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LAS VEGAS — The Consumer Electronics Show of 2014 introduced the possibility of a new, luxurious world where everything is "smart."
We've compiled a list of a few of the latest technological developments that could make your life a little easier.
Smart Transport
Automobile makers showed off the future of cars at CES, with developments including Audi's Android tablet dashboard control and BMW's driverless car. Ford also displayed what may be the next step in the evolution of the electric car — a vehicle with solar panels built-in on top. The C-Max Energi is programmed to move back and forth a few inches throughout the day to track the sun to efficiently gather power.
Those without cars shouldn't feel left out — Schwinn introduced their bike GPS, called CycleNav, which features blinking lights to let you know when to turn left and right. A speaker also calls out directions. All you have to do is program your destination into an app on your phone before departure. CycleNav can be yours in the near future, with devices scheduled to hit stores in March for $59.99.
Smart Homes
Soon almost everything in your home may be controlled through your television, thanks to Samsung. Don't want to get off the couch to adjust your blinds? That's not a problem with their Smart TV. You don't even have to be home to communicate with your devices — LG allows you to text your robot vacuum cleaner and tell it to make the rounds or turn on your laundry machine while you are away with their Home Chat. Even asking your fridge what groceries you need to buy is possible with a text.
Smart Accessories
One of the gadgets getting the most buzz this year is the smart watch. The Kickstarter-launched Pebble Steel is a crowd favorite, giving consumers a stylish watch that can run apps like ESPN, Pandora and Yelp. If you own a Mercedes, you can also use the Pebble Steel to locate your car or check the level of your gas.
Health-conscious technology fans are also in luck — a new pair of socks from Heapsylon can track how you run, including the pattern of footfall and the length of your stride. The socks are supposed to ship in March.
Video contributors: Amy Iverson and Jay McFarland
