From AI-powered X-rays to floating kitchen displays, here’s what’s shaping the future.
The CES Innovation Awards have always been a barometer of the future. But among the hundreds of products that get recognized, the Best of Innovation Awards represent the absolute pinnacle — the technologies that define the bleeding edge.
In 2025, 34 winners were named across a wide range of categories, from healthcare to home entertainment.
Here’s a look at the first 16 winners that caught our attention — and why they matter.
The world’s first battery-powered portable X-ray keeps getting better. The new model blends intuitive camera-style design with AI-driven diagnostics, enabling rapid and safe medical imaging anywhere — especially in emergency or mobility-limited situations.
→ Key highlight: Mobile phone image access + low-dose radiation + AI-assisted reads.
A hybrid underwater communication and respiratory system that’s redefining ocean exploration. It’s the first connected dive experience that brings monitoring, safety, and communication underwater.
→ Why it matters: More accessible, safe ocean experiences could spark a new wave of marine interest and conservation.
A robotic above-knee prosthesis that merges function and form. With electric motors and sensors replicating natural gait, it’s not just a mobility device — it’s a confidence booster, recently winning the Red Dot Luminary Award.
→ Human-first design: Think muscle-expressive calves and sleek carbon fiber aesthetic.
An AI-powered reading platform for everyone, including kids, adults, and those with reading difficulties. It uses immersive sounds, visuals, and adaptive UX to transform how we experience books.
→ Standout feature: Easy-reading mode for neurodivergent users.
A non-invasive thermal core monitor made for elite athletes. It’s 48% smaller and 30% lighter than its predecessor — perfect for high-performance scenarios.
→ Bonus: Real-time heat stress tracking + BLE/Garmin/Wahoo integration.
Robot vacuum meets stick vacuum — and they’re the same device. Switch modes seamlessly to clean both big messes and little ones, instantly.
→ Key differentiator: Dual-mode operation without sacrificing power or portability.
Cleans water — even wastewater — without chemicals, filters, or membranes. Using low-voltage electro-permeation and hydroxyl radical tech, this device is already being hailed as one of the most advanced purification systems on Earth.
→ Why it's game-changing: It’s clean tech that’s truly clean.
Samsung's Buds3 Pro isn't just about sound anymore. Thanks to Galaxy AI, these earbuds can now offer real-time translation — even without a screen.
→ Smartest earbuds ever? Personalized audio + AI-enhanced calls + cross-device magic.
The world’s first completely wireless DJ controller. No cables. No plugs. Just Bluetooth 4.0, internal battery, and freedom.
→ Perfect for: Street performers, pop-up sets, or casual DJs on the go.
An interactive display that hovers above your countertop — touchable, voice-activated, and completely smudge-free. Integrated with SmartThings for seamless smart home control.
→ Looks like sci-fi, functions like a sous-chef.
A lensless camera embedded invisibly into surfaces using holographic optics. Capture without the bump.
→ Why it’s disruptive: Makes bezel-less, design-forward devices truly possible.
Think of it as a glucose meter for hormones — but saliva-based and real-time. The first consumer-grade hormone tracker lets you scan and read cortisol or progesterone levels via app.
→ Healthcare meets home care: Affordable hormone health at your fingertips.
A world-first material scanner that captures and renders real-world textures into digital assets. Perfect for architects, fashion designers, or game developers.
→ Backed by: NVIDIA Jetson AGX + HP SDK + Adobe Substance integration.
The world’s first outdoor exoskeleton. Designed to help hikers, workers, and explorers move farther with less effort.
→ Tech specs: 800W motor assist + 10 smart assist modes + AI motion engine.
A satellite-powered communicator that lets you send messages and SOS calls when totally off-grid. Includes group messaging, voice clips, and even phone charging support.
→ Made for: Extreme adventure, solo hikers, or disaster readiness.
A compact, fuel-or-electric powered robot designed to transport cargo across rough terrain. Self-leveling deck, 240kg capacity, and both remote or onboard controls.
→ Built for: Agriculture, construction, and rugged logistics.