Here’s a list of the best smart products to have with you at home while you work.

Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

The Amazon Echo is pretty widely known at this point. Alexa, anyone? And the best part is that it’s available for only $100. Not bad for a voice-activated assistant. 

With a 360 degree design, you’ll get the best sound output. Moreover, the speaker has an impressive bass, built-in Zigbee receiver, and Amazon sidewalk hub, which connects devices like lightbulbs. 

Google Nest Hub

The Nest Hub from Google easily beats the smart display launched by Amazon. Features here on the hub are similar to the ones available on the smart home speaker. 

However, in the Nest home, you get an additional display that provides you with the right feedback. The display shows all the spoken commands. Thus, a person knows the exact command heard by the assistant.

Google Nest Wi-Fi

Who can live without wifi right? The mesh router by Google transmits strong, speedy internet signals throughout the house. And is available at a price of $269. In a test, the router was able to cover an area of 5800 square feet which was highly impressive. 

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In 2022 we can look forward to big-budget movies like Moonfall, continuing series like The Expanse on Amazon Prime. Plus any number of exciting novels to hit bookstore shelves or our iPad libraries. But, amidst all our focus on science fiction, it might be easy to miss a lot the science ‘fact’ that is happening all around us. 

January 6

SpaceX launched 49 more Starlink satellites into Earth orbit. What are these things again? As a reminder, Starlink satellites are set to deliver low-cost, high speed internet to even the most remote regions of the world.

Elon Musk is at it again. There are now nearly 2,000 Starlink satellites orbiting the earth, with many more on the way.

January 24

Space nerds rejoice. The James Webb Telescope reached the gravitational balance point between the Earth and the moon (the second Lagrange point). It will now begin probing the universe in ways far beyond the capabilities of the Hubble Telescope that we have all come to know.

February 18

Perseverance, the robotic to land on Mars, will celebrate the first anniversary of its successful living on the red planet!

The rover will continue its ongoing mission that has already included launching the first helicopter ever to fly on the planet. How many of us expect colonization to happen here?

March

NASA’s Capstone mission will send a small satellite into lunar orbit that can be used to provide data for future lunar missions. 

Sometime in the spring, NASA will launch Artemis I. That one is yet another big step in the mission to return manned missions to the moon. The Artemis I will be an unmanned flight that looks to test the entry and splashdown of a newly designed crew module onto the moon. 

Last but not least is the Axiom-1. This plans to send the first private crew to the International Space Station this year.

The team will be commanded by a former NASA astronaut (and current Axiom VP), along with a crew of space ‘tourists’ including investors and philanthropists from the US, Canada, and Israel. It will mark the first commercial tourist flight to the ISS. So it begins….

April

The SpaceX Crew-4 will deliver another private crew to the ISS, as the commercial mission of the long-running station begins to take shape.

April/May

China may complete its own space station (Tiangong) as new modules will be launched and attached to the growing structure in 2022. 

May

Boeing’s Starliner will look toward a second flight attempt as it plans to provide another vehicle that can deliver crews to the ISS.

July

Russia is expected to launch its Luna-25 lunar rover this summer. The rover is expected to study the moon’s South Pole to better understand the composition of the region’s surface, while also studying things like plasma and dust in the lunar exosphere.

August

South Korea is expected to launch its first mission to the moon this summer as well. The Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter is set to launch in August from the Kennedy Space Center, onboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This mission would bring South Korea into the mix of countries focusing on space and lunar missions.

NASA is sending the Psyche mission to study the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Specifically, the mission will target an asteroid that is made almost entirety of metal to possibly unlock whether the asteriod is a literal gold mine of valuable minerals and resources or just a big rock.

September

NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) will complete its extended mission to survey the entire observable ‘sky’ which is scheduled to be completed in September. 

Russia and the European Space Agency are targeting this time period to launch their Rosalind Franklin rover mission to Mars, called ExoMars. It would arrive on Mars in 2023 and will look to further our understanding of the red planet.

NASA is executing a true science-fiction style mission, when it wil purposely crash the DART probe into the asteriod, Dimorphos to determine if it can change the course of the rock as it orbits a larger asteroid (Didymos). The probe launched in November and has been on it’s way to this date with destiny ever since. 

NASA’s Juno mission has been orbiting Jupiter since 2016 and in September it will execute a flyby of the moon Europa to send back the best images ever captured of the bright moon. This follows years of delivering amazing images of Jupiter. 

Other Missions

The SpaceX reusable Starship may finally lift off after a series of failed attempts. 

Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket (also a reusable vehicle) may launch. 

India’s space program may also become more active, with several unmanned test flights planned for later in 2022.

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But unless you’re a hard-core techie or computer scientist, you probably don’t know exactly what a quantum computer is. Or why it might be so revolutionary.  So, let’s take a look at what the hype is all about and how these new types of computers might have an impact on society and people’s lives.

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing is a facet of computer science that focuses on developing technology based on the principles of quantum theory. Quantum theory attempts to explain the behavior of energy and matter at the atomic and subatomic levels. Clear as mud? Let’s dig deeper.

Current computers encode every bit of information in strings of 1s and 0s. So basically every bit of data is based on having that either or value.

Quantum computing instead uses quantum bits (or qubits) instead of 1s and 0s. These qubits harness the unique ability of subatomic particles to exist in more than one state at the same time. So, they can be 1s or 0s at the same time. 

Well cool, but what does this mean in more practical terms? 

What can Quantum Computers Do (Potentially)?

This ability to use qubits and their unique properties allow quantum computers to handle operations at exponentially higher speeds than normal computers, while also using much less energy to operate. Quantum algorithms can be used to solve various computational problems far more efficiently than ever before. 

Traditional computers are best for everyday tasks, but quantum computers are best suited for running massively complex simulations and data analysis.

So, a quantum computer may never sit on your desk at home running the latest version of Windows.

But, it may well be used by large organizations like pharmaceutical companies, the military, financial institutions, scientific research, various manufacturers, and perhaps tech companies involved in the metaverse, to name a few. 

When will They Really Arrive?

They already exist, but continue to advance rapidly and should become available outside of computer research organizations like IBM in the years ahead. Here is a sampling of companies and businesses that are already investing in quantum computing technology.

Google is spending billions of dollars to build it’s own quantum computer by 2029. 

Manufacturing companies lke BMW, Airbus, LG Electronics and many others are all beginning to leverage quantum computing time from those now available for commercial use. Car manufacturers might use the technology to better identify where to put sensors on their automobiles for the most effective and efficient use. 

Financial companies like PayPal are looking to quantum computing for better fraud detection. While investment firms are working to determine if quantum computing can deliver better financial portfolio management. 

The military industry is looking to how this technology might help better identify threats, track missiles, or other complex tasks.

Basically, quantum computing is going to have a major impact on the technology that underpins many aspects of our society. But, it may never be something that an individual will leverage themselves, at least not for the foreseeable future.

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The term has been around for a while, but it gained traction last year after Facebook rebranded itself as Meta. The purpose behind the rebranding is to help foster in the next generation of the internet, aka the metaverse.

The term definitely isn’t new, as it has been around for decades. But, the concept has picked up momentum with more companies coming onboard with technology that can begin pushing the boundaries of the internet.

Definition of the Metaverse

Ok, but what exactly IS it? The metaverse can be described as a ‘simulated digital environment that uses augmented reality (AR) virtual reality (VR), and blockchain technology’. It creates virtual spaces that empower rich user interaction that may seem close to the real world. 

Well, that all sounds great. But it’s still a bit amorphous as to what exactly the metaverse is. Or what it will be.

Some say that an early form of the metaverse already exists. You can see these in gaming platforms like Minecraft, Fortnite, or even the almost 20-year-old social and gaming platform, Second Life.

However, none of these existing platforms truly leverages AR/VR, which is not commonly considered to be a foundational element of a full-fledged metaverse. 

The Potential of the Metaverse

If the metaverse eventually becomes what we think it will be, then we are looking at a near-parallel universe. In other words, a virtual world that largely parallels our in-real-live (IRL) lives. Think digital neighborhoods, parks, clubs, theaters, and other virtual versions of the real world. 

Imagine a VR world where you could interact with others and share experiences that are closely aligned with the real world. But without ever having to leave the comfort of your home or office.

Imagine attending a concert, seeing a movie, going to a museum, or simply engaging with people in this virtual world.

Challenges of the Metaverse 

At the same time, none of this truly exists yet. There are a number of technological and practical challenges of having the metaverse come to the realization. In addition to the adoption by a large portion of the population.

For one, entering an AR/VR version of the metaverse will require some sort of headset or glasses. Until they implant chips in our brains (not saying anyone is looking forward to that idea) there will always be some technology in between people and the metaverse. That can make a truly immersive experience more problematic. 

There also is no clear agreement on the development of one metaverse to rule them all. So, we may have many companies develop different metaverses that may or may not overlap or interact with each other. What if you needed a different headset to enter each metaverse? That would certainly diminish the adoption of any one option.

Are you ready to buy virtual real estate? What would property ownership look like in the metaverse? Would you need to buy a place to ‘live’? Would companies need to create virtual company headquarters? There are even countries that have expressed interest in having virtual embassies in the theoretical metaverse. 

Basically, we still have only an inkling of what the metaverse may look like. Expect that to change in 2022 as companies push forward with the technology to begin exposing people to the concept beyond the current gaming platforms. 

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What is Activision? 

Activision is the leading video game publishing company behind some of the world’s most well known favorites including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Diablo, and Candy Crush. 

Activision actually came under scrutiny last summer after multiple complaints of toxic work culture and sexual harrassment. Multiple employees were let go, but the CEO, Bobby Kotick, stayed on. 

It is rumored that Kotick will take his departure once the Microsoft deal closes, since there have been numerous calls for him to step down. 

The Deal

Activision’s main role in the acquisition is to help Microsoft into the leadership foray of our new, uncharted metaverse that will span all channels of digital entertainment. Microsoft will seek to expand its mobile gaming as well as boost its subscription, cloud-based gaming services.

The acquisition is valued at $68.7 billion and will make Microsoft the third largest video game maker in the world. The deal is expected to close sometime within the next 18 months.

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The portable Bluetooth speaker known famously for its pill-like shape was a product coming from an Apple and Dr. Dre Beats collaboration. 

The product has disappeared from both Apple and Beats websites.

However, there’s no information out there on why the product was discontinued. It was available as recently as January 5th of this year for $180. 

The Beats Pill Plus was first released in 2015 following Apple’s acquisition of Beats, which famously produced the Beats by Dre headphones a few years prior. 

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So what are they? 

Google was of course the first company to launch the first real prototype. But they pulled it, knowing it still needed a lot of work. But we can look at some basics for “smart” connectivity. 

For sound, the speaker for wireless audio inputs is at the end of the ear rest portion of the glasses. The audio is transferred to the ear via bone conduction. 

The tiny CPU that controls all the brain power of the glasses is also located in one arm of the ear rest. 

The microphone is perched under one hinge so you can have cellphone conversations, hands-free voice searches, and listen to music and podcasts. 

There is also a projector in the lenses. The upper part has a curved mirror which offers transparent digital displays without obscuring your regular line of sight. You can view any image or text on this part of the lens. 

Who’s making them? 

Qualcomm is making phone-connected glasses. The features will probably allow you to read text messages and make phone calls, or view your calendar. But I can’t imagine there will be extensive internet surfing capabilities on that yet. 

Nreal Light glasses are a good example of what to expect. The bottom parts of the lenses are clear but the upper halves are filled with tech and camera to track your location. 

Motorola is expected to announce its own pair pretty soon as well but there’s not too many details there.

What are the issues? 

It seems that they have a hard type syncing with any prescription glasses you might need at the moment. So don’t expect custom fits, or being able to use them the way glasses are supposed to be used. Yet. 

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Starlink is the name given to the network of satellites and started gaining traction last year in 2021. It now has nearly 2,000 satellites currently in orbit and more than 10,000 customers waiting to receive equipment and service. 

Ok, but what is Starlink? 

Starlink is the name of the satellite network, and is a branch of SpaceX. The first prototype satellites launched way back in 2018. The total number of satellites sits at 1,993. 

These satellites will basically provide internet connection, particularly those in rural areas who don’t already have access to high speed broadband. 

The service is only available in specific areas of the US and Canada at the moment. But the coverage map will grow exponentially. 

How fast will the internet be? 

The website states that data speeds will vary from 50 to 150 megabits per second, but will improve dramatically when the network grows. Musk tweeted last year that he expects the service to double its speeds to 300 Mbps by the end of 2021. 

How much will it cost? 

Right now, you can buy it on a first-come, first-serve basis. So there will be a backlog of queued customers. 

The cost is billed at $99 per month plus taxes and fees. That’s not including the initial payment of $499 for the dish and router you’ll need at home. 

That might all seem really expensive at first, but Musk ensures the cost is worth it for people who haven’t had reliable or fast internet at all. 

Ok, but aren’t satellites a thing of the past? 

True, fiber optic cables have been overtaking the internet game for a while now with super fast download and internet speeds. But, the infrastructure needed to deliver fiber optics to people’s homes is extremely difficult. 

Starlink’s satellite internet won’t have super top speeds due to the transmission distance. But it does at least promise to improve upon existing satellite connections due to the lower orbit altitude. 

Are there other issues with Starlink’s satellites?

There might not be other concerns with the technology, but there are a lot of concerns with the environmental impact. There will be a huge proliferation of satellites in space. I’m sure people feel about this the same way they felt about increased construction in their beautiful land.

The International Astronomical Union did release a statement warning of consequences on stargazing and protection of nocturnal wildlife since these satellites will illuminate the night sky. 

We’ll update more here if there are significant changes in the Starlink program!

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Of all the things on display, here’s a quick and unofficial list of the best of the best from each category.

Best PC: Asus Zenbook 17 Fold Laptop

Asus has an experimental computer which is just a screen that folds. The full opened width is a 17-inch display (much larger than your standard Apple Macbook Pro. There’s a kickstand on the back so it can stand itself upright too.

It has the ability to pair with a physical keyboard if that’s your thing, and attaches to the bottom of your screen so it almost looks like a regular laptop. 

Best in Mobile: Google Fast Pair

We all know Apple is hard to beat. Their ecosystem of various products that we use on the daily work seamlessly with each other. 

This is Google’s attempt at bringing that to Android, Windows, and Chromebooks. Fast Pair technology lets you instantly pair wireless headphones with an Android phone. This is now expanding to include Google TVs and Chromebooks, as well as being able to switch between various devices.

Best in Home Entertainment: Samsung Eco Remote

In addition to a slew of brand-new, fancy TVs at the showcase, we also have the aids to go along with it. Samsung has made a remote that will never need new batteries.

The Eco Remote charges from solar energy AND radio waves from your Wi-Fi router. 

Best Headphones: HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless

HyperX announced a few different gaming accessories this year. But this headset promises nearly 300 hours of battery life. The Cloud Alpha Wireless has aluminum forks, plush leather earpads, detachable microphone, and easy to navigate controls. 

300 hours is a lot to promise, but even if it only reaches 75% of that, that is still better than most of the competition out there.

Best in Home Audio: JBL 4305P Studio Monitors

These new JBL speakers combine professional engineering, classic design, and modern connectivity options. JBL is well-known in the professional recording studio community, but it’s time regular consumers adapt. 

These speakers will connect to Apple AirPlay, Google Chromecast, Bluetooth, Ethernet. 

Best in Smart Home: The SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit 

There are so many smart home devices these days, the biggest problem is just trying to connect them all. Samsung announced they are joining the Home Connectivity Alliance. This group will work together to form a consistent set of guidelines to enable communication between different devices. 

Best in Transportation: BMW iX Flow. 

This is probably the first step in the direction of making things invisible. BMW’s iX Flow bodywork tech allows your vehicle to change colors. You heard that right

E Ink panel technology uses microcapsules with negatively charged white pigments and positively charged black ones. At the push of a button, you can cycle through any shade between white and black or run patterns continually across the exterior. 

Best in Gaming: Liteboxer VR. 

Virtual reality has definitely more of a resurgence lately. This is a boxing workout you can do at home in VR style. 

You get to box a virtual pad in front of you, hitting specific points at the right interval to score higher points. There’s even a live trainer to help you maintain form. 

Best in Health Tech: Movano Ring

With clearance from the FDA, Movano officially has status as a certified medical device. This health-monitoring ring will launch later this year. 

It helps with common health problems like hypertension and high blood pressure and will most likely be the new “Oura” ring.

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To learn more about the New Shepard Rocket from Blue Origin and how it’s changing the future of private space travel, read on for more details about its mission specs, design, and test flight schedule.

About the New Shepard

Last year, Jeff Bezos unveiled his new rocket. The New Shepard is Blue Origin’s next-generation launch vehicle that will take people into space for suborbital flight.

About Blue Origin

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturer and spaceflight services company headquartered in Kent, Washington. It was founded by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos with its own funding in 2000.[4] The company is working on an orbital launch vehicle named New Glenn and a suborbital spacecraft named New Shepard.

Both are intended to be launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.[5][6] Development of both vehicles is underway; New Shepard has already made several successful test flights[7][8][9], while development of New Glenn began in 2017.[10] Both are scheduled to begin flying commercial payloads into orbit around 2020.

Why did they choose this rocket design?

It’s reusable, which means it can be used over and over again with minimal refurbishment between flights. This cuts down on launch costs substantially—the company says it costs less than $200,000 to launch its rocket compared to tens of millions for a traditional one. It also allows companies to quickly scale up their operations by making multiple launches per day possible (at least in theory).

Finally, using a reusable rocket design like Blue Origin’s helps reduce waste and environmental impact, as each new craft will cost far less than ones currently available. A commercial spaceflight startup called XCOR Aerospace plans to release another reusables-based rocket within two years as well; they say they’ll eventually charge $9500 per kilogram transported into low-Earth orbit.

How will it work?

The new rocket is no mere upgrade or refit of existing launchers. With its hydrogen-fueled, methane-powered rocket engine, Blue Origin’s launcher will be able to carry passengers 62 miles above Earth into suborbital space—and then bring them back home again. Onboard, six crewmembers and a pilot can experience four minutes of weightlessness before reentering Earth’s atmosphere at supersonic speeds.

During reentry, special parachutes deploy in order to slow down the capsule; it finally lands via retrorockets, which also serve as landing legs for when it touches down in one piece at its destination on land. The process requires intensive training, but that didn’t stop anyone on Team Ars Technica from signing up. In fact, we all hope to go someday. We just need tickets first…

What’s next?

On Nov. 23, 2018, Jeff Bezos’ spaceflight company, Blue Origin, successfully launched and landed its New Shepard reusable rocket for the eighth time. The test flight took place at 11:21 a.m. EST (16:21 UTC) and was conducted at Van Horn, Texas — just south of El Paso in southernmost Texas.

This is not just another successful launch or landing; it represents an important step forward in Bezos’ plans to take tourists into suborbital space by 2019 — perhaps as early as next year. Here’s why New Shepard matters for both human history and human future.

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