CES 2026: Top 5 Tech Trends to Watch
▼ Summary
– CES 2026, the world’s largest tech conference, begins in early January and is a major platform for companies to showcase new innovations.
– A key trend will be more AI-enabled wearables, like smart glasses and pins, offering advanced features through deeper data analysis and AI chatbots.
– New smartphone designs, particularly trifold models like the announced Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, are expected to be a highlight of the show.
– The event will feature advancements in robotics, including more effective robot vacuums and various futuristic, AI-powered robot prototypes.
– The conference will also showcase flashy new TV technologies and related accessories, alongside expected AI hardware announcements from major chipmakers like Nvidia and AMD.
The annual Consumer Electronics Show is poised to unveil the next wave of technological innovation, setting the tone for the year ahead. As the premier global stage for tech announcements, CES 2026 promises a fascinating look at how artificial intelligence is moving from our pockets and laptops into the fabric of our daily lives through new hardware forms. From intelligent wearables to transformative home robots, the event will highlight a clear shift toward more integrated and proactive digital assistants.
Artificial intelligence is no longer just software; it’s becoming a physical companion through a new generation of smart wearables. CES has always been a launchpad for personal tech, but this year the focus sharpens on devices that make AI interactions seamless and constant. We anticipate a surge in smart glasses, AI pins, and advanced wristbands that move beyond simple notifications. These gadgets aim to provide real-time analysis and conversational assistance, bridging the gap between digital intelligence and the physical world. While major brands will have a presence, some of the most compelling innovations often come from agile startups offering sophisticated features at accessible prices, making this category particularly exciting to explore on the show floor.
The smartphone continues to evolve beyond the familiar rectangular slab. Following significant strides in foldable technology throughout 2025, the next frontier is the trifold design. The potential debut of devices like Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold at CES could redefine mobile screen real estate, effectively turning a phone into a compact tablet. Even if Samsung opts for a later reveal, the conference’s international exhibitor base means we are likely to see multiple interpretations of this flexible form factor. This progression signals a bold new chapter for personal computing, where the device in your pocket can effortlessly expand to meet both communication and productivity needs.
Robotics will again command significant attention, especially within the smart home ecosystem. The humble robot vacuum is getting a brain and, in some cases, a helping hand. Last year’s models demonstrated new utility, like picking up objects, and this year’s iterations are expected to be even more capable and efficient. Beyond cleaning, the expo halls will be filled with robotic prototypes of all kinds. The integration of advanced AI could be the key to transitioning these futuristic concepts into genuinely helpful everyday companions, whether for chores, security, or personal assistance. We’ll be watching closely for any robots that demonstrate practical, real-world problem-solving skills.
Delving into the foundational hardware powering the AI revolution, announcements from chipmakers like Nvidia and AMD are highly anticipated. Following a impactful keynote last year, industry watchers expect Nvidia to share updates on its platforms for robotics and autonomous systems. AMD has confirmed a keynote address where it is expected to unveil new processor technology, including next-generation 3D V-Cache CPUs. These developments are crucial, as they provide the raw computational power needed to run the sophisticated AI models featured in so many other products at the show.
Finally, CES would not be complete without spectacular displays. Television technology consistently delivers awe-inspiring moments, and 2026 should be no exception. We expect to see even larger, thinner, and more versatile screens, with innovations possibly extending to new form factors and integration into various surfaces. Alongside the TVs themselves, a host of supporting accessories will debut, including advanced soundbars and projectors that push the boundaries of home theater immersion. This category remains a centerpiece of the CES experience, showcasing the cutting edge of consumer visual entertainment.
(Source: ZDNET)
