January 25, 2025
Hi Reader,
This week we wrap up our coverage of the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2025) by providing our curated list of 10 New & Innovative Products for the Home that debuted at the show.
Though we enjoy learning about new technological options and creative solutions for the home, we are always cautious before making any major investments or changes involving new concepts.
The most important “features” we look for in products are proven utility, value and reliability. We want quality items that will last, be a good fit for our lifestyle, and be easy to use and maintain.
That said, new products and technologies can evolve very rapidly, while offering enticing, previously unimagined new features.
However, experience has taught us over many years that it is often beneficial to “wait things out” and let a new product category “work the kinks out” first.
At times, new technologies and flashy brands have been known to rise and fail quickly and spectacularly, often fueled by media hype and poorly formed expectations.
While preparing our list, we came across a smart indoor planter that had us scratching our heads for the following reasons:
- Interesting category? Check (gardening)
- Utility? Check (indoor plant care)
- Smart? Check
- AI? Check
- Value? Absolutely not — $148 for one pot and Wi-Fi bridge to “manage” a common houseplant?!
As the poor value proposition broke us out of our “AI-infused smart spell”, we were reminded how enjoyable and fulfilling "OG gardening" can be, making it a poor candidate for “smart outsourcing”. Even if the cost were to decline exponentially, it still wouldn’t make our list.
PS: Our previous newsletter can be found here.
PPS: If you wish to give support to organizations providing assistance to communities impacted by the LA Fires, please visit: L.A. Works.
