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"Technology can move along at such a frenetic pace it can be dizzying! Amidst the marketing noise are lots of gimmicks, but thankfully, also true innovations that change the way we live for the better. Each year, our VIP Awards recognize a handful of products that are both truly novel and extremely practical -the Kindle (2009) changed the way we read books forever, the Wii Fit Board (2009) transformed video games into family exercises, and the GE Hybrid CFL light bulb (2012) helps us save energy at home without the downsides of traditional CFLs. This year the Consumer Electronics and Engineering Lab found four outstanding products worthy of being recognized as VIP&amp;#039;s (Very Innovative Products).  Honda Lane Watch Exclusive to Honda vehicles, Honda Lane Watch is a blind-spot monitoring display. Using a camera mounted on the passenger side-view mirror, it allows the driver to use the center console display to identify vehicles in her blind spot through real-time video. Unlike comparable systems, it provides a live-time feed and never issues false warnings. We first previewed the system in September and knew immediately it was out of the ordinary. Later on, we test drove a Honda Accord in and around Manhattan, including on highways, busy city streets, and parking areas to make sure the system&amp;#039;s easy to activate, isn&amp;#039;t distracting, and provides adequate blind spot assistance.  Mr. Beam Emergency Lighting ($60+) The Mr. Beam ReadyBright intelligent power outage lighting system is the first emergency lighting system designed for the home. The basic starter system includes a power outage detector, stair/path light, and ceiling light. Plug the detector into any wall outlet, and it senses if the outlet has power. As soon as the power goes out, the detector lights up and sends a radio signal that activates any other wireless LED lights connected to the system in your home within range (70 feet, though with obstructions it may vary). You can add to the starter kit depending on your needs. Mr. Beam Emergency Lighting was tested in the lab and consumer homes to make sure it would operate as promised in a real-life situation. What we love about it most is that it offers peace of mind. It&amp;#039;s convenient, moderately priced, and you don&amp;#039;t need any electrical smarts to get it up and running. No more searching for your flashlight! The second power goes out, Mr. Beam comes on.  Microsoft Surface RT ($499+) When Microsoft first announced it was entering the hardware game with a hybrid tablet, needless to say, we were excited. While the iPad was a monster game-changer, the Surface provides an unparalleled level of productivity which you could only get from a software company. With an integrated kickstand, intelligent keyboard (extra $100), well-outfitted ports (full-size USB!), and Office pre-installed, it impressively allows you to not only access consumer content, but also to connect, collaborate, and create. We ran our normal battery of tablet and PC tests on the Surface, and had consumers evaluate the new Windows 8 ecosystem. We found it&amp;#039;s not only sleek, but smart too!  Samsung Smart TV ($2350 for 55&amp;quot;) More natural human interaction is a growing trend in consumer electronics, and Samsung was ahead of the curve with its gesture and voice controlled TV. While we had previously seen motion-controlled remotes for TVs or remotes with integrated keypads or touchpads, this was the first television that integrated voice and gesture-control. In addition to our typical TV testing TVs including picture and audio quality and ease of navigation, we checked out the gesture and voice controls. What we found: With a little bit of practice, the Samsung Smart TV can become more natural.  Check out this video for a behind-the- scenes look at Anderson Cooper at GHRI, testing out this year&amp;#039;s VIP Award winners And for some of the other labs&amp;#039; great picks, like the automatic curling iron by Sarah Potempa called the Beachwaver, be sure to read our other Inside the Institute blogs! "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
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