From Senior Editor Tekla Perry at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show:
Last week, getting ready for CES, I made a few predictions. The show has yet to officially open, but already a couple of my predictions came true, during the press conference day that precedes the show.
--The first extremely thin TV appeared at the Pioneer press conference, in the form of a 9 mm thick plasma TV, thinner than an iPhone. It was indeed a prototype. One point.
--There indeed was a product demonstrated today that got a lot of buzz (mostly of the “what are they thinking” kind) and will likely not make it to retailers shelves (or at least never get off those shelves into a shopping bag). That’s the Active Crystal pendant from Philips. Studded with Swarovski crystals and priced at around $150, this pendant, either shaped like heart or a lock, pops open to reveal USB thumb drives. The coordinating crystal bedecked earbuds might, however, have a chance in the market. Another point.
--Bill Gates, for his keynote speech, abandoned his traditional Martha Stewart Living type set for a giant screen and virtual scenery. No score.
--As for not getting a free lunch, I’ve got a ticket that says I’m entitled to a free lunch as long as supplies last. I think I’m safe giving myself the point there.
Finally score—three out of four. Not bad.
