CES 2014 must-read news: the best of day one

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As the first day of CES 2014 winds down, we take a look at some of the biggest stories coming out of tech’s biggest show.

The Pebble Steel: a smarter-looking smartwatch

Pebble responds to criticism of its somewhat plasticky smartwatch by unveiling a new one constructed of glorious metal. Brushed stainless steel and matte black options will be available.

With 4K, OLED, a curved screen and ultra hi-def Netflix streaming, it just might be.

PrioVR teams up with Oculus Rift to offer the ultimate virtual reality gaming experience

A full body suit AND the world’s best VR goggles? It’s quite simply gaming nirvana – and you’re invited!

Withings Aura will put you to sleep in style

Home health-tech maker Withings’ big CES reveal is Aura, a “smart sleep system” that combines light and sound – plus a sensor pad that fits under your mattress – to regulate your body’s melatonin levels and lull you off to sleep and wake you up in the best way possible. It also works as a speaker and alarm clock, and works in combination with other Withings products through the company’s smartphone app. It’s out in the spring and will cost around US$299 (£180).

Gorilla Glass goes germ-free

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egU8GLD7MG8

Gorilla Glass maker Corning has unveiled “the world’s first antimicrobial glass”, a variant of the ubiquitous toughened cover glass that’ll keep a phone or tablet free from a build-up of germs and other nasty things. The dream of being able to lick your smartphone is finally within reach!

Asus Transformer Book Duet TD300 switches seamlessly between Windows and Android

Asus has unveiled a new ultrabook-tablet hybrid that can switch instantly between Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and Windows 8.1 at the touch of a button. The Transformer Book Duet TD300 features a full HD screen, Intel Core i7 processor and 1TB of storage in the laptop section (plus 126GB in the 13in tablet). It’ll be available for US$599 (£365).

Hi-Res Audio looks set to be a big trend at CES 2014, and high-end music player maker Astell & Kern looks right on the money with its AK240. The iPod-sized player rocks no less than 256GB of built-in storage (plus support for up to 64GB more via microSD card) and full support for all major Hi-Res Audio formats, including DSD, without any playback lag. It’s expected in the first quarter of 2014, with no price info available as yet.

Valve’s Steam Machines revealed in all their glory

Valve has lifted the curtains off the initial roster of manufacturer’s Steam Machines. The difference in sizes and shapes is vast, but one thing’s for sure – we can’t wait to take them for a spin.

Sony Xperia Z1 compact gets the hands-on treatment

Son’y mini-but-powerful Z1 is real, and we’ve got a hands-on review to prove it. With a 4.3in screen and the same high-end specs as the full-sized 5in Z1, it’s the perfect choice for small-handed Android fans that don’t want to compromise on power.

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Tech journalism's answer to The Littlest Hobo, I've written for a host of titles and lived in three different countries in my 15 years-plus as a freelancer. But I've always come back home to Stuff eventually, where I specialise in writing about cameras, streaming services and being tragically addicted to Destiny.