids that came out during the 2020 show. We saw tons of products and picked the best of the best of CES and tech in 2020 that every kid and family will want this year!
I’m so jealous, I’ve always wanted to do CES. This year looks like it was a blast!