On Jan. 6, CES 2016 - the world's largest tech show - is set to open. Interestingly, it also coincides with the celebration of National Technology Day. The event highlights the achievements in technology, which are helping to change the world in several ways. It is the best time to recall technologies that have made their mark in 2015 or are poised to make a splash this new year.
Virtual reality led the pack of tech breakthroughs in 2015. The past year saw the "consumerization" of VR systems, wherein previously expensive setups such as the Oculus Rift have spawned cheaper and more portable devices that made the platform more accessible to the public. Samsung's Gear VR, along with Microsoft's Hololens and HTC Vive are just some of the most promising of these gadgets that could pave the way for a new way of consuming digital entertainment.
2015 could also be considered as the year of the wearable techs. More refined iterations of the smart watches such as the Apple Watch and fitness trackers emerged while innovative gadgets like Google Glass, smart jewelry and even hi-tech fashion and accessories gained footholds in the market. Each of these promises the increasing sophistication and portability of technologies today and the future.
Drones, robots and A.I. systems also claimed their share of the spotlight. New products in this category did not only feature improved technical capabilities but they also came with cheaper prices.
Finally, consumers have seen an increasing number of self-driving car prototypes in 2015. A fake Michigan city has been created for the sole purpose of its development and car manufacturers are already engaged in a race to produce the first vehicle that can drive around without human intervention. The year 2016 might just be time when an autonomous vehicle will finally be commercially available.
