The Latest Additions to "The Internet of Things"

It seems like ages ago now, but there was a time when smart watches and fitness bands were the first (and only) things that came to mind when someone mentioned “smart” products. This changed rapidly as coffee makers, toothbrushes and even egg trays were made compatible with smart phones and similar devices through mobile applications and the wonders of technology.

 

 

Smart tattoos that could administer drugs and generate power from sweat were among the more recent discoveries of how technology was being utilized to greatly expand the capabilities and functionalities of products we use every day. Having said that, it is unsurprising that the creative minds and engineers out there have continued to churn out new inventions that amaze.

 

 

Here is a look at some of the latest product additions to “The Internet of things”:

 

 

Baidu Kuaisou Chopsticks

 

For those who are huge fans of Chinese food – which many people are, this product is likely to peak your interest. The “smart” tool being referred to is the Baidu Kuaisou chopsticks. Who ever said chopsticks can’t be more useful than for simply putting food into your mouth? No one, hopefully, otherwise they’d be wrong.

 

 

The sensor-equipped sensors of the chopsticks are designed to indicate to the user – through a supported device and app – whether or not the oils used to prepare their meal was good or bad. Among other things, the eating utensil would test the peroxide value and pH level of the cooking oil, ultimately determining its freshness.

 

Those who are unaware may think that these chopsticks are from a start-up, but Baidu is one of the largest search engines in that hemisphere, and it oftentimes referred to as “the Chinese Google”. Unfortunately, the Kuaisou is not yet available commercially, but this could all change very soon.

 

 

94Fifty Smart Sensor Basketball

 

Having trouble getting your arc right? Want to see how many dribbles it takes you to get up and down the court? Well instead of having a friend try to build their coaching credentials on you, a basketball can give you the information you require. With regulation size and weight, the 94Fifty Smart Sensor Basketball is quite possibly the best tool that any basketball player (and their “coach”) could require to get their game to the next level.

 

 

With motion sensors, a player’s ability in various areas of basketball proficiency is measured in real time. The relevant data of their shooting and ball-handling skills is all delivered to a nearby mobile device.

 

 

The (free) mobile application is able to track the history of up to four players who utilize the smart ball. Not only can it help a player to develop their skills through various challenges, but the app also facilitates “head to head” competition. Notably, the technology can be utilized on both Android and iOS devices.

 

 

Parrot Flower Power Wireless Plant Sensor

 

Always dreamt of producing a lovely garden on your own, but lack the expertise or a “green thumb” to do so? The Parrot Flower Power Wireless Plant Sensor can put these concerns to rest.

 

 

Creatively shaped like a small branch, the gadget can either be placed in a flowerpot or directly into the earth, and with its sensors can be used to determine whether or not a plant is receiving enough sunlight, as well as the temperature and moisture of the soil.

 

 

Through the supported app, the plant sensor will send an alert to a smart phone or tablet when the plant requires attention. If you’ve forgotten to water your plants, this ingenious gadget will remind you. Boasting a database of over 7,000 plants, it is likely that adequate information – such as their basic needs and tips to keep them healthy – can be received for all the plants in your garden.

 

 

Smart Diapers

 

For years, parents (and even babysitters) have been hoping for an invention like this, and now it is a lot closer to reality. Soon, individuals will be able to purchase smart diapers for their toddlers, diapers that have the ability to send an alert when it needs to be changed.

 

 

Finally, parents will be able to avoid the dreaded “smell test”, or watch helplessly as the baby cries without knowing if he/she needs to be changed or fed. Aside from this, the diapers are also being designed to test the urine to alert parents as to possible medical issues, giving a whole new meaning to the term “early detection”.

 

 

Now, if only there were a gadget that would change the diaper as well. Or is that asking for too much?

 

 

 

 

The Latest Additions to "The Internet of Things"