Klemchuk LLP Announces Best New Innovations of 2016
As the end of the year is fast-approaching, it is worthwhile to reflect on some of the most memorable and significant innovations. The following is our list of the best new innovations for 2016. From online real estate advances to communication across the globe, this year has been a great one.
List of Best New Innovations 0f 2016
Below, we are proud to announce what we believe to be the best new innovations of 2016:
Skype International Translator
Imagine being able to break down language barriers in a matter of a few clicks? Now it is possible, thanks to Skype’s new artificial-intelligence-based translator. Just after someone stops speaking, “an audio translation is already playing while a text transcript of the translation displays within the Skype app.” See this account of the new technology by Popular Science. Beyond that, the program gets “smarter” over time; the more exposure to various accents and dialects, the more “fluent” it becomes.
“Artificial Pancreas” – Minimed 670g
Imagine a device not much bigger than an iPod that could measure blood sugar every 5 minutes and deliver insulin to adjust it accordingly – it is now possible with the Minimed 670g, a.k.a. the “artificial pancreas.” The device, which just recently earned FDA approval, has revolutionized the lifestyle of those who suffer from diabetes. The makers of Minimed proudly affirm that their “…vision is to transform diabetes care together, for greater freedom and better health.” Learn more about the device here.
Apple Airpods
Apple never fails to bring something new and cutting-edge to the table. Although customers may have been up in arms when the company announced that the “iPhone 7 would not have a headphone jack… it also previewed a compelling alternative” in the form of the Airpods. The new technology pairs automatically with your device and pauses music when you remove one during a conversation.
OpenDoor
Looking to put your home on the market, or starting your search for your next home? Look no further than your smartphone. The new app, OpenDoor, launched in February 2016 in the DFW area. The new online real estate marketplace allows you to sell your home online, as well as conduct a search for a new home on your own time, allowing for self-guided showings all the way up to making an offer. “OpenDoor was recently recognized by Inman as the most innovative real estate company.” Check it out here.
Bakeys Edible Cutlery
Being conscious of the impact we have on our environment should always be top of mind. Bakeys, an Indian cutlery company, has come up with a sustainable and delicious alternative to plastic utensils “as a way to tackle plastic waste.” Their products are vegan-friendly and are made of “rice, wheat, and an ancient grain called sorghum” and come in sweet, savory, and plain flavors.
Rapid Zika Test
Zika scares were abound in 2016, and not surprisingly, the demand for better diagnostic technology to detect the virus became a top priority. Many people had to wait several agonizing days to find out whether they were infected, if they had access to care or funds to do so. Researchers at MIT wanted to do something about this, and so they created another method that “…gets results within three hours. When exposed to a Zika-containing blood sample, yellow dots on paper turn purple.” Researchers believe this test would be less costly and may also allow for diagnosis of other diseases.
Interested in more Best New Innovations? Check out our picks for Best New Innovations 2014, Best New Innovations 2015, and Best New Innovations 2017
Innovator, Conversations with Innovators
About the Firm:
Klemchuk LLP is a litigation, intellectual property, transactional, and international business law firm dedicated to protecting innovation. The firm provides tailored legal solutions to industries including software, technology, retail, real estate, consumer goods, ecommerce, telecommunications, restaurant, energy, media, and professional services. The firm focuses on serving mid-market companies seeking long-term, value-added relationships with a law firm. Learn more about experiencing law practiced differently and our local counsel practice.
The firm publishes Intellectual Property Trends (latest developments in IP law), Conversations with Innovators (interviews with thought leaders), Leaders in Law (insights from law leaders), Culture Counts (thoughts on law firm culture and business), and Legal Insights (in-depth analysis of IP, litigation, transactional, and international law).
Sources:
https://www.popsci.com/how-microsofts-machine-learning-breaking-language-barrier
https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/blog/introducing-the-minimed-670g-system
http://time.com/4572079/best-inventions-2016/
https://www.popsci.com/12-greatest-health-innovations-year#page-10