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Key Consumer IoT Themes at CES 2023: Gaming, Entertainment, Wearables, Smart Devices

After two years of virtual presence, the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was back in Las Vegas this month. Major consumer electronics and technology brands like Samsung, LG, Huawei and HTC participated in the event. The consumer IoT (CIoT) announcements at the event mainly revolved around gaming, high-quality display products, advanced audio processing technologies, smart security solutions, seamless connectivity (Matter), artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. We have covered below some of the major CIoT announcements at CES 2022:

Gaming monitors by Samsung and LG

World’s first dual UHD gaming monitor by Samsung

  • Odyssey Neo G9 is the world’s first gaming monitor with a dual ultra-high-definition (UHD) resolution. It has a 1000R curved 57” screen with 7,680×2,160 resolution and a 32:9 aspect ratio.
  • The display is equipped with quantum micro-LED technology for a better visual experience.
  • It is supported by the world’s first DisplayPort 2.1, which is capable of transferring data at twice the speed of the previous version.
  • For a smooth gaming experience, it offers a 0.1ms response time and 240Hz refresh rate. It is equipped with OTT apps (Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube) and the Samsung Gaming Hub streaming platform.
  • With the new monitor lineup, Samsung is focusing on enhancing the immersive experience of gamers through superior quality visual display and better refresh rate.

Other notable launches by Samsung

  • ViewFinity S9 is the newest addition to its monitor lineup. It comes with a 5K 27” screen for the first time. It is specially designed for creative professionals such as graphic designers and photographers.
  • Smart Monitor M8 has been launched in two variants – 27” and 32” – with 4K resolution. The main highlights of the device are its slick design and focus on advanced security through Samsung Knox Vault.

 

LG’s latest flagship gaming monitor 32GQ950

  • This is LG’s first-ever 45-inch curved OLED gaming monitor which offers a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms (GTG) response time for low-latency gaming applications.
  • It has an ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio and 800R curvature with a 3,440×1440 resolution.
  • It also sports an anti-glare and low reflection (AGLR) panel design to adjust the lighting in a bright room setting.
  • LG also quietly showcased a new gaming laptop (LG UltraGear 17G90Q) and UltraGear gaming speakers. With these new devices, it appears that LG is also shifting its focus toward gaming.

Lenovo tablet launch

Lenovo Tab Extreme

  • Lenovo Tab Extreme comes with a 14.5-inch OLED display and is also supported by Dolby Vision and HDR10+ to deliver superior quality while watching movies or series. It has eight speakers which are tuned by JBL.
  • It is equipped with a Dimensity 9000 chipset, 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of internal storage, 12,300 mAh battery, 68W fast-charging support and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
  • The touch display can also be operated with the in-house Lenovo Precision Pen 3.
  • The device is mainly targeted towards the enterprise segment. It will be available in the second half of this year in the US market for $1,199. At this price point, it is mainly competing with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and Apple’s iPad Pro.

Interesting TV launches

World’s first smart TV metaverse experience

  • Source Digital (a data-driven engagement platform) and Sansar (a social VR platform) showcased their metaverse offerings and capabilities on a smart TV to find new ways of monetizing the digital experience of users. The companies formed a partnership in July last year.
  • Through their user-friendly application, users can immersively watch real-time events such as concerts and sports events in a 2D or 3D setup. It also allows consumers to interact and engage with other people and even purchase merchandise.
  • The Sansar app is available on webOS LG smart TVs. Users will benefit from a personalized content experience. Last year, Samsung also partnered with Nifty Gateway to develop the first-ever smart TV non-fungible token (NFT) platform.

Samsung introduces new Neo QLED, Micro LED and OLED TVs

  • The Neo QLED lineup is powered by the company’s advanced Neural Quantum Processor and comes in 4K and 8K variants. The TVs are equipped with a single chip module for built-in Matter, Thread and Zigbee for seamless connectivity.
  • Samsung also released its bezel-less MicroLED TVs in display sizes of 50, 63, 76, 89, 101, 114 and 140 inches.
  • Samsung’s 2023 OLED lineup is now available in 55, 65 and the new ultra-large 77 inches models with 144 Hz refresh rate. For the first time, these Samsung OLED TV models receive AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro certification.
  • With these new devices, Samsung is aiming to enhance the viewing experience with better picture quality and offering a multi-device compatibility feature which is mostly absent in premium devices.
  • To deliver a smooth connected device experience, this time, SmartThings syncs not just with Samsung devices but also with third-party appliances and other IoT devices. Samsung has also integrated features like Chat Together (real-time chat), ConnecTime (video calls), 3D Map View and Samsung Gaming Hub to drive user engagement.

Skyworth showcases world’s first outdoor Google TV

  • The new model S1 is equipped with eight speakers and is supported by Dolby Atmos and HDR10 for an enhanced audio-visual experience.
  • The brand is focusing on providing high peak brightness and introducing high contrast to upgrade the product experience in its new smart TV.
  • In addition to S1, the brand also released the W82 Transformable OLED TV, Q52 Mini LED TV, G3B QLED+ TV, and the Coolita OS smart TV system.

LG releases world’s first wireless OLED TV  

  • LG Signature OLED M (model M3) TV is the world’s first 97-inch wireless TV that comes with an OLED display. LG is setting the benchmark for innovation with this new device.
  • The device supports content at 4K 120Hz and uses the company’s Zero Connect technology which is a wireless solution for the transmission of video and audio in real time.
  • This model also won the CES 2023 Innovation Award in two categories.

 

New smartwatches and TWS models from leading brands

Citizen releases Smart Sport and CZ Smart Casual

  • The claimed unique thing about these wearable devices is that they come with a built-in self-care advisor which offers personalized recommendations to create better routine habits.
  • Both these devices are supported by Google WearOS and the key differentiating factor is the case size and design.
  • These smartwatches are equipped with a heart rate sensor, SPO2, 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, built-in speaker, NFC and fast-charging support. Prices range from $350 to $435. These smartwatches will be available in the US from March 2023.

Fossil Gen 6 Hybrid Wellness Edition

  • The watch has mechanical hands that function like a vintage watch and a digital display that can be used to track health-related features and get weather-related updates.
  • This smartwatch is specifically designed for mechanical watch lovers and will be available at a price point of $299.

Verizon’s Gizmo Watch 3 for kids

  • This smartwatch comes in two attractive colors – blue clay and mint – and is specifically designed for kids to track their location for safety purposes.
  • It is priced at $149 and is capable of recording videos, along with the ability to send and receive messages and phone calls. It has built-in cellular connectivity.
  • Verizon is also offering $100 discount on the second Gizmo Watch 3 purchase for families with multiple kids.

 

Motorola launches new ANC earbuds: Moto Buds 600

  • It is the latest audio offering by the brand that comes at a price of $149.99.
  • The device is equipped with fast pair technology and comes with Bluetooth multi-point technology which allows the buds to be connected to two different devices simultaneously.
  • The device also supports Google Assistant and Wireless Charging.

JBL announces JBL Tour Pro 2 wireless earbuds

  • It offers the world’s first smart charging case. These earbuds come with a touchscreen on the charging case to quickly access the volume buttons, manage music, receive calls and receive social media notifications in real time without referring to an app or smartphone.
  • These earbuds will be available in the US for $249.95.

 

boAt showcases advanced audio products

  • boAt has partnered with tech firms such as Dolby, Dirac, Mimi and CEVA to showcase its advanced range of audio products.
  • boAt showcased its new Rockerz 330/333 ANC neckbands which are powered by Dirac Opteo technology.
  • Some of the other products launched in partnership with Dirac include the Rockerz Apex neckband, Nirvana Nebula, Airdopes Synth TWS and Nirvana 525 ANC neckband.
  • These new products are aimed at providing personalized audio offerings to enhance the user experience.
  • All the new TWS devices aim at improving the listening experience along with the diffusion of fast-charging capabilities so that they can be used for a longer duration.

Smart security products by Amazon

Amazon expanded its Ring product lineup with a new dashcam ‘Ring Car Cam’ and video doorbell ‘Ring Peephole Cam’

  • Ring Car Came comes with a dual-facing camera for interior and exterior view recording from the vehicle. It is also equipped with smart sensors to detect events around the vehicle. It is available for preorders at $199.99.
  • Ring Peehole Cam is a video doorbell that is equipped with a 1080p HD camera and motion detectors for smart security. It is now available in the US for $129.99.

Other notable smart device launches

  • Ring showcased a first view of its smart home security drone. It is a mini-drone that can be used as a flying security camera to spy on unusual activities at home.
  • Shelly, a division of Allterco Robotics, introduced eight new smart home products. The main products include a smoke alarm detector, energy meter, Android wall panel, door/window sensor, smart logs, and a Bluetooth device that can control all other smart home devices. The aim is to make these devices affordable for a large group of people.
  • Smartsound unveiled the world’s first AI-based smart stethoscope series under the names Skeeper R1, H1 and P1. These stethoscopes are designed to identify and monitor heart and lung sounds for remote medical treatment and home care.
  • Smart appliances by Samsung
    • Bespoke AI Oven: This smart oven is equipped with a ‘Sense Inside’ feature which can recognize up to 80 different dishes through an AI-based image recognition system, thus offering greater convenience and helping avoid overcooking of the food. It is the first AI food recognition algorithm that has received verification from UL solutions. It is currently available in Europe and will be available for sale in North America in Q3 2023.
    • Bespoke 4-door Flex refrigerator comes with a massive 32-inch touchscreen: It comes with a four-door design, and a very large display to control all other smart home devices, play music, watch videos and do grocery shopping through the SmartThings app.
    • Bespoke washer and dryer pair that use AI to optimize temperature settings and determine the ideal amount of detergent for each load.
  • Roborock refreshed its S8 series of robot vacuums: The top model in the refreshed series is the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra which has a 6kPa suction power as compared to 5.1kPa offered in the previous version. The new series focuses on enhancing cleaning efficiency through advanced features. The price of the Roborock series starts from $749.
  • Withings U-Scan urine analyzer: It is a Wi-Fi-connected device that is placed inside the toilet to analyze urine. It helps in providing nutrition and hydration information along with information on women’s menstrual health.

Conclusion

Most of the smart TV players focused on delivering superior quality and fast-gaming experience through bigger-size, high-quality OLED displays and better refresh rates. This time, the focus was also on multi-device connectivity features along with Matter support. Most of the technology companies focused on improving the customer experience.

In the wearables segment, the emphasis continued to be on health-related aspects and fast-charging support. Another important area that gained traction was smart security solutions due to the need for child and elderly care and to serve the needs of working professionals.

The CIoT market holds tremendous potential to grow in the coming period owing to an increased focus on affordability and integration of the latest tech innovations.

Apple, Huawei, Samsung Lead Global Smartwatch Shipments in Q3 2020

  • Shipments increased 6% in Q3 2020 compared to the same period last year.
  • The top five brands contributed more than 66% of the total shipments in Q3 2020.
  • China surpassed North America to become the market leader after seven quarters.

Continuing their growth trajectory amid the COVID-19 pandemic, global smartwatch shipments increased 6% in Q3 2020 compared to the same period last year, according to the recently published Global Smartwatch Model Tracker of Counterpoint Research.

Apple remained the market leader, increasing its share by 2 percentage points compared to the previous year. It launched its first mid-tier smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE, during the quarter. Priced at less than $300, it received a lot of attention from the market. Huawei also managed to maintain its second position with a 15% share, thanks to the good performance of its newly launched models, especially the ones for children. With the successful launch of the Galaxy Watch 3, Samsung took the third position, overtaking BBK (Imoo brand) during the quarter.

Exhibit 1: Global Smartwatch Shipment Share % in Q3 2020 vs Q3 2019

Global Smartwatch Shipment Share % in Q3 2020 vs Q3 2019

Senior Analyst Sujeong Lim said, “In terms of sales, Apple’s position is even stronger. In the third quarter, it achieved $2.3 billion, nearly half of global smartwatch revenue and an 18% increase over the same period last year. Samsung had stagnated in H1 2020. Since it appeals to fewer premium consumers compared to Apple, demand from its base was weaker during the pandemic. But it rebounded in the third quarter with the launch of the Galaxy Watch 3. In terms of revenues, Samsung grew 59% YoY and is expecting good growth momentum now.”

By region, China managed to surpass North America in shipments after seven quarters to become the market leader. The North American market, which showed a significant growth with the release of the Apple Watch Series 4, had continued to dominate since Q4 2018, but China managed to edge ahead in Q3 2020. China, where the share of children smartwatches exceeded 70% in the past, is now witnessing a growth momentum in the ‘normal’ smartwatch category.

Exhibit 2: Global Smartwatch Shipment Share % by Region

Global Smartwatch Shipment Share % by RegionIndia, which occupies only about 4% share, has emerged as a bigger market than the MEA (Middle East and Africa) and Latam (Latin America), with shipments growing 95% YoY. Lim added, “In India, local brand Noise is growing rapidly while realme, a Chinese brand familiar to Indian consumers,  launched the Watch in the third quarter. The country’s smartwatch market seems to have reached its first period of growth, thanks to the active expansion of brands. The market is expected to grow in earnest from the end of next year after recovering from COVID-19.”

A comprehensive report on smartwatch shipments by model and geography is available for subscribing clients on our research portal.

Background:

Counterpoint Technology Market Research is a global research firm specializing in Technology products in the TMT industry. It services major technology firms and financial firms with a mix of monthly reports, customized projects and detailed analysis of the mobile and technology markets. Its key analysts are experts in the industry with an average tenure of 13 years in the high-tech industry.

Analyst Contacts:

Sujeong Lim

Neil Shah

Jeff Fieldhack

Counterpoint Research
press(at)counterpointresearch.com

Related Posts

Hybrid Smartwatches Sales to Double in 2017

Hybrid smartwatches led by traditional watch makers is about to witness a breakout year and register stellar growth thus contributing to positive growth for the stagnant smartwatch segment.

San Diego, Buenos Aires, London, New Delhi, Hong Kong, Beijing, Seoul

March 10th, 2017

The smartwatch segment hasn’t been able to live-up to the early hype created around it, failing to achieve the expected sales growth in 2016. However, the smartwatch market is about to witness momentum this year in majority aided by “hybrid smartwatches” category. As per Counterpoint’s latest research, the hybrid smartwatch segment will cross US$ one billion mark in revenue in 2017, almost doubling annually.

Exhibit 1: Revenue Growth of Hybrid Smartwatches Segment

w1

The Hybrid smartwatches look and function like traditional analogue watches to the naked eye, but include smart features like step tracking, heart rate monitor, notifications and even NFC enabled payments. They connect to smartphones through dedicated apps available on iOS and Android stores allowing users to use the watch with traditional look and feel with smart functionalities.

Commenting on the potential of hybrid smartwatches, Counterpoint’s analyst Mudit Singh notes, “With sales of traditional analog watches under pressure from the likes of Apple and Samsung, luxury traditional watch brands such as Fossil Group, Tag Heuer, Citizen group and others, are turning to hybrid smartwatch form-factors to get a share of the smartwatch pie leveraging their core competency “design and craftsmanship”. Wearable tech brands including Garmin, Misfit, Withings (now, Nokia) among others are also now adopting the hybrid approach to enable greater battery life and drive usage as well as user experience”.

Mr Singh, further notes, “The rise of hybrid smartwatches can be attributed to traditional watchmakers trying to address two key pain points which has held the smartwatch segment growth – Firstly, preserving the traditional, aesthetics style, look and feel, secondly, maximizing the battery life while retaining ‘meaningful and frequently used’ smartwatch features”.

Exhibit 2: Share of Hybrid Smartwatches of the Total Smartwatch Segment.

w2

Commenting on hybrid smartwatches growth, Counterpoint’s Research Director, Peter Richardson added, “Hybrid smartwatches sales volumes will grow 77% annually taking the penetration to 12% of the total smartwatch volumes in 2017. Major focus on hybrid smartwatch segment by traditional watchmakers will drive this growth. For example: Fossil group launched almost 100 SKUs of wearables in 2016 including popular hybrid models such as the Skagen Hagen Connected, Misfit Phase, and Fossil Q series. The US watchmaker aims to triple the number of SKUs in 2017, with majority of those being hybrid smartwatches. Though the number of SKUs seems high, Fossil Group is able to hit multiple market segments with finely gradated offerings, but likely with similar or the same underlying technology solution to gain scale. This form of product marketing is something Fossil does well; much better than technology companies.  And with Baselworld-2017 around the corner, big announcements are expected from Citizen group and Fossil’s band of brands.”

Market Summary

  • Hybrid watches will grow exponentially in 2017 and will penetrate almost 12% of the smartwatch market.
  • More traditional watchmakers along with tech wearable makers will shift towards hybrid watch.
  • The wholesale revenue of the hybrid watch market in 2017 will double from the previous year, crossing a Billion$ mark.
  • In 2017, Fossil group will dominate the hybrid watch market with their plan to launch 300SKUs by the year end.
  • AI enabled hybrid watches will also be on rise, with the trend having already been adopted by brands like Martian and Guess.
  • The hybrid watches have strong potential to compete with smartwatch as it addresses key pain points while not compromising on aesthetics. We estimate them to capture almost one quarter of the smartwatch market by mid-2018.

Please feel free to contact us at press@counterpointresearch.com for further questions regarding our in-depth latest research, insights or press enquiries.

Analyst Contacts:

Mudit Singh
+91 9882585995
mudit@counterpointresearch.com

Parv Sharma
+91 9742596030
parv@counterpointresearch.com

Peter Richardson
+44 20 3239 6411
peter@counterpointresearch.com

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