The future arrived in Las Vegas as CES 2026, the world's most influential technology showcase, transformed the city into a living lab of tomorrow. Held from January 6 to 9 across multiple sprawling venues, the event presented by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) moved beyond theory to demonstrate practical, life-integrated technology. With over 4,100 exhibitors, including approximately 1,200 startups, the event's core mission was to experience tech solutions for the planet's greatest challenges.
The Rise of Physical AI and Humanoid Helpers
This year, robotics took center stage as 'physical AI,' translating artificial intelligence breakthroughs into adaptable machines for complex real-world tasks. The CTA highlighted that humanoid robots are evolving from single-purpose tools into collaborative assistants, expanding into homes, industries, medical fields, and supply chains to enhance safety and efficiency.
Attendees witnessed a stunning array of robots performing diverse duties. These machines were seen folding laundry, performing spine surgery, dealing cards in casinos, serving cocktails, and even boxing. A significant highlight was their new role as AI companions for both children and adults, offering interaction and support.
One of the star attractions was Hong Kong-based SenseRobot's chess-playing robotic arm. This device acts as both a formidable opponent and a personal coach, using advanced AI vision and decision-making intelligence to correct players' inaccurate moves with millimeter-level precision.
Intelligent Mobility and Culinary Automation
The focus of mobility has shifted decisively from electric vehicles to autonomous intelligence. CES 2026 unveiled the next phase through self-driving robotaxis and shuttles. Pliyt, a California-based autonomous ride-sharing company founded by Indian-origin Shalin James Anto, showcased its sleek, four-passenger pods. Each private compartment features a screen for virtual meetings or entertainment. The company aims for its first pilot deployment in 2028.
In the realm of home automation, the AI-powered robo-chef 'Nosh' made a striking debut. Featured at 'CES Unveiled,' this device merges robotics, AI, and food science to automatically cook over 500 dishes from cuisines including American, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Korean, and Pan-Asian. Amit Gupta, Co-founder of Nosh Robotics, explained to PTI that it acts as a private chef for busy families, promoting fresh, healthy meals over expensive processed or delivered food. It precisely measures ingredients and uses AI vision to monitor the cooking process.
Companionship and Cutting-Edge Engineering
A poignant trend at the show was the development of AI robotic companions designed for emotional support, particularly for the elderly and those living alone. Companies displayed AI friends to teach and play with children, aiming to reduce screen time. China's Hengbot Innovation Ltd presented 'Sirius,' a bionic robotic dog companion for empty-nest families. Startup Ludens AI unveiled 'Cocomo,' an AI companion focused on play, bonding, and growth.
On the engineering front, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) made its CES debut, emphasizing 'Engineering the Future, Intelligent by Design.' The company showcased its work in autonomous mobility, intelligent electrification, Physical AI robotics, GenAI-led vehicle experiences, and advanced semiconductor engineering.
Other notable exhibits included DYNA's laundry-folding humanoid and Sharpa's full-body robot 'North,' which boasts a 0.02-second reaction time for ping-pong, can deal Blackjack cards, and build paper windmills.
Gary Shapiro, CTA Executive Chair and CEO, called CES the world's most powerful proving ground for innovation, where technology meets community, business, and policy. Kinsey Fabrizio, CTA President, described the energy as extraordinary, highlighting the event's role in fostering deal-making and partnerships that turn bold visions into reality.
