Virtual assistants and IoT devices a major focus at CES 2016

Voice-activated assistants and their integration with IoT connected devices were a major focus of CES 2016. Indeed, Samsung coined a new phrase to describe productivity, activity and connectivity: “IoTivity". Despite initial technological glitches when demonstrating Cortana, Microsoft’s voice-activated assistant and Samsung’s IoT connected devices platform, the voice-driven virtual assistant market has come forward in ‘leaps and bounds over the past year,’ according to Gartner research VP, Steve Kleynhans, and eventually they will become pro-active, giving advice and information that is relevant to the individual. His top pick, however, is IBM’s Watson, which, in addition to its convenient, smart home functions, is also partnering with healthcare providers to aid in disease prevention and personal fitness. 

"Hey Cortana​," Microsoft marketing manager Bryan Roper said, addressing the newly unveiled Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro S tablet device, which runs the Windows 10 operating system.

Las Vegas: It's the kind of moment every technology executive dreads.

An immediate, deadly silence hung in the packed auditorium, which was full with hundreds watching the Samsung Electronics keynote at CES 2016, the world's biggest consumer electronics convention.

CES 2016 is the world's biggest consumer electronics convention.

"Alright ... let's try that one more time," said Roper, the sweat almost palpable.

Roper was demonstrating Cortana, Microsoft's personal, voice-activated assistant, and its integration with Samsung's "Internet of Things" connected devices platform.

Tech powerhouses from Samsung to LG to smaller, less well-known brands unveiled clever fridges, washing machines and dishwashers.