Here’s a recap of CES 2026, which took place in Las Vegas at the start of the year.
1. AI Everywhere — “Physical AI” Comes Alive
Tech moved beyond software to real-world AI—robots, companions, and devices that interact in physical spaces.
• Autonomous helpers and humanoid robots roamed the show floor.
• AI companion devices and “cyber pets” captured attention.
• Smart gadgets learned user behavior for personalized interaction.
2. Nvidia’s Big Reveal
Nvidia stole headlines by launching its new Vera Rubin architecture early—a major upgrade to AI compute platforms —setting the tone for AI hardware in 2026.
• New autonomous driving and AI tech tied into the platform.
3. Next-Gen Displays & Entertainment
TV and screen tech took huge leaps:
• Ultra-thin, wallpaper OLED TVs and rollable/bendable form factors.
• Displays with higher brightness, cloud gaming support, and AI picture optimization.
4. Futuristic Consumer Gadgets
A wide range of standout devices debuted:
• Stair-climbing robot vacuums (Roborock’s Saros Rover).
• AI-powered headphone/headset hybrids capable of translation and smart tasks.
• Lego’s Smart Bricks introduce interactive play with sensors and connectivity.
5. Smart Home Evolution
Smart home gear wasn’t just smart — it was more integrated and user-centric:
• Next-gen smart locks, cameras, thermostats, and interconnected Matter support.
• Home robots like LG’s CLOiD acting as assistants.
• Smart appliances and hubs blending AI and daily life.
6. Computing & Chips
Major chipmakers showcased advancements powering tomorrow’s devices:
• Intel Core Ultra Series 3 with big AI and efficiency gains.
• AMD Ryzen AI 400 Series boosting performance and GPU/AI power.
• Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2+ targeting responsive Windows PCs.
7. Desktops, Laptops & Peripherals
A few things here:
• Rollable gaming laptops that expand screen sizes for productivity and gaming.
• Monster ultrawide 6K monitors and refined gaming peripherals.
8. Unique & Quirky Innovations
CES’s classic “wow” factor was alive with weird and wonderful tech:
• Novelty items like music-playing lollipops and pet communication devices.
• Beauty tech using light-based styling.
9. The Show by the Numbers
CES 2026 had:
• ~4100 exhibitors including ~1200 startups.
• 148 000+ attendees and thousands of media on the ground.
• 400+ conference sessions shaping tech discussions.
10. Trends to Watch in 2026
👉 AI moves into everyday life — both practical and playful.
👉 Smart home tech gets more seamless and interoperable.
👉 Displays and form factors push boundaries with ultra-thin and flexible designs.
👉 Chip wars heat up with major AI-centric silicon launches.
