Tag Archives: AI

Nov 28 2025
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Rethinking Smart Living

For years, the smart home market has been in a state of flux, promising a future of seamless usability but often delivering a confusing array of hardware and rising costs. Early adopters often became frustrated troubleshooters, grappling with incompatible devices and a confusing array of apps. Now, thanks to the latest developments at IFA 2025 in Berlin, this narrative is taking a turn for the better. There is a renewed sense of promise that this sector can take positive steps forward to become the seamless part of our lives we imagined it would be when we first uttered the words “Hey Google”.

This year’s event provided us with a real insight into the direction some of the biggest players in the sector are heading and the consumer trends they are tapping into. The focus has shifted from novelty to genuine utility, addressing the friction points that held back mass adoption. The market is moving from a collection of gadgets to a cohesive ecosystem.

The UK Market and Key Trends

UK interest in the sector has remained strong, even though initial momentum has plateaued. Ownership of smart products has doubled in the past five years. Knowledge of products is a key factor in the market, and around 80% of UK households have at least one smart home product.

A big part of further adoption is devices that are able to operate with other products, be it other device categories or brands. Matter, the open-source protocol that enables devices from different brands to seamlessly interact, has been a slow burner since its 2022 release. However, its growing importance is as critical to the category’s future as ever. It operates over Wi-Fi and, crucially, Thread, a low-power mesh network where each new device strengthens the entire system’s reliability and speed. Virtually all major brands, including smart lighting partners like Philips, revealed enhanced Matter support in their products at IFA 2025. This move reaffirms their commitment to the protocol and highlights its benefits.

Alongside this element, new AI features are also expected to drive a new wave of smart home interest, as Google has scheduled a Gemini for Home rollout for later this year. The era of the simple, reactive voice assistant is ending, replaced by proactive partners that can handle complex requests like, “Plan a dinner menu based on my smart fridge’s inventory and start a cooking playlist.” At IFA, brands like Aqara showcased AI capabilities for their security cameras, enabling them to better detect people or motion, delivering those insights to the user. The new generation of smart assistants aims to enhance task completion and responsiveness. They are also designed to be more conversational and interactive.

Smart Home Security

The trend in security is about being Proactive and AI-powered. Instead of just passively recording events, modern systems use on-device AI to actively identify specific threats and take deterrent action. This intelligence transforms security from a reactive tool to a preventative one. 

The smart home security market is valued at £31.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to over £114 billion by 2034, showing a strong CAGR of 15.31%.

The Google Nest ecosystem serves as a prime example of this intelligent security. The Nest Cam and Nest Doorbell use sophisticated on-device AI to differentiate between people, packages, animals, and vehicles, ensuring users only receive important alerts. This on-device processing also means faster notifications and enhanced privacy. A key feature is Familiar Face detection, allowing the system to learn who belongs at your home, so it can specifically announce on a Nest Hub or speaker when a family member arrives, or if an unfamiliar face is at the door. This deep integration is key; a motion alert from a Nest Cam in the garden can automatically display its live feed on the Nest Hub in your kitchen, providing immediate context without you needing to reach for your phone.

Smart Lighting

The market has moved beyond simple colour changes to focus on Human-Centric Lighting. This trend is all about wellness, with systems automatically adjusting the colour temperature of light to support the body’s natural circadian rhythm. 

The global smart lighting market is valued at approximately £27.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach over £100 billion by 2032. Affordability was also a focus at IFA, with 35% of UK consumers saying that their smart home adoption is hampered by higher costs.

Trending Products:

Philips Hue: Remains the market leader. Its popularity is currently being boosted by wellness-focused products like the Philips Hue Twilight sleep lamp. In a move to address costs, the brand also brought in a new range of lower-priced bulbs starting at £25, which importantly support Matter over Thread connectivity to drive new user adoption.

Nanoleaf: Very popular for its aesthetic, modular light panels like Nanoleaf Shapes. The brand has gained ground by being an early adopter of the Matter and Thread protocols, making its products exceptionally fast and reliable.

Govee: A fast-growing competitor, especially popular with gamers, driven by vibrant, customisable products like the Govee Curtain Lights at an accessible price.

Wearables In Focus

The trend for personal tech has also evolved significantly. Wearables have transformed from fitness trackers into Personal Health Hubs. The focus is on advanced health monitoring and providing actionable insights for sleep and recovery. 

The global wearables market is valued at an estimated £165.7 billion in 2025. While smartwatches are the biggest segment, smart rings are the fastest-growing category.

Trending Products:

Pixel Watch: The Pixel Watch’s Wear OS platform is the intelligent software powering a range of smartwatches. The flagship example is the Google Pixel Watch, which combines helpful Google features like Maps, Wallet, and Calendar on your wrist with deep health integration from Fitbit. It excels at providing a holistic view of your wellness, tracking everything from daily steps and heart rate to advanced sleep analysis with a daily Sleep Score.

Oura Ring: The leader in the smart ring category. The Oura Ring is popular with users focused on sleep quality, using metrics like HRV and body temperature to generate a daily “Readiness Score.” It syncs with Google’s Health Connect, allowing its data to contribute to a user’s overall wellness picture.

Convenience, Savings, and Privacy

One of the biggest draws of smart home technology is the convenience it offers. This sentiment is echoed by industry leaders, who state that “The AI Home isn’t about building a sci-fi house of the future, it’s about those simple wins that make life easier”

This ability to centralise management of devices allows for greater energy efficiency, allowing for utility cost savings which touch upon strong customer sentiment. Since heating accounts for about 55% of household energy use, smart thermostats can learn user habits and adjust heating schedules, potentially saving owners hundreds of pounds a year. This extends to smart plugs, cutting power to standby devices and appliances running during cheaper, off-peak hours.

As these systems integrate into our lives, privacy has become paramount. In response, the industry is shifting to on-device processing, where powerful chips inside devices like a Google Nest Cam analyse data locally instead of sending it to the cloud. This keeps personal data within the home, enhancing privacy and response speed. Brands now compete not just on features, but on their commitment to transparent security policies, a key factor in purchasing decisions.

With the UK smart home market set for an annual growth rate of 10% through to 2029, up to around £14bn, there is a huge market for brands to get involved with if they can marry up their products and ecosystems to the key consumer trends. The real promise is a convenient smart home that works seamlessly, saves money, and respects user privacy.

To read the published article by Rupert Cook, Marketing Director, please visit ERT

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Nov 05 2025
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The Digital Toolkit – Ai, Social Media and SEO for the Modern Retailer

For modern retailers, a robust digital presence is no longer optional; it’s essential for survival. Today’s digital landscape is complex, but by focusing on key strategies and leveraging the right tools, retailers can build strong customer relationships, boost brand visibility, and drive sales.

At its core, a good digital marketing strategy creates attractive online experiences that not only showcase products but also build trust and loyalty. It’s about meeting customers where they are, whether that’s on social media, in their email inboxes, or through search engines. This strategic approach allows even small and medium-sized retailers to compete with larger brands, extending their reach with a targeted message.

The Power of Social Media and Content

While many retailers are already on social media, the key to success isn’t just being present—it’s being effective. The importance of social media is clear, with global spending on social media advertising projected to reach approximately $276 billion in 2025 [Source: Talkwalker]. This highlights social media’s dominant position in the marketing landscape. Furthermore, a significant majority of consumers who have a positive interaction with a brand on social media are more likely to recommend that brand to their friends and family [Source: Synup].

However, what matters most is the content you create.

Content is King. This timeless phrase holds true now more than ever. Your content needs to be appealing, engaging, effective, and consistent. Whether you create it in-house or partner with the brands you stock, the goal is to captivate your audience and showcase your products in a way that feels authentic. For many small retailers, the challenge is having the time, budget, and creative skills to produce high-quality content.

Fortunately, modern AI tools have emerged as a real lifeline. What once took hours can now be done in minutes. AI can assist with everything from generating content ideas to writing compelling ad copy and even analysing campaign statistics. According to Talkwalker, 90% of businesses using generative AI report meaningful time savings, and 73% see tangible engagement rate lifts from AI-assisted content [Source: Talkwalker]. Tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are at the forefront of this revolution.

But AI doesn’t stop at text. Tools like Gemini’s Veo 3 & Lumen5 can create professional-quality videos from a few words of text, complete with voice-overs. If you want to reach a wider, multilingual audience, Sonix AI can translate your content and videos into different languages. This is a crucial strategy, as a majority of people prefer to learn about new products through short videos [Source: HubSpot].

The Unseen Hand of SEO

Another crucial, often overlooked tool is Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). In simple terms, SEO improves your website’s search engine rankings. It’s the difference between being on the all-important first page of Google or being lost on page ten.

The importance of SEO speaks for itself when you consider that 53% of all website traffic comes from organic searches [Source: WordStream]. SEO delivers a high return on investment (ROI), with some estimates suggesting a minimum ROI of 500% [Source: Improvado]. When compared to paid ads (PPC), SEO delivers a higher conversion rate, with some sources reporting that SEO converts at a rate of 2.4%, nearly double that of PPC’s 1.3% [Source: Sagapixel].

SEO involves a mix of strategies, including:

  • Use relevant keywords that your customers search for.
  • Create high-quality, valuable content that answers user questions.
  • Improve your site’s speed and user experience.

The goal of SEO is to increase organic (non-paid) traffic to your site, making it more visible to people who are actively looking for your products or services. A key benefit is its cost-effectiveness; many SEO tactics are free to implement. Simply ensuring your product pages include relevant keywords, such as “laptops” or “televisions,” for an electronics retailer can significantly increase the likelihood of your website appearing in search results.

Bringing It All Together

From AI for content generation to SEO for discoverability, retailers have a wide array of tools at their disposal. By strategically combining these techniques, mastering social media, embracing AI, and prioritising SEO, you can build a robust digital presence that not only attracts new customers but also keeps them coming back.

To read the published comment by Callum Puffett, Digital Marketing Manager, Gekko Group, please visit ERT

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Sep 30 2025
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Hey Google, play ‘Deck the Halls’

The magic of Christmas is getting a high-tech makeover. This year, holiday wish lists are moving beyond the typical gadgets and into the realm of the truly smart home. While a new television is still a coveted gift, modern shoppers are seeking next-generation devices that do more than just entertain. They want technology that simplifies daily life, saves energy, and offers peace of mind. This holiday season is all about bringing the future home, with gifts that make every room in the home a little smarter.

A New Era of Home Entertainment

While smart homes are all about efficiency and function, they’re also revolutionising our leisure time. The UK’s television market is set to grow significantly, with consumers always choosing smart TVs because it’s the only option available. However, the latest models from brands like Hisense and Samsung are, as we know, more than just screens to watch and stream to; they are increasingly becoming the central hub of the connected home. The push towards the most advanced display technologies, like brighter OLEDs and more sophisticated Mini-LED backlighting, is a key driver in the purchasing decisions consumers make on their customer journey. These innovations not only deliver incredible picture quality, making everything from blockbuster films to immersive visual feasts, but also create a hub for movie nights, sporting event parties, gaming and casting your treasured photos. Some could argue that with such a powerful TV, why do I need a soundbar? Doesn’t it already have the best possible sound I could get in any TV? Yes, but think of it like the difference between that watch, the one with or without diamonds; it’s the same watch, but it makes a bigger impact. Soundbars, like the Hisense HT Saturn or the Sonos Arc Ultra, are hugely popular for their ability to deliver cinematic audio without the clutter of a full surround sound system. Smart home projectors are also gaining traction, offering the ultimate in-home movie experience. Brands like Hisense and Nebula are making high-quality projection more accessible, turning any living room wall into a gigantic screen for gaming or film nights.

Automated Cleanliness & Comfort: The Rise of Smart Living

The convenience of an automated home is no longer a luxury but a growing expectation; it’s standard for many. The UK’s smart home market continues to grow, with a value estimated at £8.07 billion in 2025 and over 80 per cent of consumers already owning at least one smart product. This trend is driving demand for a new generation of household essentials that span multiple categories in the home. Leading the charge are devices like robot vacuums and mops from brands like Dreame, equipped with advanced navigation and self-emptying docks, which have become highly desirable for maintaining a tidy home with minimal effort. This desire for automated cleanliness extends to smart laundry appliances and even smart lawnmowers, creating a truly effortless living environment. Beyond cleaning, the desire for comfort and health is increasing the popularity of a range of gadgets. Sales of air purifiers and adaptive lighting systems are on the rise, creating the perfect atmosphere and mood with the touch of a button, while smart fragrance diffusers add another layer of sensory comfort. Furthermore, the market for smart health devices is booming, with products like smart scales that track a variety of metrics and air quality monitors that help users understand and improve their home environment. These devices are all part of a larger ecosystem of connectivity and integration, making every aspect of home life smarter and more intuitive than ever before.

Smart Savings for a Sustainable Season

With energy costs still a key concern, especiallyas we approach those months when the heating is switched back on, consumers this Christmas will be very much thinking about smart, cost-saving investments. Thanks to the ongoing smart meter rollout and a growing push for sustainability, energy-efficient appliances are a must-have. The UK’s smart thermostat market is a prime example, with significant growth projected as consumers look for ways to manage utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint. Smart thermostats, such as the Nest, go beyond simple scheduling. They learn your routine, use geofencing to detect when the house is empty, and can even sense an open window, automatically adjusting the temperature to prevent wasted energy. Giving a gift that helps someone save money and reduce their carbon footprint is a present that keeps on giving all year long. This sentiment also extends to other energy-conscious gifts, from smart plugs that let you remotely switch off power-hungry devices to smart lighting systems

that allow for precise control and scheduling, reducing electricity consumption for lighting by up to 80 per cent. These thoughtful gifts empower people to take control of their energy usage, making their homes more comfortable and their wallets a little fatter in the long run.

Peace of Mind Under the Tree

The desire for a secure home to protect those things you hold dear is a year-round priority, making smart security a prime gift category. The smart home security market is a powerhouse, valued at GBP 30.07 billion and continues to grow with innovations like AI-powered video analytics. For the holidays, popular gifts like the Google Nest Doorbell offer more than just technology—they offer peace of mind, allowing people to monitor their homes and feel safe, no matter where they are. This security-focused trend extends beyond simple doorbells to a wide range of devices. Sophisticated smart locks that allow keyless entry and track access are becoming increasingly popular, as are wireless outdoor cameras with must-have features like infrared night vision and customisable motion zones.

Small Gifts, Big Impact

While some gifts aim to transform a whole room, others are designed to elevate a single moment. This holiday season, thoughtful, smaller gifts are making a huge impact byenhancing daily life without a large footprint or a significant price tag. For those looking to introduce a touch of smart living, devices like smart plugs and individual smart bulbs such as LIFX are a perfect choice, offering the ability to automate appliances and control lighting from a phone. In the kitchen, the trend is all about efficiency and convenience, with compact appliances like personal blenders, e.g. from Ninja or Nutribullet, and smaller air fryers proving to be highly sought-after gifts that make cooking healthier and easier. For a more personal touch, a smart mug, such as the Ember Mug, that keeps a drink at the perfect temperature, or a portable Bluetooth speaker with more functionality than just playing music, such as the Robert’s Radio Petite which lets you play music, listen to the radio and even has a built-in alarm clock feature which makes it an excellent small gift option.

This year’s most sought-after gifts are practical, innovative, and designed for a better quality of life. From smart entertainment systems to automated chores, the perfect present for tech lovers is those that make every day feel a little more effortless, providing satisfaction in the process. The subtle integration of AI is a key trend. Devices are not just responding to commands but learning routines and anticipating needs. This creates a smarter, more intuitive home experience. Whether it’s a gift that automates daily tasks or one that provides a sense of security and well-being, the best presents this Christmas are those that seamlessly enhance the modern home and the life within it.

To read the published article by Dan Todaro, Gekko Group CEO, please visit ERT

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May 14 2025
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The trends shaping outdoor dining

Warmer weather is on the way so consumers will be dining al fresco and looking for portable power and music on the move. The global market for these outdoor spaces and kitchens has already reached £19 billion globally, and customers in the UK spend an average of £10,000 on these sociable spaces. Outfitting these projects involves products from kitchen appliances through to TVs and tech, with the added bonus being that these upgrades can add between 5% to 15% to a home’s value – here we look at the latest trends.

The trends that are shaping these spaces vary but in 2025 we are seeing the following trends and products growing in the outdoor living category:

Outdoor TV’s

In 2023, the global outdoor TV market was valued at approximately £320.5 million and is projected to grow (CAGR) of 9.2% from 2024 to 2030, potentially reaching around £584.9 million by 2030. That means we are keen to explore watching our favourite sports and films in the great outdoors and the technology has advanced so much that it means reflections and sunlight are no longer an issue with some of the products available on the market, check out Sylvox for example.

With the UK’s overall television market valued at £4 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow to £6.5 billion by 2030, reflecting a CAGR of 8.24% during the forecast period, the outdoor category may only contribute less than 5% to the overall category but brands like Sylvox are growing this segment with products like the Sylvox Patio Series of  TVs which comes in a variety of screen sizes and are newly available in the UK through Euronics.

Pizza Ovens

The rise in “fakeaways,” where consumers opt for high-quality ready meals over traditional takeaways, has influenced the home pizza market, probably the easiest and most cost-effective to emulate. This trend has led to increased demand for upscale or “posh” pizzas, prompting supermarkets to offer pizzas with sophisticated ingredients and authentic Italian regional flavours to capture the growth in this fakeaway market.

One such pizza oven is Ooni, a prominent UK-based pizza oven manufacturer, which unsurprisingly experienced rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with sales surging from £57 million in 2020 to £208 million in 2021. However, in 2023, turnover declined to £157.6 million, leading the company to implement strategies aimed at returning to profitability. These include marketing to develop the category further in their favour and the opportunity for independent retail to capitalise on word of mouth.

Smart Lighting

Outdoor lighting not only creates an atmospheric mood but changes your space at the flick of a switch and in a very cost-effective manner. Globally, the outdoor lighting market is expected to grow from £11.1 billion in 2024 to £11.9 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 7.4%. This growth is attributed to innovations in smart lighting, aesthetic and architectural trends, rising demand for safety and security, and a shift towards energy-efficient solutions. It’s also a way to make your outdoor space your own nightclub, restaurant or party house on the street without ever leaving.

Advancements in LED technology and a growing emphasis on energy efficiency mean that the outdoor smart lighting market in the United Kingdom is poised for significant growth. Smart lighting has also received the AI treatment too with Philips Hue AI-Powered Lighting Assistant

Philips Hue introduces an AI-powered assistant that enables users to create personalised outdoor lighting scenes using text or voice commands, enhancing ambience and convenience.

Robot Mowers

The ability to kick back and enjoy your space whilst technology does the heavy lifting for you is great and the Segway Navimow X3 which was unveiled at CES 2025, this advanced robot mower is suitable for large areas up to 2.5 acres. It integrates with smart home systems and offers AI capabilities for efficient and precise lawn care.

There are numerous robot mowers out there, this is just one of the latest ones to come out featuring AI. When you’re trying to have the nicest-looking outdoor trim lawn and don’t have the time to mow, this is the perfect solution for keeping on top of your growing bush.

Outdoor Kitchens

The outdoor kitchen market in the United Kingdom has been experiencing significant growth, reflecting a broader trend towards enhancing outdoor living spaces. So much so that in 2021, the UK outdoor kitchen market generated approximately £737 million in revenue. Projections indicate that this figure will reach £1.6 billion by 2030, corresponding to a (CAGR) of 9% from 2022 to 2030 that means taking it outside is proving even more popular when cooking for family and friends moving to that summer kitchen on warmer days.

Like TV’s the Outdoor Projector market in the UK is experiencing notable growth, reflecting global trends in the projector industry due to innovations allowing for crystal clear images even outdoors without shade. Some notable products in this pretty much-established category are:

Anker Nebula Mars 3
Renowned for its durability and portability, the Nebula Mars 3 offers 1080p native resolution and robust built-in audio. Its rugged design makes it suitable for various outdoor environments.

Samsung The Freestyle Gen 2
This compact and versatile projector delivers high-quality visuals and is designed for easy setup, making it ideal for outdoor movie nights.

What could be better on a beautiful sunny day but to kick back, throw those shoes off, pour a drink and watch a film whilst the mowing takes care of itself and the pizza is cooking gently on the table next to your sofa, the mood lighting changing via your smart lighting solutions… It’s a British garden but not as you may know it…

To read the published article by Dan Todaro, Gekko Group CEO, please visit ERT

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Feb 05 2024
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Fast Foward – AI Will Dominate in 2024

There is one main trend that has taken the world by storm in 2023 and it will only increase and improve its presence and capabilities into 2024. This is for some, the elephant in the room….AI. Contrary to popular belief, AI has actually been around for many years but not as prevalent as it is now, its resurgence has completely changed the game. From writing entire books and songs to being implemented into consumer electronics and domestic appliances to make the products more intelligent. If you take a look at some of the big players in the market you’ll notice more and more are adopting AI, whether this is for energy-efficient washing cycles or improving picture quality on TV, the use cases are becoming less niche and more general. 

2024 will see a huge shift in focus to implementing AI into many products, some that many may find surprising and will no doubt continue to enter every category. It will be used as a selling point, in the context of productivity. As evident with Microsoft who is actively using AI (Copilot) to carry out a plethora of tasks in a matter of minutes that would otherwise be considered either time-consuming or tedious processes. Alongside this, automation will see a rise in 2024, with AI becoming more intelligent and its capabilities increasing, allowing users to automate many more processes and streamline work, in turn making them more productive in a short period of time.

Integrate this capability with artificial intelligence, which helps track patterns in your laundry, cooking, and cleaning routines. This integration allows the AI to seamlessly update the software of your connected appliances, akin to updating apps on your phone or tablet. The AI features enhance efficiency, optimising processes like a more energy-efficient wash cycle that maintains excellent cleaning results through seamless connectivity.

2024 will also see the rise in sustainable technology which we saw becoming a focus in Q4 2023. The front runners of Google and Apple making their products either out of sustainable materials or providing continuous support to their products for years to come in an effort to reduce e-waste. Gone are the days when your phone would have a 3-year life cycle before needing to be replaced.

This scrutiny on sustainability extends to every device and appliance on our person and in your home and AMDEA, I think, explains it best:

“Over the last twenty years AMDEA members have focused on design and new technologies which have dramatically and continuously reduced energy and water consumption of appliances in our homes. With 170 million essential large appliances in the 28 million homes across the UK, the technology in each machine that contributes to mitigating climate change can collectively make a major contribution to carbon neutrality”

Visit https://www.amdea.org.uk/campaigns/sustainability/ for more information

Another trend that will be sought after by many businesses rather than consumers will be cyber security. With more and more companies falling victim to cyber security breaches with countless consumer data being leaked subsequently, 2024 will be the year companies double down and invest. Research has shown that one in two businesses fall victim to a successful cyberattack in the past three years with the cost of these attacks to the industry expected to grow to over $10 trillion by the end of 2024.

In the context of the independent retailer whilst you may think that these trends do not necessarily apply to your business immediately, don’t delay to understand their importance. Generationally the relevance of sustainability is huge as will the shift to AI in the context of improved functionality, ease and sustainability.

AI is our friend, not a foe. It not only helps us magically enhance the photos we take on our smartphones, it helps us save money on our wash cycle and improve our cooking skills and so much more. Get to grips with it and understand it as you won’t be able to avoid the conversation in the context of your range, sales process and customer experience. It’s going to dominate in 2024 and that was evident from IFA and will be again at CES this coming January.

To read the published article written by Dan Todaro, Managing Director please visit ERT Online

Photo by ThisIsEngineering

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Jan 19 2024
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CES 2024 – The Weird and Wonderful

Source: IGN

Each year, CES arrives to inaugurate the year with awe-inspiring technology that leaves us amazed. Yet, amidst the spotlight, there’s also the eccentric, under-the-radar technology that captures the hearts and minds of onlookers. This blog post aims to highlight some of the peculiar and fascinating technologies featured at CES 2024.

  1. Starting off, we have one of the more unique products unveiled at this year’s CES – ‘Flappie,’ designed to prevent cats from bringing unexpected “gifts” inside. Conceived by Swiss brothers, their innovative cat flap was inspired by their mother’s challenges in deterring family cats from bringing mice into the house. The flap includes a manual locking system with a chip detection feature, ensuring it opens only for the specific owner’s microchipped pet. Additionally, it boasts internet connectivity, enabling users to operate the door and review camera footage via a smartphone app. This device operates through AI, detecting when the cat is carrying something in its mouth and withholding unlocking the cat flap until the “gift” is dropped. This groundbreaking cat flap is set to retail for £310.
 Source: Flappie
  1. Introducing the Rabbit R1, a standout product from CES 2024 that has sold out twice within just 48 hours. The Rabbit R1, measuring half the size of an iPhone 15, boasts impressive features such as 4GB of memory, 128GB of storage, and a powerful 2.3GHz MediaTek processor. Unlike traditional devices, the Rabbit R1 does not host conventional apps; instead, it operates entirely on an AI platform, specifically the Large Action Model.

    This innovative device is designed to offer users a more focused and less intrusive digital experience. Responding to voice commands, the Rabbit R1 can perform a wide range of activities, including booking rides, managing household tasks, and providing answers to queries. As an AI-centric device, it has the capability to be trained and taught to execute specific commands.

    Currently priced at £159, the Rabbit R1 redefines the user experience by combining compact design, powerful performance, and AI-driven functionality.
Source: Rabbit R1
  1. Introducing the AX Visio by Swarovski Optik. While they may resemble ordinary binoculars, these boast sophisticated internal technology. Gone are the days of lugging around wildlife identification books during your wilderness adventures. These binoculars feature an ingenious capability that lets you identify up to 9,000 species by simply observing them through the lenses. Priced at £3,820, this product caters to a niche market, likely targeting professionals or passionate wildlife enthusiasts, given its premium cost.
Source: Swarovski Optik
  1. Now, let’s explore Visage, a contender in the realm of smart door locks. Departing from the conventional models that rely on Bluetooth or phone taps, Visage elevates the experience by introducing biometric authentication and secure access. Simply allow the built-in camera to scan your face for a hands-free unlocking process. This innovative door lock supports up to 100 profiles, enabling every family member to effortlessly access the front door using facial recognition. It’s especially convenient for moments like returning from a grocery run with hands full. Lockly’s Visage is slated to hit the market this summer with a retail price of around £275.
Source: Lockly
  1. Introducing the Vasco Translator E1 – an AI earpiece paired with a connected app, seamlessly translating 49 languages in real time. Say goodbye to the struggles of inaccurate translations and clunky language apps. This innovative device eradicates language barriers, facilitating fluid conversations in real time for up to 10 participants. As the icing on the cake, enjoy free lifetime connectivity for translations wherever you go. Anticipated to launch in Q2 2024, pricing details are currently unavailable. Get ready to experience a new era of effortless communication. 
Source: Vasco Translator

Concluding our showcase of 5 Weird and Wonderful gadgets emerging from CES 2024. This year once again brought forth astonishing technology, spanning from Transparent TVs to AI Cat Flaps. Until next year!

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Jan 09 2019
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Consumers want ‘real people not robots’ from retailers

ert blog

A study launched this week by Gekko, a marketing agency, titled – ‘Service not Sci-fi’ reveals that UK shoppers would rather deal with real people not robots or artificial intelligence when it comes to shopping.

The study found that 81 per cent of UK shoppers claim the personal touch has disappeared from retail customer service in modern Britain, with almost a third (32 per cent) blaming an over reliance on technology for this decline. And half of those polled think that companies in the UK are using technology to save money, rather than improve customer experience.

Despite living in a world driven by technology, most people don’t want technology at the sacrifice of humans’ opinions and experience. Only 30 per cent said they would like to see ‘smart pricing’ initiatives adopted by retailers, where prices change in real time depending on demand, 22 per cent smart mirrors that show a 360 view of themselves, 16 per cent a virtual reality changing room, 14 per cent augmented reality to help visualise products in the home and nine per cent a talking robot assistant.

When it comes to buying online, 43 per cent of UK shoppers have had their screen freeze while trying to make a purchase, so when asked what makes a great bricks and mortar shopping experience, 49 per cent of those polled said it was down to having good staff on the shop floor, staff that know the products (49 per cent) and staff that go the extra mile (47 per cent). Coupled with this, 61 per cent of the nation would prefer to deal face-to-face when complaining, 59 per cent when enquiring or trying to find out more about a product and 73 per cent when getting a refund.

And businesses take heed – a third of Brits say that the personal touch is more likely to make a repeat purchase, and more than a fifth (22 per cent) claim they always spend more money in a shop if they are served by a good assistant, incrementally adding to sales. Over a third (34 per cent) of shoppers stated that a poor experience has driven them to buy from another retailer.

The research also highlights the impact of the decline of the local shop, with a quarter of Brits saying they miss shopping somewhere where people recognise them, 16 per cent confessing they preferred the days when they could talk through a purchase with a someone in-store, and a quarter saying online shopping is less fun than buying something in a real shop. The convenience of a store’s location is also stated as important by 43 per cent of respondents, which means that as retailers consolidate their estates, many will notice the effects, further emphasising the need to carefully consider the experience being provided in-store and the staff needed to deliver the experience.

According to the research we waste almost an hour and a half a month interacting with automated technology, only for a human to have to step in and help. In addition, 47 per cent of shoppers have experienced self-service checkout failure that’s had to be rectified by a shop assistant.

In fact, more than three quarters (77 per cent) of UK shoppers admit they’d much rather use a checkout with a person on it, rather than taking the self-service option.

Daniel Todaro, MD of Gekko, said: “Everyone is talking about technology and innovation within retail, but our research clearly shows that what consumers really want is the human touch. With traditional retail under more pressure than ever and an astonishing 81 per cent of people feeling that the personal touch has disappeared from shopping, businesses need to focus on the customer experience in these tough trading times to help keep the high street alive.”

To read the full article visit ERTonline.

To find out more about our ‘Service not Sci-fi’ research please visit our Research page.

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Dec 27 2018
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Consumers want ‘real people not robots’ from retailers

IPM Blog

A study launched by Gekko titled ‘Service not Sci-fi’, reveals that UK shoppers would rather deal with real people not robots or artificial intelligence when it comes to shopping.

The study found that 81% of UK shoppers claim the personal touch has disappeared from retail customer service in modern Britain, with almost a third (32 percent) blaming an over reliance on technology for this decline. Half of those polled think that companies in the UK are using technology to save money, rather than improve customer experience.

Despite living in a world driven by technology, most people don’t want technology at the sacrifice of humans’ opinions and experience.  Only 30 percent said they would like to see ‘smart pricing’ initiatives adopted by retailers, where prices change in real time depending on demand, 22 percent smart mirrors that show a 360 view of themselves, 16 percent a virtual reality changing room, 14 percent augmented reality to help visualise products in the home and 9 percent a talking robot assistant.

When it comes to buying online, 43 percent of UK shoppers have had their screen freeze while trying to make a purchase, so when asked what makes a great bricks and mortar shopping experience, 49 percent of those polled said it was down to having good staff on the shop floor, staff that know the products (49 percent) and staff that go the extra mile (47 percent). Coupled with this, 61 percent of the nation would prefer to deal face to face when complaining, 59 percent when enquiring or trying to find out more about a product and 73 percent when getting a refund.
And businesses take heed – a third of Brits say that the personal touch is more likely to make a repeat purchase, and more than a fifth (22 percent) claim they always spend more money in a shop if they are served by a good assistant, incrementally adding to sales. Over a third (34 percent) of shoppers stated that a poor experience has driven them to buy from another retailer.

The research also highlights the impact of the decline of the local shop, with a quarter of Brits saying they miss shopping somewhere where people recognise them, 16 per cent confessing they preferred the days when they could talk through a purchase with a someone in-store, and a quarter saying online shopping is less fun than buying something in a real shop.  The convenience of a store’s location is also stated as important by 43 per cent of respondents which means that as retailers consolidate their estates, many will notice the effects, further emphasising the need to carefully consider the experience being provided in-store and the staff needed to deliver the experience.

According to the research, we waste almost an hour and a half a month – which is 17 hours a year, the equivalent of more than two days at work – interacting with automated technology, only for a human to have to step in and help.

Bug bears include getting someone to rectify a problem with the self-service checkout, and ringing customer services and dealing with a recorded voice, only to repeat the details to the person you end up talking to.

It’s little wonder, then, that 51 percent of Brits have slammed the phone down during an automated call, as the system didn’t recognise what they were saying.  And 47 percent of shoppers have experienced self-service checkout failure that’s had to be rectified by a shop assistant.

In fact, more than three quarters (77 percent) of UK shoppers admit they’d much rather use a checkout with a person on it, rather than taking the self-service option.  More than 4 in ten (43 percent) British shoppers would rather speak to a person than an automated system when making a phone enquiry, with almost a quarter (23 percent) ending up having to complain on social media when their query hasn’t been responded to via the automated service.

Daniel Todaro, MD of Gekko said: “Everyone is talking about technology and innovation within retail, but our research clearly shows that what consumers really want is the human touch.  With traditional retail under more pressure than ever and an astonishing 81% of people feeling that the personal touch has disappeared from shopping, businesses need to focus on the customer experience in these tough trading times to help keep the high street alive.”

To read more visit IPM Bitesize.

To read the full results of our ‘Service not Sci-Fi’ research visit the Gekko Research Page.

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