by Jamil Santos, Negosentro.com |
It’s no surprise to learn that Apple wasn’t listed as one of the exhibitors at this year’s Consumer Electronic Show (CES). Not one to reveal their products at these kinds of events, Apple typically reserves the right to unveil the latest iPhone and MacBook at their own keynotes. That’s not to say their presence isn’t felt at each CES. In the past, whole wings of the convention center have been devoted to iProducts developed by other companies, making the tech giant an indirect yet major player at the annual event.
This year, things seemed to have changed a little for the tech giant. While Apple was at the CES 2017 by proxy, the usual buzz surrounding their typical add-on booths was lacking.The iProducts on display failed to bring the innovation that we see from these booths. As a result, attendees were looking elsewhere to find original products.
They turned to Amazon in droves. With last November’s update to Amazon Echo, the most innovative companies were clamouring to create products compatible with its AI, Alexa. LG put Alexa into their latest refrigerator and Hub. Bixi integrated Alexa into their control puck, which lets you control smart home devices without your Android or iPhone. Even Ford placed the AI into the newest Fusions and F-150s.And the list truly goes on and on.
Meanwhile, Apple failed to make the same impact at this year’s CES. Apple’s HomeKit didn’t receive the same enthusiastic reception as the Echo. Those products building off of the HomeKit were, quite frankly, boring. Thermostats, smoke detectors, motion sensors, and a power bar were amongst the biggest accessories put on display. In a surprising twist, Apple lost the popularity contest and was the last kid picked in gym class.
We don’t feel bad for Apple, despite this year’s disappointing show at the convention. 2017 marks the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, and if the recent iPhone 8 leaks are anything to go by, the newest generation will be a fitting release for the occasion. There’s also some chatter surrounding another Apple Watch; a new iPad Air, mini, and Pro; and updates to the MacBook Pro, Pro Retina, and Air.
Whether or not these rumored updates are released in 2017 remains to be seen. We’re pretty confident the iPhone 8 will arrive in time for its 10th anniversary, but everything else is in the air until it actually happens. Just in case these rumors turn out to be merely stories, you can always update the look of your current MacBook with the latest MacBook pro skins. These MacBook skins wrap around a beat-up laptop in need of replacement and camouflages its battle scars until these releases become a reality.
Because, let’s face it, the average person isn’t investing in the Apple HomeKit and its many home security accessories. The majority of us are using our iPads and MacBooks as casual users. Regardless, it’s always fun to see what the future holds by checking in with the annual CES and seeing the tech of the future.
