Berlin's IFA tech show is the largest in Europe, and while the hype may not match its American big brother CES, there's no shortage of weird and wonderful devices to reward curious visitors. — AFP Relaxnews
Berlin's IFA tech show is the largest in Europe, and while the hype may not match its American big brother CES, there's no shortage of weird and wonderful devices to reward curious visitors.
Tame luggage
I-Porter may be the solution for those fed up with juggling phone, passport, boarding pass and hand luggage at the airport. The cabin-sized suitcase is motorised and follows its human master with the aid of a laser detection system. If you're worried about its affections straying, an optional Bluetooth bracelet can help avoid mix-ups. Around €1,500 (RM7,211).
Iron chef
German home electronics maker AEG is offering a range of frying pans and saucepans with built-in sensors. They can step in to turn down the heat quickly if it looks like your dish risks bubbling over or browning too close to black.
Babelfish
It's not quite the universal translator promised by Douglas Adams in The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy, but the Pocketalk (around €230 / RM1,106) makes a fair stab. Speak a phrase into the hand-held box and it will translate into more than 70 languages – as long as it's connected to WiFi or the mobile network and doesn't mishear you.
Rolling thunder
Danish high-end audio specialists Bang and Olufsen show off a futuristic, tactile speaker, the Beosound Edge, that can be attached to the wall or placed on a table. To adjust the volume, just roll the almost featureless circular device to left or right. Touch controls appear on the surface when the proximity sensors detect you are close. – AFP Relaxnews
