Don't hold your breath for any completely brand new technologies coming out of the International Consumer Electronics Show this year, as the focus among the 3,500 vendors will be more on improving—and adding excitement to—ideas already out in the marketplace.
Think enhanced—and more fashionable—wearables, more consumer-friendly 3-D printers, drones and improved virtual reality headsets.
Everything is connected
One category that will be getting lots of attention is the Internet of Things—products that are connected to the Web.
The global market for the Internet of Things is expected to soar from $1.9 trillion in 2013 to above $7 trillion by 2020, according to the market research firm IDC.
From home appliances and cars to even a Bluetooth pacifier, there will be a lot of focus on such products.
While connected home products are nothing new, the aim for companies this year is to demonstrate how the devices can work together in a more seamless manner.
One sub-sector of this category that is already getting a lot of buzz is the smart home.
Many companies—including Honeywell, ADT and Samsung—will show off home automation products.
On Monday, Boo-Keun Yoon, chief executive of Samsung Electronics, is expected to spend most of his keynote address speaking about connected devices and smart home products.
It's worth noting that while Apple is not at CES, it has already begun working to enable the integration of third party solutions into iOS. In other words, the company is making it possible for home appliance makers and others to create products that can be controlled using an Apple device.
Big year for first-timers
Companies that haven't traditionally played in the tech space will also be making a first appearance at CES.
With wearables becoming more high-fashion, a number of new brands will be announcing products and partnerships, much like how Intel announced it's partnership with the fashion house Opening Ceremony for its MICA smart bracelet last year at CES.
Brands including Adidas, New Balance and L'Oreal will also be in attendance as new members of the Consumer Electronic Association.