100 Ideas in Consumer Electronics
The ideas, projects and concepts that are shaping the future form of gadgets.
Our latest report identifies the deeper, less-obvious trends reshaping the consumer electronics landscape, moving beyond the generic AI-generated lists anyone can quickly pull from ChatGPT. At PSFK, we believe true inspiration comes from exploring original thinking and authentic design nuances, rather than following predictable AI-buzzwords like "Circular," "Minimalist," or… wait for it… "Futuristic." This report (and newsletter!) highlights thoughtfully selected, genuinely innovative ideas that reveal meaningful shifts in product design, materials, and consumer interactions.
Report Overview
Available as a download today, our new report provides over 100 unique consumer electronics ideas, concepts, and innovations organized around emerging themes. With case studies sourced from global innovators, design students, and tech brands, our analysis emphasizes practical inspiration and actionable insights—perfect for design teams seeking a fresh perspective or any creative leader looking to differentiate their products through exceptional design. Our 155-page download also includes multiple color schemes, 16 AI prompts and AI Seeds (Google ImageFX) for you to create your own moodboards inspired by the research.
So… What Are The Big Themes In CE?
So, based on our human-first research, here are the key themes what we used to structure the report, 100 Ideas in Consumer Electronics:
Personal Lighting
Our first theme encompasses portable, multifunctional lighting solutions designed for seamless transition across diverse environments, from indoor spaces to outdoor adventures. In our research, we uncovered lighting concepts offer not just illumination, but integrated features such as charging stations, adaptable forms, and sensory enhancements, making them essential companions in modern lifestyles.
View all Personal Lighting ideas by downloading our report.
Hideaways
This theme explores foldable designs that maximize portability and convenience through compact, collapsible, or discreet integration. These clever designs enable practical everyday tools to be easily stored, hidden, or carried, aligning seamlessly with contemporary lifestyles where space efficiency and mobility are well valued.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Smart Knobs
Despite the growth of voice and other smart interactions increasingly dominate consumer electronics, tactile control remains intuitively appealing. The Smart Knob section theme emphasizes the resurgence of rotary knobs and dials as central interaction points for modern technology. Combining precision, nostalgia, and ease of use, these knob-based interfaces enhance user experiences by merging intuitive physical control with digital capabilities.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Detachables
Detachable electronics are devices composed of multiple components that can be easily separated and used independently or together. Rather than rigid, all-in-one designs, these products allow users to remove elements such as cameras, earbuds, or power sources, offering greater portability, adaptability, and personalization.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Bold & Irreverent
The electronics included in this theme have vibrant, irreverent, and punk-inspired design aesthetics. Moving away from minimalist neutrality, these products (typically audio equipment, particularly speakers) embrace bold colors, eclectic patterns, and customizable elements, turning everyday audio devices into standout pieces that express personal style, creativity, and rebellion against traditional electronics aesthetics.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Pixelated
This theme shows examples that embrace nostalgia by merging retro aesthetics with modern digital functionality. These devices leverage low-resolution, pixel-based visual displays to create engaging, playful, and interactive user experiences. Often used in wearable tech and interactive art, this theme reflects a desire for simplified visual storytelling.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Electronic Paper
Hey - if we can have retro-pixels, we can have e-ink right?? Electronic paper devices represent a return to minimalist technology, combining digital convenience with the visual simplicity of paper. Utilizing low-power e-ink displays, these devices significantly reduce eye strain and enhance battery life, providing a calm, focused alternative to traditional screens.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Self-Powered
The Self-Powered Electronics theme highlights innovations that leverage renewable energy or unconventional power sources to operate independently of traditional batteries. These devices promote sustainability, reduce environmental impact, and offer novel user experiences by tapping into alternative, readily available energy sources.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Single Block
Although not a new-new idea, more electronic producers are creating sustainable electronics crafted from single blocks of material such as aluminum, reducing complexity, enhancing durability, and promoting recyclability. Reflecting growing ecological awareness, the examples in this theme combine sleek aesthetics with environmental responsibility, resulting in minimalistic yet functional gadgets.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Proximity Aware
While this theme has less directly to do with form that the others in the report, the trend behind it will have a major impact the way our gadgets will look, function and interact. Advancements in connected technology driven by Apple and Google will allow devices to recognize and communicate seamlessly with each other when in close proximity, reshaping interactions and driving innovations in home automation, connectivity, and wearable tech.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Visualization
Innovative data visualization transforms complex data sets into visually engaging and tangible experiences, enhancing accessibility and comprehension. The ideas in this part of the report encompasses analog and digital methods, highlighting creative and interactive ways to present data.
View all ideas in this section by downloading our report.
Orb Interface
