The Internationale Funkausstellung (IFA) is set to dazzle Berlin once again. Europe’s leading technology showcase is scheduled for September 6-10, 2024, at the sprawling Messe Berlin Exhibition Grounds. This annual extravaganza continues to be a cornerstone event for tech lovers and industry leaders. With attendance figures regularly surpassing 150,000, this grand affar offers companies a platform to display their current innovations and tease upcoming products.
From its humble beginnings in 1924 as a radio exhibition, IFA has transformed into a global stage for technological marvels. Over the decades, it has witnessed and showcased pivotal moments in tech history, from the debut of color television and introduction of cassette tapes, to the unveiling of revolutionary smartphones. Today, IFA serves as a crystal ball for the tech world, offering glimpses into innovations that will shape our future.
From wearables to wonders
For companies specializing in wearable technology, IFA is more than just an exhibition; it’s a crucible of innovation. This is where the latest in smart watches, fitness trackers smart rings and augmented reality glasses take center stage, captivating audiences and setting new benchmarks for the industry. The significance of IFA for these tech pioneers cannot be overstated, as it provides a unique platform to showcase their latest advancements, gather crucial feedback, and gauge market trends.
Essential reading:Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
The wearable tech sector, once considered a niche segment, has now become an integral part of our daily lives. From devices that monitor our health in real-time to smart fabrics that adapt to our environment, the possibilities seem endless. At IFA, these groundbreaking technologies converge, creating an atmosphere electric with potential. It’s a place where collaborations are born, where visionaries meet investors, and where the next technological revolution might just be unveiled. As we gear up for this year’s event, one thing is certain: the wearable tech world will be watching, and the future will be on full display.
We will, of course, be on the ground in Berlin to report on all the news.Last year we witnesseda number of interesting launches.This year should be no less exciting. As usual, Apple will not be there but many others will.
Here is what to expect.
IFA 2024: Wearable tech exhibitors
Fitbit
Fitbit has remained notably silent this year, especially in terms of hardware. All we saw was the debut of the latest edition in the Ace series. The lack of updates is likely due to the ongoing consolidation after its merger with Google. We know that the search giant plans to unveil the Pixel Watch 3, possibly in mid-August. If this occurs the device will be on show in Berlin.
It will be interesting to see where things go from here. Will we get a Sense 3, Versa 4 or Luxe 3 from Fitbit at IFA in Berlin? Any of these would be nice. The company is set to participate in the Berlin event once more, though what they’ll present remains a mystery.
Garmin
Garmin has been a regular at IFA over the years. And it always had something new to show. Last year it revealed the Venu 3 a few days before the gathering. The year before that, we saw Venu Sq 2.
In 2024, things might get a bit more exciting. A few leaks have popped up around the Fenix 8 and it seems the series might arrive in time for IFA. Rumoured is also something called Fenix 8 E. The talk is that the regular variant will come with an AMOLED display, which will spell the end of the separate Epix line. While the E variant will come packing the MIP screen. Whether it serves as a replacement to the “E”nduro line or on its own remains as an “E”conomy version to be seen. Of course, for now these are all rumours and nothing has been confirmed by the company.
A distinct possiblity is also the Instinct 3. That one is due to be upgraded – the only question is will it be around IFA-time, or later in the year. We’ve also had one leak about a month ago on that watch.
We are not 100% sure that the company will attend IFA this year as it is currently not on the list. However, with a month to go this could change.
Samsung
Then we come to Samsung. It always has a large hall that it occupies by itself in Berlin. Everything from the latest TVs, to robot vacuums and washing machines can be seen there. Along with a few wearable tech products.
No mystery on that end. The Galaxy Watch 7 series was unveiled a couple of weeks ago, and the company will be proudly displaying abilities of the new watches. Particularly the Ultra. And let’s not forget Samsung’s entry in the smart ring space. It recently launched the Galaxy Ring, and that one should be on display as well at the gathering.
Zepp Health
Zepp Health is another familiar face at Europe’s tech spectacle. In 2023, their star was the Balance watch. This is probably their most feature-packed device to date.
We are yet to learn what Zepp Health will be showcasing this year. Perhaps the GT5 line? Or maybe something else. No doubt, they will have something new to show. We have received a teaser-invite, however, no specifics were mentioned.
It’s worth pointing out, the company will not actually have a stand at IFA. But they will have a separate event organised a mere 5 minute walk from the Messe Berlin Exhibition Grounds.
Withings
Withings, on the other hand, has confirmed they will have a display at IFA. Last year they debuted the ScanWatch 2 – you can check out our full hands-on review of the device. The timepiece ticks most boxes if you are after a stylish and feature packed hybrid watch. However, little has dropped from the French outfit in terms of hardware in the past 12 months.
Having said that, the company did tease the arrival of BeamO. This is a Star-Trek like device that is capable of 4 in 1 measurements in just a few seconds. This includes body temperature, heart and lung health. Interestingly, the gadget was recently registered with the FCC in the US. So don’t be surprised if Withings announces its retail availability at IFA.
Others
Other names we are expecting include Mobvoi. Last year they debuted TicWatch Pro 5 in Berlin. Huawei and Honor will also be there with their latest gadgets.
Beyond those, there will be many other companies showcasing trackers for sports, outdoor activities and sleeping, along with smartwatches, smart clothes, smart helmets and much more. You can find a full list by clicking onthis link.
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