CES 2018 was set to be the biggest and best yet, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Automation was a prominent focus from industry leaders and start-up companies alike, with guests being treated to unique insights into what the future could hold.
Self-driving vehicles, Artificial Intelligence and smart home technology are set to dominate the market this year, but among thousands of displays, what did CES 2018 really offer in the way of accessibility?
From innovative braille watches, to increased commercial availability of wheelchair access vehicles, every industry has already turned its focus to accessible tech but what will the next year bring? Read on to find out.
Smart Homes For All
Recent years have seen an increasing volume of smart technology appearing in homes across the globe and while CES isn’t known for consumer-ready technology, the promise of inclusive technology wasn’t to be overlooked. These two offerings in particular were showcased this year:
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SofiHub
SofiHub is a smart home hub that uses artificial intelligence to improve the life of its user and provide information to family members. Designed for seniors and their families, SofiHub learns patterns of behaviour from the main user and can be set up to alert loved ones to inconsistencies or when something appears to be wrong.
This hub has been developed as a home assistant for the elderly and comes with ability to set up everyday reminders, form full reports to allow unique customisation. Its accompanying software, known as the HUB, allows for messages to be sent from family members to be played aloud when the user enters the room.
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Lili Smart
Lili Smart is a non-hub alternative to SofiHub. Comprised of a smart watch, a phone app, and activity sensors, Lili Smart is designed to allow caregivers to keep track of the person under their care, while they are away.
This is a no-internet solution to ensuring security, detecting falls, geo-locating, live chatting, monitoring and more. Lili Smart will soon be allowing users to try it for free with no obligation before subscribing to the service.
SignAll Is Making Sign Language Translation Possible
Understanding sign language could soon be easier than ever before. SignAll have developed technology that could translate ASL in the future, though it is unfortunately still in its infancy. Though it is still in development, the future could see sign language being turned into text, which could promote better accessibility at work, at home and in public.
It is currently a matter of waiting until the technology has been perfected before it is ready to be released on a consumer level.
Nissan’s Vision For Autonomous Vehicles
Talk of autonomous vehicles was rife at this year’s CES. However, it is Nissan’s approach that was stealing headlines. While Nissan aren’t designing the car specifically for accessibility purposes, it could still prove unerringly useful regardless.
Still in the development stage, the new vehicle could see a brain-machine interface that allows users to simply think about what they want the car to do, and it will do it. What’s more, this model promotes efficient safety features to ensure the safety of children, animals and adults alike outside of the car.
CES 2018 provided a wealth of new technologies across a variety of industries, and the accessibility industry certainly didn’t miss out. From smart home technology, to autonomous vehicles, the future is looking to be an exciting one for the accessibility market.
