A fresh year brings a wave of exciting new gadgets, and CES 2025 delivered in spades! While many cutting-edge products unveiled at the show won't be available until later in the year, a plethora of devices are ready for purchase or pre-order right now. Let's dive into the most captivating tech hitting the market:
Smartphones: Power and Performance Redefined
OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R: OnePlus' latest flagship, the OnePlus 13, and its more affordable sibling, the OnePlus 13R (available for pre-order now, on sale January 14th), aren't revolutionary leaps forward, but they offer solid improvements. Both boast integrated AI features, including an AI Editor in the Photos app and a suite of tools for summarizing and reading text aloud. A significant advantage is the promised four Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates, ensuring long-term software support. However, the lack of Qi2 support on the 13R and wireless charging limited to the OnePlus 13 is a notable drawback. A comprehensive review of both devices will be available later this week.
Asus ROG Phone 9 Series: Announced in November and now available for purchase, the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro are powerhouses for mobile gaming. Both feature a stunning 6.78-inch, 2K AMOLED screen with a 165-Hz LTPO refresh rate, a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 50-megapixel rear camera. Wireless charging is a welcome addition. The ROG Phone 9 Pro distinguishes itself with 24GB of RAM (compared to the 9's 16GB), 1TB of storage, and the inclusion of the AeroActive Cooler X Pro – a fan attachment for enhanced CPU cooling. The ROG Phone 9 is currently on sale for $900 (a $100 discount).
Tools and Accessories: Enhancing Your Everyday Life
iFixit Pro Tech Go Toolkit: Building on the success of its Pro Tech toolkit, iFixit introduced the more portable Pro Tech Go. Based on extensive customer feedback, this toolkit contains only the most frequently used tools, making it ideal for on-the-go repairs. It includes a 32-bit driver kit, two tweezers, two spudgers, and essential opening tools, all at a more affordable price point.
iFixit FixHub Power Series Portable Soldering Station: iFixit also updated its FixHub Power Series Portable Soldering Station ($250), its first soldering iron featuring USB-C connectivity, a web interface for control, and a fully repairable design. Available for pre-order, it's slated to ship in April, offering a convenient and sustainable soldering solution for DIY enthusiasts.
Mobile Protection: Style Meets Substance
Otterbox Western Noir Collection: Inspired by the Wild West aesthetic and equestrian trends, Otterbox's new Western Noir Collection offers stylish phone cases. Available in four designs (Buckaroo, Bronco, Holstein, and Midnight Ride), these cases provide robust protection for iPhone 13 through iPhone 16, catering to users who appreciate a blend of style and durability.
Wireless Charging: Streamlined Convenience
Nimble 3-in-1 Wireless Charger: For iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods users, Nimble's 3-in-1 wireless charger is a must-have. Its adjustable hinge allows for charging gadgets upright or in standby mode, and it includes a dedicated module for the Apple Watch. When not in use, it folds into a compact, travel-friendly design. It also includes a 1.5-mm USB-C to USB-C cable and supports the Qi2 wireless charging standard.
Audio: Immersive Sound Experiences
Soundcore AeroClip Earbuds: The popularity of open-ear earbuds continues to grow, and Soundcore's AeroClip earbuds are a strong contender. More refined and flexible than previous models like the C30i (though also more expensive), the AeroClips boast a bowed design, compact case, and lightweight, comfortable fit thanks to a thin titanium wire with a matte coating. Initial impressions suggest clear audio and responsive touch controls. Available for pre-order, they are expected to ship on March 13th.
Shokz OpenFit 2nd Generation: Addressing shortcomings of the previous generation (a less-than-secure fit and unreliable buttons), the Shokz OpenFit 2nd Generation features a flexible ear hook for a secure fit and an integrated alloy that molds to the ear's contours. Physical buttons provide more precise control. Whether these improvements make it a significant upgrade remains to be seen.
Innovative Charging Solutions: Speed and Simplicity
Swippit Hub: This unique charging device, shaped like a toaster, houses 3,500-mAh batteries that remain charged. To charge a phone, simply place it in the hub for a few seconds until the light turns green. However, it requires the Swippit Link phone case (available for iPhone 14, 15, and 16 at launch; Samsung Galaxy S23 and S24 cases to follow). A companion app provides battery status for both the Hub and Link cases. Available for pre-order, it’s currently enjoying a $100 CES discount until January 17th. This system is designed as a whole-family charging solution.
Smart Glasses: Seamless Integration of Technology
Halliday Smart Glasses: Smart glasses are trending, and Halliday's offering aims to appeal to the hesitant. The glasses project a small digital screen into the user's peripheral vision (upper-right corner), displaying messages, media controls, and map directions. A built-in AI system summarizes information and learns daily routines. A smart ring provides an alternative to gesture control. Available for reservation with a $10 deposit, orders can be finalized later this month, with shipping in late March.
Smart Sunglasses: Adaptive Technology
Chamelo Shield Sunglasses: Chamelo's (formerly Ampere) electrochromic lenses transition from dark to light via manual slide or automatic tint mode, adjusting to surrounding light conditions – even within a car, a challenge for conventional photochromic lenses. The Shield sunglasses are available for purchase, currently with a $50 discount. Shipping begins January 10th, with more styles arriving later in the week.
Security Cameras: Enhanced Surveillance
Reolink Duo 3 WiFi Security Camera: This dual-lens 4K camera provides a 180-degree field of view, allowing for detailed zooming. Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) ensures a reliable connection, and the Motion Track feature condenses 15-second videos into single time-lapse images for easier review.
Smart Shades: Affordable Home Automation
Lutron Caseta Smart Shades: Lutron's smart shades now offer a more affordable entry point, starting at $399 for shades up to 48 inches wide and 80 inches high (larger sizes available at a higher price). While they use fewer D batteries (resulting in a two-year lifespan for the standard model, four to five years for the higher-end version), and lack a plug-in option, they still provide convenient smart home control. Options include roller or honeycomb shades, white or gray colors, and light-filtering or blackout fabric. Available for purchase, they ship next month.
Baby Tech: Smart Solutions for Modern Parenting
Elvie Rise Bassinet: Elvie expands its product line with the Elvie Rise, a smart bassinet combining bouncer and bassinet functionality. Controlled via a companion app, users can start, stop, and adjust the bounce, automatically record usage time, track sleep patterns, and gain insights into baby's sleep development. Available for pre-order, shipping starts in March.
Mesh WiFi Systems: Enhanced Connectivity
Orbi 870 Series: This tri-band Wi-Fi 7 mesh system boasts coverage up to 9,000 square feet. The main router includes a 10-Gbps Ethernet WAN port, while both the router and satellites have four 2.5-Gbps Ethernet LAN ports each. While the more affordable 770 Series remains a strong recommendation, the 870 series offers significant advantages for users with multi-gig internet and large properties.
Augmented Reality Computing: Immersive Workspaces
Sightful Spacetop AR Laptop: Initially launched in 2023, the Sightful Spacetop AR laptop has evolved into a combination of AR glasses and a software subscription. The bundle includes customized AR glasses from XREAL compatible with PCs featuring Intel Core Ultra 7/9 processors with Meteor Lake architecture or newer. The software provides a virtual 100-inch screen for apps and windows. Included are a USB-C cable, adjustable nose pads, carrying case, and cleaning cloth. Shipping starts next month.
Monitor Stands and Docks: Enhanced Desk Organization
Razer Stand Chroma: This versatile stand serves as a monitor stand and USB hub, offering two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, a USB-C input, an HDMI port, and customizable Chroma RGB lighting. It includes a storage slot for laptops or other items.
Razer Handheld Dock Chroma: Designed for handheld gaming consoles or tablets, this dock features six ports, 100-watt pass-through charging, and an adjustable hinge. Available for pre-order at $80.
Robot Vacuums: Obstacle-Conquering Cleaning
Dreame X50 Robot Vacuum: This robot vacuum overcomes thresholds and staircases using retractable legs, capable of clearing obstacles up to 6 centimeters high. Other features include a detangling duo brush, 20,000 Pascal suction power, a 360-degree scanning sensor, voice command support, and mopping functionality. Available for pre-order.
Headphones: Superior Audio Quality
Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ100: Building on the success of the EAH-AZ80, the EAH-AZ100 boasts a smaller, lighter, and more comfortable design. It offers adaptive noise cancellation, a Voice Focus AI feature for improved call clarity, and a new Magnetic Fluid Driver for enhanced audio quality.
Gaming Chairs: Comfort and Affordability
Iskur V2 X Gaming Chair: A more affordable alternative to the Iskur V2, the Iskur V2 X sacrifices some features (non-adjustable lumbar support, fabric-only option), but at less than half the price, it presents a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers.
All-in-One Desktops: Powerful and Versatile
HP All-in-One Desktop: Available in 27-inch and 32-inch models (the latter only in 4K), users can choose between 1080p or 4K resolution and touchscreen or non-touchscreen options. Features include a hideable 5-megapixel webcam, built-in dual speakers, and numerous ports. Processor choices include Intel Core Ultra 5 226V or Intel Core Ultra 7 (up to 258V), and AI-powered features like Recall, Windows Studio Effects, and Cocreate.
Satellite Communicators: Reliable Connectivity in Remote Areas
HMD OffGrid: This compact satellite communicator provides 24/7 satellite connectivity for Android and iPhone via HMD's companion app, utilizing the L-band satellite radio spectrum. It boasts three days of battery life and a MIL-STD-810H durability rating. Subscription tiers offer up to 350 messages ($80/year) or unlimited messaging ($140/year).
Desktop PCs: Performance and Versatility
HP OmniDesk Series: This series offers three options: the standard OmniDesk, OmniDesk AI, and OmniDesk Slim. The standard version uses Intel Core (i3, i5, i7) or AMD Ryzen (Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7) processors; the OmniDesk AI features Intel Core Ultra processors; and the OmniDesk Slim offers Intel 300, Core i3, i5, or i7 options. All include wireless keyboards and mice. Available for pre-order, shipping begins in February.
Electric Bikes: Power and Range
Segway Xyber and Xafari Electric Bikes: Segway introduced two new e-bikes: the high-end Xyber (up to 112 miles range, 20 mph speed, 175 Nm peak torque, 6,000 watts peak power, 12 power assist levels, three throttle modes) and the more affordable Xafari (up to 80 miles range, 80 Nm torque, $2,300). Currently available for pre-order.
Smartwatches: Style and Functionality
Amazfit Active 2 Smartwatch: Featuring a more fashionable design than previous models, the Amazfit Active 2 sports a round stainless steel case, bright AMOLED display with sapphire glass, and a leather strap. Features include offline maps, improved sleep tracking, Strength Training mode, and auto-detection of up to 35 exercise types.
Glucose Monitors: Convenient Health Tracking
Dexcom Stelo Glucose Sensor: This sensor is the first commercially available glucose monitor without a prescription (for non-insulin users). Attached to the upper arm, it continuously tracks glucose levels, providing insights into the impact of food, sleep, and exercise. The waterproof sensor lasts up to 15 days. It comes with two sensors, with a monthly subscription option.
Abbott Lingo Glucose Monitor: Another glucose monitor option, the Abbott Lingo, is applied to the upper arm and connects to an iPhone for glucose level monitoring (detecting spikes). Each sensor lasts two weeks. Various purchasing options are available.
Smart Eyewear: AI Integration
Solos Smart Glasses: These glasses integrate OpenAI's ChatGPT, allowing users to ask questions and have text read aloud. Built-in speakers enable music playback, podcast listening, and call taking. The modular design (SmartHinge with USB-C connector) allows for interchangeable frames and lenses, enabling customization to suit different styles and needs.
Rugged Smartwatches: Durability and Style
Garmin Instinct 3 Series: This series of smartwatches features AMOLED screens, built-in flashlights, scratch-resistant displays, and metal-reinforced bezels. The Instinct 3, Instinct 3 Solar (solar charging), and Instinct E (more affordable at $300) options will be available starting January 10th. Pre-orders for the Instinct 3 and Instinct 3 Solar (45-mm and 50-mm sizes) are available through REI.
Mobile Gaming Accessories: Enhanced Performance
Mobile Gaming Cooler Charger: This accessory cools and charges phones during mobile gaming, preserving battery health.
Children's Wellness: Calming and Soothing
Moonbuddy: This screen-free, app-free device guides children through breathing exercises to promote self-soothing. Available in bear and bird designs, with easily interchangeable and cleanable sleeves.
Mechanical Keyboards: Precision and Performance
Keychron Q6 HE and Lemokey P1 HE Keyboards: Keychron introduced two mechanical keyboards with Hall Effect (HE) switches, double-shot PBT keycaps, and RGB backlighting. The full-size Q6 HE includes a number pad, while the more compact 75 percent Lemokey P1 HE is more affordable ($169). Both feature a 4,000-mAh battery, USB-C connectivity, and Bluetooth 5.2.
This comprehensive overview of CES 2025's most compelling new gadgets showcases a range of innovations, from smartphones and wearables to smart home devices and innovative accessories. This is just a glimpse of the exciting technological advancements shaping our future.