Pavegen is capturing the kinetic power inherent in human footsteps to create electricity.

Researchers have created a Smartphone attachable microscope that can be cheaply mass produced.  The 3D-printed device plugs in to a smartphone and records images at the same quality as a traditional microscope.  The hope is that doctors in rural and underdeveloped areas can run diagnostic tests themselves rather than having to send samples out to a lab for testing; a process which is time-consuming and often cost-prohibitive.

Read more about it here.

Out going Chairman of the FCC Tom Wheeler gave his last speech today and he spoke about the importance of Net Neutrality and the threat the new administration may bring. He stressed the positive outcomes that have come to pass since the law was established in 2015 and the importance of consumer privacy.  He further stated that investment in broadband and internet services has risen in the last 2 years, refuting the claim that it would actually hurt commerce in this area.  Wheeler traveled a long and difficult road to the enactment of the Open Internet Order and  urges those who come after to keep moving forward in defense of Net Neutrality.

Read more about his speech:

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Variety

CES kicked off it's 50th event today in Las Vegas with the largest exhibit floor they have ever had, new marketplaces, multiple keynote addresses, expanded programming and a host of enhanced services.  There is a big focus on Smart Home, Smart Energy, and Sleep Tech solutions as well as a record 600 startup companies in the Eureka Park Marketplace.  Innovations in sports technology are bringing together big names like Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Joe Montana and Michael Phelps to participate in panels and sessions.  There is so much going on I can't possibly cover it all.  Check it out for yourself on the CES website here, or read some of the early news reports and reviews on the sites listed below.

The Verge has a roundup of the best...