Technology

Even beds and toothbrushes are getting smarter now . . .

Speaking of smart products, the humble bed has had a bit of a makeover too. The Sleep Number will not only let you control both sides of the bed separately – for example, to raise the head of the bed slightly if you happen to have a bed partner who snores – but it will also monitor the quality and duration of your sleep. Once it has a good idea of your sleep patterns, it will then make a few recommendations to let you get the best night’s sleep possible. It even has voice commands – so you can activate that Partner Snore feature – a built-in massage function, and lighting underneath so that you can find your way in the dark if you need to.

Ciara O'Brien's face
Ciara O'Brien
Thu Jan 9 2014 - 01:00

Every year there are products that capture the imagination of the CES-going public.

Last year, the Hapi Fork was the talk of the conference, a device that would allow users to track their eating habits and get alerts if they were eating too quickly, a revelation that could lead to weight-loss in the long run.

But what products are making waves this year? In among the robots, fitness bands and high-definition TVs, there is plenty to discuss.

Image 1 of 6

At first glance, the Tao WellShell doesn’t look like much. But the portable device is actually a fitness coach, just in a different guise. The sensors on the device will measure pressure, so you can follow a number of exercises on an accompanying app that will use this to help you work on your strength. You can also use it to play games, tricking yourself into doing some of those isometric exercises without realising it.

Ciara O Brien