The global technology calendar kicks off with a bang next week as the world's largest tech exhibition, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), opens its doors in Las Vegas. Starting on January 6, the four-day spectacle will see the biggest names in tech, from Samsung and LG to Intel and Nvidia, unveil their latest innovations and set the tone for the year ahead in consumer electronics.
The Unstoppable Rise of Artificial Intelligence
If one theme is set to dominate CES 2026, it is the pervasive integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This year, AI will be woven into the fabric of virtually every product category, from everyday appliances like washing machines and refrigerators to advanced cameras and automobiles. The key challenge for both industry insiders and consumers will be distinguishing genuinely useful AI applications from superficial additions made merely for marketing appeal.
Attendees should brace for a flood of AI-powered gadgets. This includes smarter home devices featuring more conversational voice assistants and a new wave of wearable AI accessories. These wearables will take various forms, such as intelligent wristbands, pendants, and devices equipped with cameras, all designed to bring AI closer to the user.
Smart Glasses Step into the Spotlight
Following the successful collaboration between Meta and Ray-Ban, smart glasses are poised to be a major trend at CES 2026. A wide array of companies will showcase eyewear that attempts to seamlessly blend style with advanced functionality. The variety will be immense, catering to different consumer needs.
Visitors can expect to see glasses featuring mono and dual-lens waveguide screens, camera-free models for the privacy-conscious, and specialised "AI glasses" optimised for photography and audio. Brands like TCL, Rokid, Xreal, and Even Realities will present their visions, though a definitive standard for the perfect smart glass remains elusive.
Televisions Get a Colour Revolution
Televisions have always been a cornerstone of CES, and 2026 will be no exception. The buzz this year surrounds Micro RGB LED technology, which promises to revolutionise picture quality. This innovation uses individual clusters of red, green, and blue LEDs for backlighting instead of traditional white or blue ones, resulting in a colour range that can potentially surpass even OLED displays.
Samsung is expanding its Micro RGB TV lineup to include models ranging from 55 to 115 inches. LG is countering with its first Micro RGB evo TVs in 75-, 86-, and 100-inch sizes, boasting 100% colour gamut coverage. Other giants like Hisense and Sony are also expected to reveal their offerings in this space. Additionally, LG is entering the "art TV" segment with its Gallery TV, while both companies will showcase high-resolution displays with AI upscaling for gamers.
Robots Move from Novelty to Necessity
Robotics will take centre stage, demonstrating a clear shift from conceptual prototypes to practical, everyday helpers. Robot vacuums are evolving rapidly, with new models featuring retractable arms, legs for climbing obstacles, and even stair-climbing capabilities, as seen with the Roborock Saros Z70 and Dreame X50.
The scope is expanding beyond cleaning. LG will introduce CLOiD, a humanoid home automation robot, while other companies will display automated pool cleaners, lawn mowers, and more. The integration of advanced computer vision and AI world models will make these robots more adept at navigating complex environments. All eyes will also be on Samsung's long-awaited Ballie project, which may finally see a concrete update.
The show will also feature the latest laptops powered by new processors from Intel, Qualcomm, and AMD, alongside radical concepts like LG's ultralight Aerominium laptops and Lenovo's rumoured rollable gaming laptop. While not a primary smartphone launch event, CES may host the global debut of Samsung's Galaxy Z Trifold, a double-folding device that opens into a 10-inch tablet.
True to its spirit, CES 2026 will also host its share of bizarre and wonderful gadgets—from exoskeletons for hikers and LED face masks to AI-powered pet wearables and over-the-counter hearing aids. These prototypes, whether they ever reach the market or not, ensure that CES remains the world's most fascinating showcase of future technology.
