Cherlynn Low, Deputy Editor at Engadget, shares her insights into cutting-edge consumer technology. Ed Ongweso Jr. adds a cultural perspective on the evolving sex tech industry, emphasizing the need for open discussions around sexual wellness. David Roth highlights the absurdities of CES innovations, including quirky products that challenge practicality. Phil Broughton, a health physicist, provides expertise on laser safety, discussing regulations that could impact new tech. Together, they explore the intersection of technology, culture, and health, creating a lively dialogue.
The podcast highlights the evolving perception of vulnerability in men regarding sex, emphasizing the importance of open conversations around this topic.
Discussions on the sex toy industry reveal a significant shift in societal attitudes towards sex tech, showcasing its growing acceptance at events like CES.
The integration of robotics in household products is transforming daily routines, demonstrating technology's role in enhancing convenience and functionality for consumers.
Attendees at CES expressed excitement and camaraderie, underlining the event's ability to foster connections and shared insights among tech enthusiasts.
Deep dives
Cheap Caribbean Vacations Celebrates 25 Years
Cheap Caribbean Vacations is celebrating its 25th anniversary alongside the new year in 2025, presenting an opportunity for consumers to book beach vacations with significant savings. Customers can access various vacation packages with discounts of up to $250 available until February 3rd. This promotion encourages holidaymakers to book their dream all-inclusive vacations and enjoy popular beach destinations. The celebration emphasizes the long-standing success of the brand while inviting both new and returning clients to take advantage of the special offers.
Cashback Rewards with Colgate-Palmolive
Colgate-Palmolive is offering cashback rewards as part of a new promotion to help consumers refresh their household essentials in the new year. By purchasing their products, customers can earn up to a $10 digital Visa prepaid card when they buy $30 worth of items, with smaller rewards available for $20 purchases. This initiative encourages shoppers to stock up on familiar products like Colgate toothpaste and Palmolive dish soap while getting rewarded for their purchases. The process is simple, involving a quick upload of receipts to receive cash back.
Social Gaming Experience on Flights
Chumba Casino emerged as a popular gaming choice for travelers, as highlighted in a discussion about leisure activities on flights. Passengers can engage in a range of casino-style games for free through the platform, making their travel experience more entertaining. This reflects a growing trend of incorporating social and interactive gaming experiences into everyday situations. Chumba Casino's appeal lies in its accessibility and the variety of games offered to users at any time.
Land.com Facilitates Outdoor Adventures
Land.com serves as a resource for individuals seeking to connect with nature through a variety of outdoor properties, including ranches and forests. The platform allows users to search for specific land types based on their location and outdoor interests, such as hunting and fishing. This emphasis on outdoor space resonates with those looking for an escape from urban life, catering to a desire for adventure and exploration. Land.com is marketed as a gateway to finding one's piece of nature, fostering a sense of wanderlust.
Greenlight: Financial Literacy for Families
Greenlight is a debit card and money management app designed to assist families in teaching children financial literacy. The app allows parents to send money to their kids, set up chores, automate allowances, and monitor spending habits. This initiative aligns with the increasing recognition among parents of the importance of imparting financial skills to children. By utilizing Greenlight, families can create an educational framework for managing money effectively, which is regarded as a vital life skill.
Reflecting on CES Experience
The CES experience is examined through the lens of attendees sharing their perceptions and activities over the course of the event. Participants expressed sentiments of excitement and surrealism as they navigated the show and the innovative products on display. Conversations also highlighted a sense of camaraderie among first-time attendees and seasoned veterans alike. The excitement of participating in such a significant technology showcase promotes personal connections and shared insights.
Discussion on Diversification of Content at CES
There were conversations about the expansion of topics covered at CES, with an emphasis on including diverse subjects such as sex tech and health-related innovations. The discussion centered around the necessity of acknowledging the role of various industries in shaping the current technology landscape. There were references to past controversies regarding the acceptance of sex tech at CES, suggesting a shift in attitudes over the years. Addressing these themes supports a more comprehensive portrayal of technological advancements impacting everyday life.
Innovations in Home Technology
Within the CES dialogue, attendees noted the integration of robotics and smart technology in everyday household products, enhancing user convenience and functionality. Examples included advancements in vacuum technology, particularly a model equipped with robotic arms designed to assist with cleaning tasks. These innovations demonstrate a growing emphasis on using technology to alleviate mundane chores, making life easier for consumers. This development signals a trend toward smarter homes that seamlessly integrate mechanical assistance into daily routines.
Welcome to Better Offline’s coverage of the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show - a standup radio station in the Venetian with an attached open bar where reporters, experts and various other characters bring you the stories from the floor.
In Part 1 of our 5th day covering CES, Ed Zitron is joined by writer Ed Ongweso Jr, David Roth of Defector, Cherlynn Low of Engadget and Health Physicist Phil Broughton to talk about men and their lack of vulnerability about sex, the sex toy industry, age tech, exoskeletons…and lasers!
