LAS VEGAS, United States - Wearable devices make up this year's hottest technology in the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which kicked off Tuesday at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

More than a dozen firms displayed new wearable products, most directed at health and fitness. These devices are equipped with computer chips that can monitor users' heart rate, steps taken, and even location.

People in the near future could choose their wearable devices from head to toe, use it to manage their life, and track their health condition.

Not only a record or output device, more wearable gadgets support inter-communication with wearers. Intel CEO Brian Krzanich unveiled a new "personal assistant" earpiece named Jarvis, which is Intel's answer to the voice-activated Google Now and Apple's Siri.

Almost all wearable devices are as companions to smartphones. There is one exception that the Neptune Pine is a stand-alone device. This Android-based smart watch is a social-media hub, video game console, media player and platform for two cameras, all in a 2.4-inch device that rides on a person's wrist without the need of a connection with a phone.

In addition to developing reference devices for wearable technology, Intel will offer a number of accessible, low-cost entry platforms from 2014 on.

During the trade show, Krzanich also unveiled Intel Edison, a Pentium-class PC the size and shape of an SD card with built-in wireless capabilities and support for multiple operating systems.

These products are aimed at helping lower entry barriers for individuals and small companies to create innovative Internet-connected wearables or other small form factor devices.

The 2014 International CES, which will last till Friday, has attracted more than 3,200 exhibitors with their latest consumer tech products in 15 categories.