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Ten Innovative Ideas in Consumer Electronics

Laptop computers arranged in a display at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas
Laptop computers arranged in a display at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show in Las VegasPhotograph by David Paul Morris/Bloomberg

Every year hundreds of new products and technologies make their debut at the annual Consumer Electronics Show. Some will have their 15 minutes of fame; others will have a longer-lasting impact because they represent a product or trend that has the potential to reshape the business world. Here are my picks for the top 10 technology trends from the 2013 CES:

Tablets everywhere
Tablets are becoming the tool of choice for many business applications as companies find new ways to adapt them. Compulocks, Aspire Innovation (PDF) and other accessory manufacturers were showcasing mounts to convert iPads and other tablets into new tools—everything from customer service kiosks to quality control monitors. Startup iHealth Labs has a line of medical devices such as blood pressure monitors with iPad docks so that they can be used as controls and for monitoring. This may be just the start, as tablets are inexpensive and easy to program, making them superior replacements for many devices.