Consumer Tech

Common software issues with foldable phones include problems with app size and layout, awareness of the device's state (folded or unfolded), and leveraging the unique advantages of foldable screens. Many apps are not yet optimized for these devices, leading to compatibility issues and suboptimal performance.

Developers address the challenges of creating apps for foldable phones by ensuring screen continuity and supporting multi-resume features. This involves designing apps that seamlessly transition between folded and unfolded states, maintaining usability across different screen sizes, and allowing multiple apps to resume functioning without freezing.

Google Assistant is set to retire by 2025, with Gemini taking over. However, Gemini has faced issues with data accuracy, which could affect the reliability of smart home devices. Google is working to improve Gemini's performance for a seamless smart home experience.

The Matter standard is enhancing the smart home industry by providing seamless compatibility among devices from different manufacturers. This means users can integrate devices like Google Nest and Apple HomeKit more easily, simplifying the setup process and making smart home technology more accessible.

Seasonal sales often feature discounts on a wide range of tech products, including smartphones, laptops, smartwatches, cameras, and home appliances. For example, Samsung offers significant discounts on TVs and appliances, while Amazon provides deals on laptops and smart devices[1][2][4].

To maximize savings, consumers can look for bundle deals, trade-in offers, and special discounts for specific groups like students or employees. Additionally, comparing prices across different retailers and checking for additional promotions can help increase overall savings[1][3].

No, smart home devices are not exclusively for the wealthy. Many affordable options are available, such as smart plugs and LED bulbs, which can be purchased at a low cost and offer significant long-term savings through energy efficiency[1][2][3].

No, most smart home devices are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. They often feature intuitive apps and voice controls, making them accessible to anyone, regardless of technical expertise[1][3][5].

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has temporarily exempted smartphones, computers, flat panel TV displays, memory chips, semiconductor-based storage devices, and other electronics from Trump's reciprocal tariffs on Chinese imports. However, these products remain subject to a separate 20% tariff related to fentanyl and may face future semiconductor tariffs (ABC News, April 14, 2025; CBS News, April 14, 2025; Axios, April 13, 2025)[1][2][4].

The temporary exemptions provide relief for tech companies like Apple, which rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing. However, the exemptions are temporary, and future semiconductor tariffs could still impact these companies. Consumers may face price increases if tariffs are reimposed or if companies decide to pass on costs. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs has already led to market volatility and business uncertainty (Politico, April 15, 2025; PYMNTS, April 14, 2025)[3][5].

Smart dishwashers offer several benefits, including enhanced cleaning performance, energy and water efficiency, remote monitoring and control, and customizable wash cycles. They also provide features like notifications for cycle completion and maintenance alerts, making them more convenient and sustainable than traditional models[1][2][3].

Smart dishwashers can provide manufacturers with data on usage patterns, which can be used for personalized marketing and predictive maintenance. This data helps in tailoring marketing strategies and improving customer service by anticipating maintenance needs, thereby enhancing customer experience and fostering brand loyalty[2].

The 'Netflix model' refers to a subscription-based service that allows consumers to access and use home appliances for a fixed monthly fee, similar to how Netflix provides streaming services. This model enables customers to enjoy the latest technology without the upfront costs of purchasing appliances outright, while also offering maintenance and support as part of the subscription.

LG and Samsung's interoperability initiatives allow their appliances to be controlled through each other's apps, creating a seamless smart home experience. This means that users can manage appliances from both brands using a single interface, improving convenience and integration in smart home setups.

In 2025, consumer electronics trends include hybrid shopping experiences, AI integration for personalized experiences, and premiumization focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency. Additionally, there is a growing demand for AI-enhanced PCs and larger TVs, which are expected to drive consumer tech spending growth (Circana, 2025; Pricespider, 2025)[1][2].

To maximize savings on electronics in 2025, consider buying during major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day. Additionally, strategic timing around new model releases can offer significant discounts on previous generation devices (Savingsgrove, 2025)[4].

IoT enhances sustainability by optimizing resource use, minimizing waste, and reducing environmental footprints. It achieves this through smart grid integration, predictive maintenance, and real-time monitoring of energy consumption, which helps industries like manufacturing and retail optimize their operations and reduce emissions.

IoT acts as a seamless digital layer that enhances existing infrastructure without requiring costly replacements. It integrates with old and new systems, enabling real-time data collection and automated decision-making, which improves operational efficiency and scalability across various industries.

Digital fatigue refers to the mental exhaustion caused by excessive engagement with digital tools. Generative AI can help by streamlining information search, making digital experiences more interactive and personalized, thus reducing the strain of constant screen engagement[2][1].

AI fatigue is the feeling of mental exhaustion and overwhelm due to continuous exposure to AI technologies. It arises from the complexity of AI systems, constant change, ethical concerns, and job displacement fears. Generative AI, while contributing to AI fatigue, also offers solutions by automating tasks and enhancing user experiences[3][5].

Enshittification refers to the process by which tech companies initially offer high-quality services to attract users but gradually degrade these services to maximize profits, often at the expense of user satisfaction. This concept highlights the tension between providing value to users and prioritizing business interests (Doctorow, 2022; Skinner, 2024)[1][2].

To avoid enshittification, tech companies can focus on maintaining user-centric services, ensuring interoperability, and promoting competition. Additionally, regulatory oversight and user empowerment through self-help tools can help prevent the degradation of services (Doctorow, 2022; Skinner, 2024)[1][2].

The addition of cameras to future Apple Watches is intended to support AI features, particularly Visual Intelligence, which allows users to interact with their environment by identifying objects and providing relevant information.

The standard Apple Watch Series is expected to have a camera embedded within the display, similar to the iPhone's front-facing lens. In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra will likely have its camera placed on the side near the crown and buttons, leveraging the Ultra's thicker design for easier object scanning.

The new Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses feature a 12MP ultrawide camera, improved AI capabilities for tasks like messaging and scanning, and enhanced connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. They also offer real-time translation and smart memory features, making them more versatile and user-friendly.

The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses contribute to accessibility through features like real-time assistance and partnerships with apps such as Be My Eyes. This allows volunteers to assist visually impaired users by viewing their surroundings and providing real-time feedback.

Chinese companies showcased a variety of innovative products at CES 2025, including advanced electronic display technologies like Mini-LED TVs, AI-driven devices, and smart hardware. Companies such as Hisense and TCL highlighted their technological advancements in display technology, while others showcased AI-integrated products like smart electric bikes and vending machines[2][5].

The presence of Chinese companies at CES 2025 was highly significant, with over 1,000 companies participating, including major brands like Lenovo, TCL, Hisense, and BOE. This large-scale participation underscored China's growing influence in the global tech industry[3].

Wrap phones demonstrate advancements in flexible display technology, enabling durable, adaptable form factors for future wearables and foldable devices. Transparent laptops, while experimental, showcase potential for augmented reality integration and interactive display innovations in professional or educational settings.

The robot dog exemplifies China's focus on combining AI with IoT and robotics, aligning with MWC 2024's emphasis on AI-driven solutions for smart cities, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. This mirrors China's leadership in developing enterprise AI models and 5G-enabled IoT ecosystems.