Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
Fido's got something to say about Baidu's cross-species translator
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May 9, 2025
Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
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Today's Digital Pulse
Toyota plans EV with solid-state battery, 745-mile range
(Bloomberg/Getty Images)
Toyota plans to introduce an electric vehicle with a solid-state battery by 2027, offering a range of up to 745 miles, a recharge time of under 10 minutes and a lifespan of 30 years. The automaker is partnering with Idemitsu Kosan on the technology, which is intended to slash tailpipe emissions.
Full Story: Forbes (tiered subscription model) (5/8) 
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Smart Home
Samsung has introduced the Samsung Television Network, a free ad-supported streaming channel, which will aggregate content from Samsung TV Plus, including exclusive shows and live events, aiming to mimic traditional TV programming by curating content based on time of day. Samsung has also announced a partnership with Spotify to bring video podcasts to Samsung TV Plus and a new interactive ad format called ShoppingBreaks that allows viewers to make purchases directly from their TVs.
Full Story: StreamTV Insider (5/6) 
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Vehicle Tech
Los Angeles-based DartSolar has introduced a 1,000-watt solar roof rack that can extend an electric vehicle's range by up to 20 miles per day. A 2,000-watt version, expected by 2027, aims to provide around 40 miles. The rack, priced at $1,950, doubles as a traditional roof rack and utilizes CNC machining and 3D printing for cost-effective production.
Full Story: American Society of Mechanical Engineers (4/28) 
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Tech News
Baidu files patent for AI cross-species translator
Fido: "Like your guitar, you're out of tune" (Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images)
Baidu has filed a patent for a system that uses AI to translate animal sounds into human language by analyzing vocalizations, behavior and physiological signals. The technology aims to improve cross-species communication by providing insights into pets' emotional states.
Full Story: Digital Trends (5/8) 
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Retail Trends
Affirm has teamed up with Costco Wholesale to provide a buy now, pay later service for online shoppers, allowing approved shoppers to choose monthly payment plans for purchases on Costco's website. Consumer spending is increasingly shifting toward BNPL services amid high interest rates and economic uncertainty.
Full Story: Bloomberg (5/8),  PYMNTS (5/8) 
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Association News
Imagine waking up to a tranquil beach sunrise or working your 9 to 5 with views of Venice. LiquidView windows delivers paradise without the trip. CES host Justine (iJustine) Ezarik sits down with Mitch Braff from LiquidView to dive into their innovative digital windows.
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Join us Monday, May 12 at 12 p.m. ET for a CTA Virtual Roundtable to explore how standardizing health technologies can improve outcomes in women's health. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear diverse perspectives, ask questions and contribute to a dialogue focused on addressing the unique health challenges women face and how innovation and collaboration can help meet those needs. Register today -- for CTA members only.
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CES is the most powerful tech event in the world -- the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. CES 2026 takes place Jan. 6-9, 2026, in Las Vegas. Sign up now to stay in the loop and be the first to know when registration opens.
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SmartBreak
Which US president signed a proclamation on May 9 (no year, or you might guess) declaring the first national Mother's Day celebration?
VoteCalvin Coolidge
VoteHerbert Hoover
VoteWilliam McKinley
VoteWoodrow Wilson