To understand the latest international developments in R&D of key technologies and grasp trends in product applications, STPI teams joined the CES 2024 to explore the integration of consumer electronics technology with modern lifestyles. Through participation in consumer electronics exhibitions and seminars, STPI seeks to showcase application scenarios, gather insights into key technological advancements in the industry, and explore potential emerging areas. By engaging in exhibition exchanges, the teams hoped to gather valuable experiences to assist in the strategic planning of forward-looking technology and industrial layouts domestically. Furthermore, STPI aims to evaluate the feasibility of developing national core technologies for future reference.
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has been continuously collecting consumer data for decades to conduct research, hoping to identify trends shaping technologies. According to their observations, Generation Z consumers (aged 11 to 26) in the United States currently account for one-quarter of the domestic technology consumer population. It is projected that by 2024, they will dominate the demand for technology products. Additionally, it's worth noting that 90% of Generation Z consumers worldwide come from emerging markets.
(Above) Before the opening of CES 2024, the CTA shared insights on industry trends, significant upcoming events, and disruptive innovations expected in 2024.
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere" is the theme of the 2024 CES exhibition, showcasing the ubiquitous application of AI technology. However, the majority of Taiwanese people's current understanding of artificial intelligence primarily revolves around generative AI. Looking ahead, the AI ecosystem will expand to include chip sensors, data facilities, digital platforms, digital mapping, robotics, and more. At the exhibition, attendees can see AI-driven innovations ranging from smart refrigerators, innovative meat grills, and AI-powered pet care to baby cry translators, smart mirrors, anti-snoring pillows, as well as expanded applications from PCs to automobiles, and beyond.
However, there are still concerns about AI, including privacy, misinformation, security, and unemployment. Three-quarters of US citizens believe that the federal government should monitor the development of AI. The market also values sustainable technology, with last year's global investment in hydrogen and nuclear fusion technology research totaling 326 billion USD, and the use of graphene in next-generation batteries can reduce the global carbon footprint by a quarter. With the global trends of aging populations and gender equality, inclusive technology will mainly focus on mobility and health consumer products, including electric vehicles (EVs), personal medical tools, and AI health platforms.
CES 2024 also focuses on emerging energy sources, with ongoing attention to hydrogen technology and its applications. Many heavy industries or energy companies are introducing complete solutions for hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and end-use applications. Hydrogen applications mainly focus on fuel cells and vehicles, with car manufacturers such as BOSCH, Hyundai, and Honda announcing the launch of next-generation hydrogen-powered vehicles. In addition, to support the development of sustainable energy, stationary and mobile energy storage devices are becoming essential components of energy systems. The integration of AI-based smart energy management systems is also a major direction for industry investment. For example, NHΩA TCC showcased its independently developed UHPC (Ultra-High Performance Concrete) energy storage cabinet and new grid infrastructure at the exhibition.
In addition, the Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) of the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) helps Taiwan-based tech startups to participate in international marketing activities through various connections in order to establish the brand and reputation of Taiwan's startups. At the same time, resources from various ministries, such as the Ministry of Digital Affairs, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and the National Development Council, were integrated to support the event. Collaboration with local governments, such as the Taipei City Government, and various local startup ecosystems, allowed for successful joint exhibitions. Through marketing and networking during the CES, resources were consolidated to amplify the effectiveness of participation.
(Above) The Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) of National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) led Taiwan-based tech startups to participate in the CES 2024 for the seventh consecutive year. Director-General Wayne Wang of the Hsinchu Science Park in NSTC served as the team head, leading 96 startups to showcase Taiwan's innovative technology at CES 2024.