Each January, CES stands out as the globe’s most important tech convention. This massive event showcases everything from gadgets and tech tools to cutting-edge concepts, spanning an area about the size of 43 football fields.

Nearly 150,000 attendees are expected this year in Las Vegas, with more than 4,500 exhibitors showcasing their products from around the globe.

The event officially kicks off on January 7, but I’ve been in town since the 4th, getting exclusive previews and hands-on experiences with some of the most talked-about innovations being revealed this week: flying cars? Absolutely. Robots that offer real assistance? You bet. AI “agents” to help with aging gracefully at home? Yes! I can’t wait to share what I discover with all of you.

This year, I’ve lined up exciting interviews with renowned CEOs and even a few celebrities. I’ll also be hunting for the quirkiest crowd-pleasers out there.

You can follow my coverage on YSL News this year, as I’ll be posting more on social media than ever, so check out my updates on various platforms including YSL News’s channels.

Here are some of the major trends I’ll be exploring this week:

📌 A-but-do-I-really-care-IAI is everywhere, but what does it truly mean for us? Last year’s most sought-after AI gadgets—the Rabbit R1 and Humane AI Pin—turned out to be two of the biggest disappointments I’ve encountered. This year, I’m hoping for more practical advancements.

The concept of “AI Agents” is making waves, suggesting that our devices could operate more autonomously, mimicking human thought processes. This sounds both exciting and a little unsettling, and I’m eager to delve into it. Also related…new sustainability tech.

📌 Age TechThis topic is particularly relevant to me, especially as I’m over 50 myself. My elderly parents, who are in their 80s, live with my husband and me for most of the year. I am keen to see how technology can innovate for this age group, whether by enhancing safety, providing companionship, or enriching their quality of life.

📌 Smart HomeEven my house doesn’t seem that intelligent when Apple devices fail to cooperate with Amazon or Google products. 2024 was expected to be the year that “Matter” achieved a seamless smart home experience, but things haven’t quite panned out as hoped. Here’s to hoping that CES 2025 brings forth more user-friendly tech for easier and more efficient home management.

📌 Parent TechFrom controlling screen time to safeguarding our children online, this area is in dire need of improvement. Encouraging our kids to engage with technology in a thoughtful and responsible manner, equipped with necessary guidelines across the internet and apps, should be straightforward. We need to create better boundaries around gadgets for the sake of our kids and ourselves.

📌 Wearables & Fitness TechAs an avid runner and fitness enthusiast, I’m particularly excited about the latest innovations in this category. I frequently use devices like the Peloton bike, Lululemon Mirror, and Hydrow rower, but the market has seen a lull in fresh offerings since their release. (I would love to try Tonal for a couple of months if I could!) In addition, I’m keeping an eye out for innovative recovery tools (hello massage chairs!), accurate data-driven wearables, and technology that can integrate wellness routines into our bedding.

📌Car-Tech

Cars remain our most significant everyday gadgets. What innovations are coming next? Expect to see solar-powered vehicles, advanced windshield displays, and I’ll be checking out two “flying cars.” These aren’t mere prototypes anymore; you can actually purchase one for a staggering price! One company has even suggested I take one for a flight. Should I give it a go? Imagine soaring through the skies in a “flying car” all on my own!