The Electronic Numerical Integrator Analyzer and Computer (ENIAC) was one of the first and most famous consumer computers. Built at the University of Pennsylvania, the ENIAC was designed to do ballistics calculations for the U.S. Military during World War II and cost $500,000. Despite its daring innovation and entry into the personal computer market, the ENIAC weighed 30 tons and required 2,000 square feet of floor space.
We’ve come a long way since the technological innovations of the World War II era. Today’s innovations are generally smaller, lighter weight and capable of doing more than just ballistic computing. Let’s take a look at some of the most innovative tech of 2016.
Samsung Galaxy S7
CNet called the Samsung Galaxy S7 the best all-around phone out today for its design, durability and function. A curved back makes it easy and comfortable to hold, and it can withstand some wear and tear without breaking or cracking. A 12-megapixel, rear-facing camera and 5-megapixel, front-facing camera take crystal clear photos and videos whether you’re traveling or taking snapshots of friends and family. The Galaxy S7 also features up to 28 hours of talk time and 12 days of standby time.
Edyn Garden Sensor
Create a flourishing garden with state-of-the-art technology. The Edyn Garden Sensor and Water Valve track environmental conditions and keep you connected so you know how to keep your plants healthy. This smart gadget is planted right in your soil and connects to your Wi-Fi network. From there, you get real-time guidance sent right to your phones. Are you not sure how much to water your plants? Edyn water valve automatically checks on soil conditions and gives your plants exactly the right amount of water.
Diet Sensor
The new Diet Sensor gadget scans your food and gives you information about the nutrition of your food. It also can make suggestions for your health or dietary needs. For example, if you have diabetes, the app offers recommendations to help you make more informed decisions about how the food may affect your weight. The Diet Sensor does more than manually log your meals like mainstream diet apps. Just point, click, scan and get the nutritional info you need in real-time.
Harman In-Car Monitoring System
Car manufacturers have been working to make driving more intuitive by minimizing the need to take your eyes off the road. Instead of hunting around for the buttons that control the music volume or windshield wipers, cars are making it easier to find what you need or offer voice control.
Harman takes it a step further by measuring your pupil dilation. Its eye and pupil tracking system can measure high cognitive load and too much multitasking. Instead of telling you to pay more attention, it can signal the car’s safety systems to adapt to whatever you need, such as putting your phone in do-not-disturb mode. The hope is to make driving safer and save thousands of lives every year.
Lily Camera
Drones have been the technological rage for a few years, but the Lily Camera does more than just fly. Throw it in the air and let it fly as it records what you’re doing or takes photos of the scenery around it. The Lily Camera is also waterproof and can float on its own. Without the need for a controller, the Lily is ideal if you’re an adventurer who wants to get footage of your race down a snowy mountain or sprint down the beach.
