Hot Tech: Devices Revolutionizing The Electronics World
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Up until now, the field of view in gaming has been what's directly ahead. But, get ready as the big hitters send virtual reality to the consumer market.
Starting with the Oculus Rift, which KDKA's John Shumway gave a spin at Carnegie Melon University's Entertainment Technology Center.
Technology Director Drew Davidson said the incredible technology is showing up in the form of several new devices.
"I've done the Vive, which knows where you are in space and you feel more comfortable. You can walk around in the space. And you have hands represented in space so you can interact in that virtual space," he explained.
While people at CMU are using the technology to develop training tools for doctors, the possibilities are almost endless. For instance, putting you in the front row of a live concert, or scoping out a beach rental property.
But, the new form of fun doesn't come cheap. The Rift is expected to come in at $600. Many people expect that Sony will come out with a cheaper option.
New technology is rarely cheap, and that's especially true for the self-flying Lily, a camera drone that, once launched, follows you shooting HD video.
"The Lily is probably going to between $900 and $1,000 when it first hits retail," according to Dr. Frank Viggiano, a tech expert for WhatsNewDrFrank.com.
He said the Lily's battery only last 20 minutes and the camera has no stabilizer.
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"The problem I see is without stabilization, if there's a wind you are going to have some issues," Viggiano explained.
GoPro is expected to have a similar product later in the year, so waiting might be a good idea.
Amazon Echo is the latest in home controls hardware. Scott Stevens, a CMU Professor, outlined its positive points.
"It's great because you can talk to it, ask it the weather, ask it to play music," he said.
Stevens has been testing the Echo for a year, and like Dr. Frank who's had one almost as long, he loves its versatility.
"It's listening constantly to what you're asking it, but more importantly, it's a speaker itself and it's not bad. It does a pretty good job," he said.
Using Bluetooth technology it's designed to connect with more and more smart technology, from your TV and entertainment systems, to Spotify.
It even controls your home, adjusting the lights and heat at your command. It goes for around $200 depending on promotions. Google and Apple are expected to come out with competing devices soon.
In the smartphone world, wireless charging is the rage this year with Apple's new iPhone getting into the game.
Experts say Apple is working on a way to charge your phone by just being in a charging area.
Until then, the wireless charging world is really taking off with places like IKEA now offering furniture with charging spots. But, there's a reason for all these adapter cases, not all phones have the built-in charging receivers and there are different technologies in play.
