The Watch List: The product launches we’re most anticipating in 2024
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CNN Underscored editors have a front seat when it comes to product news and launches. While we often highlight them on our website through testing, reviews and announcement articles, we also get the inside scoop about what’s coming sometimes weeks or months in advance — and the news is too good to keep to ourselves. Thus, we’ve compiled The Watch List for the second year in a row so we can spread the word about our favorite upcoming product launches (and you can plan your budget accordingly).
What you see below are the best of a pool of more than 50 launches coming up in 2024. Each one of these stands out for something special: artisan-level quality, incredible tech or just straight-up genius innovation. They’re also from a selection of go-to brands that we editors love — and our readers do too. Not only do we believe that the below are worth your money, but some of them might even be a little life-changing.
Read on, get your calendar alert set for the launch dates you love, then shop each and every product right here as they go live. 2024’s starting off strong too — a handful are shoppable now and shipping soon.
Allbirds Tree Runner Go
Launch date: May 2024
Price: $118
Allbirds is adding to its family of merino wool- and Tencel-based shoes with the May launch of the Tree Runner Go. Perfect for wearing while walking or running errands in warmer weather, the breathable uppers keep your feet cool while the midsole has been redesigned with a little more foam cushioning than the existing Tree Runner model so you stay comfy all day. There are plenty of recycled elements in these shoes too, including shoelaces spun from recycled plastic bottles and a midsole made from sugarcane-derived foam.
Allbirds Men’s Tree Loungers
These slip-ons come with super-breathable uppers spun from eucalyptus tree fiber. They serve up a ton of support and look good with everything, making them an easy, all-day choice.
Allbirds Men’s Anytime Soft Merino Long-Sleeve Tee
This long-sleeve tee is fantastic if you’re going on a trail run or just running to the grocery store. The wool is never thick — just insulating for chillier days while still being breathable.
Allbirds Women’s Tree Breezers
These sweet ballet flats are magic for summer, thanks to their eucalyptus construction, solving the problem of slightly stinky feet after a day encased in leather.
Owala FreeSip Twist
Launch date: February 2024
Price: From $25
Owala’s famous insulated bottle — one of Time’s Best Inventions of 2023 — is getting a new design, with the addition of the FreeSip Twist, which combines a classic twist cap over the well-known sip-style lid, giving those who don’t love flip-top sippers a new option. Or, unscrew the cap and sip-lid (they’ll come off together) all the way so you can take a larger swig straight from the bottle. The new lid also boasts a carry loop for easy on-the-go toting. Available in 18- and 24-ounce sizes, the FreeSip Twist, like its predecessor, is triple insulated so you can keep cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, plus it can handle hot and carbonated beverages. It’s also cup holder-friendly, and the slim shape is perfect for a purse or backpack. And it wouldn’t be Owala without some eye-catching color options: colorblocked Sunny Days, Neo Sage, Rainstorm, Rock On and Sleepy Lavender are all on deck when the bottles begin shipping out in early February.
Owala 40-Ounce Tumbler
This looks suspiciously like another tumbler we see all over the place, but the colorblocking here gives the vessel a little bit of a twist. Choose between sip or swig when you go to rehydrate, thanks to a lid that comes with options.
Owala Kids’ Stainless Steel Flip
The one-handed straw on this bottle makes it easy for kids to use, and the lid locks so spills don’t flood your kid’s backpack.
Owala SmoothSip
This mug keeps your iced coffee cold for 24 hours and your latte warm for six, giving you plenty of time to catch up on your caffeine intake over the morning. The splash-resistant lid helps keep liquids in if you hit a bump in the road too.
Owala Towel & FreeSip Bundle
Made to catch your eyes as you dash out the door to yoga, this towel and FreeSip bundle is perfect for workouts and more. The now-famous bottle has both a straw for sipping and a larger opening for huge, between-vinyasas gulps that fits your mouth. And it’s leakproof too.
Plufl Hugl Cooling Body Pillow
Launch date: January 2024
Price: $199 $169
Plufl, maker of scaled-up dog beds for humans who love to sprawl out, is coming out with a new take on those famously comfy-looking maternity pillows. After all, you don’t have to be pregnant to enjoy (or covet) a long, U-shaped pillow, and the new Hugl upgrades the experience with a bamboo-based fabric that cools as you cuddle up to it, memory foam that keeps you supported and a machine-washable cover. It’s one of Kickstarter’s success stories: The Hugl achieved full funding in just 30 minutes and brought in more than 14 times the original funding goal.
Plufl Human Dog Bed
The “dog bed for humans,” this egg-shaped not-quite-beanbag is here to help you sprawl out for movie night and catch some shut-eye between WFH meetings. Pillow bolsters cradle your head and neck, so all you need to do is plop down and let its softness carry you off to sleep.
Oru Camp Collection
Launch date: January 2024
Price: From $99
You might know Oru from its origami-inspired line of collapsible, chicly transparent kayaks (yes, that’s “chic” and “kayak” in the same sentence), but the brand has taken its foldable superpower and applied it in an entirely different way. Enter the Camp collection, which uses the same folding principles for a collection of lightweight camping furniture that can easily be put up and taken down — minimal storage space and effort required (hey, tents are difficult enough). Buy the whole setup for $805, or pick up the pieces individually. There’s the $225 SwitchTable for food prep and dining that can also convert in height into a two-seater bench, plus the $99 FlipCube, which can work as a stool, footrest or side table and weighs in at under 5 pounds. Finally, there’s the $189 PopLounge, which gives tired hikers a solid spot to rest (and there’s extra storage room in the seat too, giving the about-7-pound chair a bit of grounding on very windy days). The orange colorway is officially available to order now, while the black colorway is coming at the end of February.
Oru Inlet
Get going on the water with this beginner-friendly, entry-level kayak. You can choose from black, clear, pink trimmed or a pretty fireworks pattern. It weighs just 20 pounds, making it easy to carry down to the water and back up to the car.
Oru Camera Mount
Make a film from your watery adventures with this camera mount that lets you capture wonderful moments — and leave your usual tripod safely at home.
Oru Lake Sport
This 18-pound kayak is here for lazy weekend paddles on your favorite reservoir or lake. It just got more comfy, thanks to the addition of an adjustable backrest and footrest, plus a seat designed for Oru’s add-on cushions.
Oru Neoprene Spray Skirt
This spray skirt keeps the water out of the boat (and off you) when the going gets choppy, thanks to a breathable neoprene construction and hugging fit.
Thule Allax Car Pet Crate
Launch date: Fall 2024
Price: From $749
Thule is known for products that allow you to tote your gear in style, whether it’s top-of-car storage for vacations; behind-the-bike carts for kids, dogs and errands; or a classic duffel bag for your weekend adventures. Soon, the brand will be branching out into pet transportation with the launch of the Allax crate, which starts at $749. The crate is meant to be placed inside your car’s hatch space and is made from aluminum and steel for keeping your four-legged friend safe. Just in case the worst happens and there’s a collision, the Allax has an escape hatch at the rear that allows your pet to be safely removed from the crate if the front isn’t able to open. A ton of ventilation is built into the sides for warmer days and panting pets, and it even comes with a lockable front door for keeping Fido extra secure.
Thule Courier
Consider this the hatchback section of your bike. Big enough for two kids, a dog or the fruits of your city errand-running, this carrier does it all, also converting into a stroller or a cargo trailer.
Thule WingBar Evo
This WingBar roof rack system is a super-easy way to carry up to 220 pounds on the roof of your car, and it even comes with T-tracks so you can install your cargo carrier directly (and easily).
Thule SnowPack M
Get ready for a day on the slopes with Thule’s ski and snowboard rack. This size holds four pairs of skies — enough for a group of friends or the whole family.
Thule Sapling
This rugged backpack is here to get you (and your kid) through your day, whether it’s taking you to the shopping center or out on a trail.
Xreal Air 2 Ultra
Launch date: March 2024
Price: From $699
This “spatial computing platform” might look like a pair of trendy Wayfarer-style glasses, but there’s a whole lot going on here. Poised to become an affordable alternative to Apple’s upcoming VR headset, The Xreal Air Ultra 2 allow you to experience a ton of cool AR features: watch 3D movies, control smart lighting in your home — just tap around a virtual space using hand gestures — or hook up to your phone, laptop or gaming console for a private screen right before your eyes. It’s available for $699 on preorder now, so grab it early for an end-of-March ship date.
Xreal Air 2 + Xreal Beam Bundle
This augmented reality starter pack contains both the Air 2 glasses and the Beam for a complete experience — essentially, these glasses act like a “portable TV,” as one reviewer puts it, for gaming, streaming and more. Meanwhile, the Beam helps you refine the experience by reducing latency.
Xreal Air
At under $300, these glasses make a great entry point for those who are curious about augmented reality but might not what to shell out a ton of money just yet. Sync them with another device for a bigger, bolder gaming experience on the go or at home.
Xreal Air 2 Pro
Whether you’re knocking out a spreadsheet or streaming a movie, these glasses turn your workspace into, essentially, your field of vision. The lighter frame and light-blocking upgrades are noticeable in this pro-level pair.
Xreal Air + Adapter Bundle
This bundle lets you get into AR using your Apple iPhone, which gives you a 130-inch virtual display once you’re casting to the glasses. You can stream all your favorite platforms this way, and the glasses weigh only around 79 grams, so they stay comfy for the duration of your streaming binge.
Calpak Baby Collection
Launch date: February 2024
Price: From $28
Calpak has long been a go-to for affordable but stylish luggage, and now it’s helping parents get equipped to bring their little ones along too. The upcoming Baby Collection includes a clutch that doubles as a changing pad, a convertible stroller caddy-crossbody bag and a few diaper bag options; There’s a diaper tote, a diaper backpack and a mini version of the backpack, plus a stroller strap add-on, sold separately. The line is available in a wide range of pleasing colorways — black, Hazelnut, Slate, Peony, Lime and Oatmeal — so you can opt to go neutral on an intense travel day or pick up a little splash of color to brighten it up.
Calpak Luka Belt Bag
The Luka keeps everything hands-free and at the ready on hectic days at the airport. (Plus, since it can live under your coat, is it really your “personal item”?)
Calpak Terra 45-Liter Carry-On Luggage
One of Calpak's greatest hits, this much-loved carry-on offers the best of both worlds on a trip: hardshell edges so nothing gets banged up, plus an expandable soft cover in case you do a little shopping (or, uh, overpack).
Calpak Packable Large Garment Bag
Way less stressful than running to the dry cleaner upon arrival (and over time, cheaper too), this large garment bag has water-resistant fabric and folds up neatly to keep your fine clothing flat and folded.
Calpak Trnk Large Luggage
This retro-chic luggage is slim and narrow, making it easy to navigate around the crowds at the airport or train station (the dual spinner wheels help too). It’s expandable up to 2 inches if you need a little more breathing room too.
Cabeau Evolution Cushion
Launch date: April 2024
Price: $25
A good pillow can make all the difference when it comes to a long flight, and we’re not just talking about neck ones anymore. The maker of our favorite travel neck pillow, Cabeau has gone and made a cushion for those super-uncomfortable economy-class flight seats, and at $25, it’s way cheaper than upgrading to first class. It’s also great for stadium benches or uncomfortable office chairs.
Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow
Designed specifically to take dropping chins, neck strain and jerky obstructed-airways responses out of the picture (and your nap), our pick for best travel pillow wraps around your headrest for extra stability.
Cabeau Evolution Cool Neck Pillow
If you’re a bit of a hot and sweaty traveler (so much stress on travel days!), this cooling neck pillow lets you sleep it off while cooling you down. It has a design that doesn’t allow your head to roll around too much, and the memory foam core is paired with venting so it’s all comfort, no sweat.
Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow
Cabeau’s first sustainably minded travel pillow is just as great as the rest of the line, thanks to the construction you're already familiar with (no chin jerks!), plus fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. Still included? That cushy memory foam your sleeping self knows and loves.
Cabeau Incredi-belt Lumbar Back Support Belt
No matter where you’re sitting and standing — at work, kicking back at home — it’s how you’re sitting and standing that matters. This inflatable lumbar belt is here to aid your lower back in supporting the rest of you, helping you maintain that S-curve your lower spine needs to stay strong and unfatigued.
Dyson 360 Vis Nav
Launch date: Spring 2024
Price: TBD
Dyson’s family of super-sleek, high-tech home appliances is getting a new member this spring with the addition of the Dyson 360 Vis Nav. It marks the company’s entry into the robot vacuum category, and while Dyson might have taken a while to get there, the result is looking good. The 360 Vis Nav boasts twice the suction of any other robot vac, per Dyson, plus it adjusts the amount of suction needed for its cleaning as it goes, courtesy of one of its 26 different types of sensors. The brush combines the best of all the brush bars already on Dysons, using the soft nylon of its “fluffy” brush for larger bits of debris, plus there are carbon fiber filaments for fine dust and stiffer nylon bristles for carpet cleaning. The battery will last around 50 minutes before it needs a recharge.
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Customized
This all-in-one tool really does it all: It’ll curl and wave in two directions, plus it comes with a smoothing dryer and shaping brushes. It’s especially designed for hair that’s chest length or longer, giving those with long locks a (finally) easy-to-use hot tool.
Dyson V15s Detect Submarine Absolute
Dyson’s first vacuum-mop is here — this one in easy-to-use stick form. It offers up to 60 minutes of run time, allowing you to knock out chore day in no time. It comes with classic accessories like a hair screw tool, crevice tool, hard floor head, deep-cleaning head and wet roller head so you’re prepared for any mess or floor type.
Dyson Airstrait
Get all your drying and styling done in one go with Dyson’s Airstrait, which doesn’t use hot plates but rather pure air to get the job done. It works with multiple hair textures for a sleek, smooth finish.
Dyson Ball Animal 3 Vacuum
Perfect for families with kids or pets, this detangling upright vacuum gets all the hair, dust and debris up off the floor — and doesn’t get messed up doing it. It comes with a stair tool for those steps, plus a combo tool for a super-detailed clean when you need it.
Magic Bullet Full-Sized Blender
Launch date: Spring 2024
Price: $40
Magic Bullet’s single-serve blenders have been prepping our morning smoothies for years, but until now, the brand has never made anything for blending in batches. That’s all set to change when Magic Bullet’s first full-size blender hits shelves later this year. You’ll be able to blend in three different modes (high, low and pulse) for a crowd, whether you’re whipping up salsa, margaritas or a family’s worth of smoothies in the 48-ounce pitcher. The blades are upsized versions of the sharp ones that are a signature of the brand, and a 500W motor gets through ice, frozen fruit and way more with ease. Hand-wash the blade only; the rest you can pop in the top rack of the dishwasher for simple cleanup.
Magic Bullet Kitchen Prep
Perfect for ambitious cooks with small kitchens, this salsa-making, hummus-batching, cabbage-shredding Magic Bullet is here to help you create your favorite sides. The 250W motor and three blade options keep the blended creations coming.
Magic Bullet Portable Blender
If your mornings tend to be on the rushed side, this portable blender charges via USB-C and is battery- and cord-free, meaning you can even start the process in the parking lot. You’ll just need to juice it up with a charge once every 15 uses or so. Not in the mood for juice? It also comes with an infusion insert so you can steep a tea.
Magic Bullet Mini Juicer
If you prefer fresh juice over a smoothie, this juicer does the most at a relatively affordable price.
Magic Bullet The Original Blender
The brand’s signature product that started it all, whether you’re going savory sauces or sweet shakes. It comes with everything you need to get started, including tall and short cups, plus a party mug, multiple lids and more.
Brightland Pizza Oil
Launch date: April 2024
Price: $25
The only thing that makes sweet, sweet pizza even more delicious? A delicate drizzle of olive oil. California olive oil brand Brightland is getting in on the game with its return of Pizza Oil, a limited-edition release from last year that’s set to become a new permanent addition to the brand’s lineup in a few months’ time. A specially formulated blend of the state’s olives crushed together with garlic, jalapeños, oregano and basil, this oil is perfectly balanced, herbaceous and slightly spicy, with a flavor punch that takes your pizza nights to a whole new level. We love that it comes in a fully recyclable, BPA-free bottle that makes for easy squeezing so that your other hand can hold your precious slice. Each bottle contains about 25 servings, which comes out to about a $1-per-serving pizza booster.
Brightland The Artist Capsule
Olive oil does taste off after a while — up to two years — so when it comes to unusual flavors you won’t be using every day, these smaller bottles are a good idea (and also highly giftable). This quartet contains lemon-, chili-, basil- and garlic-infused olive oils to drizzle over salads, pastas and beyond.
Brightland California Orange Blossom Honey
Made from single-estate orange groves in California’s Central Valley, this light honey is all citrus blossom and jasmine.
Brightland The Pair
A little vinegar can really punch up a dish, and this double-fermented duo includes a balsamic made from California zinfandel grapes and Triple Crown blackberries, plus a champagne vinegar made from California chardonnay grapes and navel and Valencia oranges.
Brightland The Duo
This set is composed of two stunning EVOOs harvested in November 2022. Awake is all about cooking: You can use this bold olive oil for roasting and sautéing. Alive, meanwhile, is super grassy and great for topping salads, bread and more.
L’Oréal AirLight Pro
Launch date: Fall 2024
Price: $499
L’Oréal might or might not be coming after Dyson’s Supersonic hair dryer with the launch of the AirLight Pro, which mimics the competition’s leader with a nozzleless design. But the true test, of course, lies in how good your hair feels (and looks) after using it, and the AirLight promises to keep all the good moisture in your strands while getting it dry at the same time, thanks to a combo of infrared light and high-speed air. An anticipated total of five attachments is expected to be available with this dryer, and you can customize settings according to your hair type (either on the dryer or with an app, because 2024).
L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara
This classic black mascara has gotten top ratings for years, thanks to its volumizing and lengthening superpowers.
L'Oréal Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Face Serum
This skin care solution exfoliates your skin, courtesy of ferulic acid and amino sulfonic to reveal brighter, fresher-looking skin — and it doesn’t leave behind greasy residue either.
L'Oréal Elvive Total Repair 5 Power Restore Multiuse Treatment
If you’re a hot-tools fan or you do a daily blow-dry, smooth out frizzy hair and repair damaged strands with this hair mask, which keeps your hair fortified against heat of up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Conditioner
Carrying an almost 5-star rating, this conditioner is all about locking moisture into your hair, courtesy of that ultra-moisturizing hyaluronic acid you love from your skin care routine.
Catbird Gemstone Tennis Bracelet
Launch date: February 2024
Price: $990
Tennis bracelets are having a big moment right now, but they’re the kind of jewelry that’s always in style. Now fashion insider- and editor-favorite jewelry brand Catbird is putting a twist on a classic with its first foray into colored tennis bracelets. The company already has two tennis bracelets under its belt (more on that below) with the One O’Clock series, but the addition of color gives the iconic piece a bit of a modern spin. They’ll start at $990 and be available just at the time of year when we could use a little more sparkle in our days (or a standout Valentine’s Day gift).
Catbird One O’Clock Demi Tennis Bracelet
This little black dress of the jewelry world is made of recycled gold and diamonds, and plays well with the other bracelets in your jewelry box.
Catbird Evening Star Diamond Hoop
If you like asymmetrical, pick up this single hoop to add a little sparkle to your earscape on one side (or add two to your cart for a little more of a classic look).
Catbird Sylvie Snake Stacking Ring
This snake ring adds some (elegant) spice to your outfit, whether you wear it alone or as part of a larger stack.
Catbird Festoon Gold Chain
This extremely layerable chain is all about delicate minimalism — and you can opt in to an additional charm for 15% off for some personalized detail too.
Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.
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