CES 2018: What innovations to expect from Samsung Creative-Lab?
What's the story
The countdown to the biggest consumer electronics/technology show, the CES 2018 from 7-12 January, in Las Vegas has already begun. Samsung has announced that it would be unveiling three new innovative projects, developed under its C-Lab (Creative Lab) start-up incubator program. From a portable directional "private" speaker to a breathing device to smart "visual aid" glasses for the visually-challenged, here's what to expect!
Sound-Ray Speakers
S-Ray directional speaker: Listen to music, without disturbing others
Samsung C-Lab's S-Ray (Sound-Ray) is a portable directional speaker. What makes S-Ray different from other directional speakers is its smaller size and lighter weight. With S-Ray, users can listen to their own devices without causing disturbance to others. Samsung says S-Ray helps users in avoiding ear pain caused by using earphones. Three S-Ray variants would be launched at CES: Mini, Neckband, and Handy.
GoBreath
GoBreath: A breathing recovery device for patients
Samsung is unveiling "GoBreath", a breathing/recovery device for people with lung damage and post-operative pulmonary complications. Deep breathing, with inspirometer, helps patients recover faster. But those who undergo surgery due to lung pain find it difficult. So, a doctor at Samsung Medical Center developed GoBreath, comprising a portable device and mobile app, to help patients by teaching techniques like inspiration, coughing, deep breathing.
Relumino glasses
Relúmĭno glasses headset for people with vision challenges
Samsung is also showcasing Relúmĭno smart visual aid eyeglasses for those with vision challenges. The glasses help them see clearer images more comfortably. The glasses come with an app, working in conjunction with a smartphone, using its processor and battery. The Relúmĭno glasses' camera projects videos that are processed by the smartphone and shown on the display, helping the user see things better.
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Will continuously introduce innovative projects through C-Lab: Jaiil Lee
Samsung's Vice-President and Head of the Creativity & Innovation Center, Jaiil Lee, stated: "Since launching five years ago, our C-Lab program has gained exciting momentum across Samsung, helping foster an innovation culture, and providing avenue for our creative, talented employees to pursue innovative new projects."
Samsung Devices
What else is Samsung expected to unveil?
Apart from the three C-Lab projects, Samsung is expected to unveil its new mid-range Galaxy A8/A8+ smartphones and its first Thunderbolt 3 QLED curved monitor at CES 2018. Reports claim new Samsung TVs and a smart home speaker would make an appearance. Many expect the Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ to make a cameo, too, while others say the foldable Galaxy X would be showcased.
AI-powered ThinQ TVs
What about Samsung's rival, LG?
LG Electronics is showcasing its innovative ThinQ OLED and Super UHD TVs at CES 2018. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI), ThinQ interacts with users with Google Assistant Support. Customers can give voice commands by speaking into the remote control. ThinQ also works as a smart home device to control household gadgets like robotic vacuum cleaners, smart lights, intelligent speakers, air conditioners, etc. via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi.