CES 2026 just wrapped up, and let me tell you, the tech world is buzzing. It felt like every corner of the Las Vegas Convention Center was packed with something new and exciting. From phones that fold in ways we haven’t seen before to robots that are getting surprisingly good at walking, this year’s show really set the stage for what’s next. We saw big names like Samsung and LG, but also some smaller companies with really clever ideas. It’s a lot to take in, but here are some of the highlights that really stood out.
Key Takeaways
- Foldable phones are getting more interesting, with Samsung showing off a tri-fold model and Motorola teasing a book-style design.
- Home entertainment is getting brighter and bigger, with LG and Samsung pushing the limits on OLED and Micro LED TV technology.
- AI and robots are everywhere, from Boston Dynamics’ new Atlas robot to AI companions designed for personal use.
- Laptops are getting smarter with AI integration, and companies like Lenovo are experimenting with new designs like space frames.
- New battery tech for EVs and advanced wireless charging solutions were also big topics, promising more power and less waiting.
CES 2026: The Year’s Biggest Tech Unveiled
Wow, CES 2026 just wrapped up, and let me tell you, it was a whirlwind of new gadgets and futuristic ideas. It feels like every year the show gets bigger, and this year was no exception. We saw over 4,100 exhibitors, including a ton of startups, all showing off tech that could seriously change how we live and work. It’s a lot to take in, but some things really stood out.
Best of CES 2026 Awards Finalists Announced
The official CES awards are always a good way to see what the judges thought was truly groundbreaking. This year, the competition was fierce, with everything from foldable phones to smart home gadgets vying for the top spots. The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold actually snagged the big ‘Best Overall’ award, which is pretty cool for a phone-tablet hybrid. It’s always interesting to see which products get recognized, as it often points to what will be popular in the coming year.
Innovators Showcase Cutting-Edge Technology
Beyond the awards, the show floor was buzzing with innovation. You had the big names like Samsung and LG showing off their latest, but also so many smaller companies with really clever ideas. It’s where you see the tech that’s not quite mainstream yet but is definitely on its way. Think about things like new battery tech that could change electric cars or AI that’s getting surprisingly good at understanding us. It’s a peek into the near future, and honestly, it’s pretty exciting.
CES News: The Future of Technology on Display
So, what does it all mean? CES 2026 really hammered home a few key themes. AI is everywhere, not just in robots but in everyday devices. Foldable screens are becoming more common and practical. And there’s a big push for more sustainable and efficient tech, which is always good to see. It’s clear that the companies exhibiting are trying to solve real problems, whether it’s energy consumption or how we connect with each other. You can get a sense of the overall direction of the tech industry from what’s shown here.
Revolutionary Advancements in Mobile Technology
This year’s CES really showed us that phones aren’t just phones anymore. We’re seeing some wild ideas about what a mobile device can actually be. Forget just making calls and scrolling social media; these gadgets are trying to do so much more.
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold: The Phone-Tablet Hybrid Arrives
Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold is a big deal this year. It starts out like a regular phone, but then it unfolds not once, but twice. When it’s all spread out, you’ve got a pretty large 10-inch screen, kind of like a small tablet. It’s neat because you get the portability of a phone when you need it, and then a bigger screen for watching videos or getting some work done when you’re stationary. It’s already available in some places, but seeing it in person at CES really showed off how it fits into different hands, big or small. It’s definitely a step towards phones that can be whatever you need them to be.
Motorola’s Book-Style Foldable Phone Debuts
Motorola is also jumping into the foldable game with a new phone that opens up like a book. This design is familiar to some, aiming to give you a larger screen without making the device too bulky when folded. It’s a direct competitor to other book-style foldables out there, and it looks like the competition is really heating up in this space. We’re still waiting to see all the details, but the initial showing suggests Motorola is serious about pushing the boundaries of foldable tech.
Honor’s Audacious Robot Phone Revealed
Now, this one is pretty out there. Honor showed off a "Robot Phone" that has a camera that actually flips out from the body on a little robotic arm. It’s stabilized, almost like a tiny gimbal attached to your phone. The idea is to get much better quality photos and videos when you’re out and about, without needing extra gear. It’s still a concept, so you can’t buy it yet, but it’s a bold move. Imagine getting those smooth, professional-looking shots just by pulling out your phone. It makes you wonder what else they’ll come up with next.
The Future of Home Entertainment and Appliances
CES 2026 is really showing off some wild stuff for our homes this year. It feels like we’re finally getting those futuristic gadgets we’ve only seen in movies.
LG’s Ultra-High Brightness Wallpaper OLED TV
LG is back with another version of its super thin OLED TV, and this one is seriously bright. They’re calling it the W6 Wallpaper OLED, and it’s designed to be so thin it practically blends into your wall. The big upgrade this year is the brightness. This TV is designed to make colors pop like never before, even in a really sunny room. It’s not just about being bright, though; LG is also talking about better contrast and deeper blacks, which is what OLEDs are known for. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a TV that looks like art when it’s off and a stunning display when it’s on.
Samsung’s Massive Micro RGB Backlit TV
Samsung is going big, and I mean really big, with its new TV. This isn’t just a large screen; it’s a Micro RGB backlit TV. What that means is they’re using tiny LEDs to light up the screen, and each tiny dot can control red, green, and blue light individually. The result? Colors that are incredibly accurate and vibrant. They’re pushing the boundaries of what a home TV can be, aiming for a picture quality that rivals professional displays. It’s definitely a statement piece for a home theater.
LG’s Laundry-Folding Home Robot
Okay, this one is pretty wild. LG has shown off a robot that can actually fold your laundry. Seriously. It’s part of their push into more advanced home robotics. This isn’t just a novelty; LG is talking about AI that helps the robot figure out how to handle different types of clothes. Imagine coming home and having your clothes already folded and put away. It’s still early days, and we need to see how well it works in real homes, but the potential is huge. This could be the start of robots actually taking over some of the more tedious chores around the house.
Here’s what we know about its potential capabilities:
- Laundry Folding: The primary function, aiming to handle shirts, pants, and other common garments.
- Dishwasher Unloading: Reports suggest it might also be able to help empty your dishwasher.
- AI Integration: Uses artificial intelligence to adapt to different fabric types and folding methods.
- Task Management: Could potentially coordinate with other smart home devices for a more automated household.
AI and Robotics Take Center Stage
It feels like every year at CES, AI and robotics get a bigger spotlight, and 2026 is no different. This year, though, it’s not just about flashy demos; we’re seeing more practical applications and even some surprisingly human-like movements from these machines. It’s getting pretty wild out there.
Boston Dynamics’ New Atlas Robot Makes Public Debut
Okay, so Boston Dynamics has always been the king of making robots do impressive, sometimes unsettling, things. Their new Atlas robot made a big splash at CES 2026, and it’s a step up. This version of Atlas can actually walk around with a gait that looks remarkably like a human’s, which is a huge leap from its previous, more jerky movements. It’s not just about walking, either. We saw demos of it picking up objects, manipulating tools, and generally moving with a fluidity that’s pretty mind-blowing. It makes you wonder what kind of jobs these robots might be doing in the not-too-distant future. It’s clear they’re pushing the boundaries of what’s physically possible for robots.
Emily at CES: The Next Phase of Human-AI Relationships
Beyond the heavy-duty robots, there’s a whole other side to AI: companionship and interaction. Emily, a new AI system showcased at CES, is aiming to redefine how we connect with artificial intelligence. Think of it as a more advanced personal assistant, but with a focus on emotional intelligence and nuanced conversation. It’s designed to be more than just a tool; it’s meant to be a partner in daily life. The demos showed Emily engaging in complex discussions, remembering past conversations, and even offering empathetic responses. This is a big move towards making AI feel less like software and more like a presence in our lives. It’s a bit sci-fi, but it’s happening now. You can find more about these kinds of advancements in physical AI.
Qualcomm’s Vision for Robotics
Qualcomm, a company we usually associate with phone chips, is making a serious play in the robotics space. They showed off their new Dragonwing IQ10 Series, which is a full-stack AI architecture. Basically, it means their chips are designed to handle both the hardware and software side of robotics. One of the coolest examples was the Motion 2 robot, a humanoid built with VinMotion. This robot could bend its back, crouch down, and pick things up off the floor – tasks that sound simple for us but are complex for robots. Qualcomm is partnering with a bunch of other robotics companies, too, which means their AI tech is going to be showing up in a lot more places. It’s a smart move, especially considering their background in automotive tech, which has a lot of overlap with robotics. We’re not quite living in the Jetsons’ world yet, but the building blocks are definitely being put in place.
Computing and Laptop Innovations
This year’s CES 2026 really put a spotlight on how far laptops and computers have come, especially with all the new AI stuff happening. It feels like every company is trying to pack more smart features into their machines.
Lenovo’s ThinkPads Feature Space Frame Design
Lenovo is shaking things up with its new ThinkPads, introducing a "Space Frame" design. This isn’t just about looks; it’s about making these workhorses tougher and lighter. Imagine a laptop that feels more robust without weighing you down – that’s the idea here. They’re aiming for a balance of durability and portability that should appeal to anyone who travels a lot or just wants a machine that can handle a bit more.
HP’s Next-Gen AI PCs
HP is really pushing the AI angle with its latest lineup. They’ve got new processors that are built to handle artificial intelligence tasks right on the device, which means faster performance for things like image editing or even just managing your files. HP’s OmniBook Ultra 14 is being touted as the "world’s slimmest consumer notebook," measuring just 0.55 inches at its thickest point. This focus on on-device AI processing is a big deal, potentially making our computers smarter and more responsive without always needing an internet connection. You can check out some of the latest Windows 11 PCs that are embracing these AI capabilities.
Acer’s Focus on Thinness and Durability
Acer is also playing in the thin-and-light space, but they’re not forgetting about making things last. Their new Swift Edge models are super light, under 2.2 pounds, which is great for carrying around. But they’ve also used materials like stainless steel-magnesium alloy in the build. This suggests Acer is trying to give you that portability without sacrificing toughness. They even have a new touchpad on the Swift 16 AI that uses haptic feedback, which could be pretty neat for creative work or just general use. It’s nice to see companies still thinking about how to make laptops that are both easy to carry and built to withstand daily life.
Emerging Trends in Health and Mobility
This year at CES, it feels like technology is really trying to get into every part of our lives, especially when it comes to staying healthy and getting around. We saw some pretty interesting stuff that could actually make a difference.
The 5 Most Interesting Health Technology Trends
Health tech is getting serious about looking at more than just your weight. Take the new Withings Body Scan 2, for example. It’s not just a scale; it’s like a mini-lab for your bathroom. It measures 60 different things, not just weight, but also things that could hint at future problems like high blood pressure or issues with blood sugar. It even has a wand you pull up to get more readings. They’re calling it an "at-home longevity station," which sounds pretty fancy, but the idea is to help you make better choices day-to-day. It’s still waiting for FDA approval, but it’s expected to launch later this year.
Then there’s the Luna Band. This thing is different because it has no screen. You talk to it, and its AI listens to how you feel, what you eat, and why you might have slept badly. It’s like having a personal health diary that you can chat with. It connects to other health apps too, and the best part? No monthly subscription, which is a nice change.
We also saw some cool advancements in personal mobility. The Hypershell X Ultra is an exoskeleton that gives you a boost when you walk. It has motors around the hips that help you move, making hikes or long walks feel less tiring. People who tried it said it let them keep up with others and enjoy the scenery without getting completely worn out. It’s not cheap, though, costing around $2,000, but there’s a less expensive model too.
And for those who want a car that can drive itself but still let you take the wheel, the Tensor Robocar is a step in that direction. You can tell it what to do with your voice, and it has all the sensors needed for driving. It’s a different take on self-driving cars, offering more flexibility.
Finally, Segway showed off some new electric bikes and even an electric dirt bike, suggesting they’re expanding their personal transport options beyond just scooters. It looks like getting around is getting a lot more interesting and a lot more electric.
Phone-Sized Solid-State Battery Powers EVs
This is a big one for electric cars. We’re seeing solid-state batteries, which are supposed to be safer and charge faster than the ones we have now, getting smaller. CES 2026 featured a solid-state battery that’s about the size of a smartphone. The really exciting part? It’s already being used in a production electric vehicle. This could mean quicker charging times and maybe even longer ranges for EVs in the near future, making electric cars more practical for everyday use.
Segway Debuts New E-Bikes and E-Dirtbike
Segway isn’t just about those personal transporters anymore. They’ve expanded their electric lineup quite a bit. At CES 2026, they showed off two new electric bikes, aimed at different kinds of riders, and even an electric dirt bike. This shows they’re serious about electric mobility for more than just city commuting. It looks like they want to offer electric options for recreation and off-road fun too. They also had some new accessories to go with them, making their whole electric vehicle ecosystem more complete.
CES News: Connectivity and Power Solutions
This year’s CES has really put a spotlight on how we connect and power our lives, and honestly, it feels like we’re on the cusp of some big changes. It’s not just about faster internet or bigger batteries anymore; it’s about smarter, more integrated ways to keep everything running.
The Future of Wireless Power
Wireless power is finally starting to feel less like a novelty and more like a practical solution. We saw a lot of companies pushing the boundaries, moving beyond just charging pads. The idea is to have power available more broadly, almost like Wi-Fi, but for electricity. It’s still early days, and there are definitely hurdles to overcome, like efficiency and safety standards, but the direction is clear: less plugging in, more ambient power.
Belkin’s Lineup for Extended Phone Charging
Belkin always seems to have a solid presence at CES, and this year is no different. They’ve rolled out a new range of charging solutions aimed at keeping our phones powered up for longer periods, especially when we’re on the go. Think portable chargers that are smaller, hold more juice, and charge devices faster than ever. They also showed off some new multi-device charging stations that are pretty neat for tidying up desk clutter.
AuraCharge: Wireless Smart Locks That Never Need Recharging
This is one of those ideas that makes you think, "Why didn’t someone do this sooner?" Smart locks are convenient, but the battery life has always been a bit of a worry. AuraCharge is tackling that head-on with a system that uses wireless power transfer. The idea is that the lock itself can draw power wirelessly from a nearby hub or even a small solar panel integrated into the lock’s design. This could finally make smart locks as reliable as their traditional keyed counterparts. It’s a clever approach to a common problem, and it’ll be interesting to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Here’s a quick look at what makes AuraCharge stand out:
- Integrated Solar Charging: Many of their new locks feature small solar panels that can trickle-charge the battery throughout the day.
- Wireless Power Hub: A central hub can wirelessly power multiple locks within a certain range, reducing the need for battery replacements.
- Smart Power Management: The system is designed to optimize power usage, drawing power only when needed and maximizing solar gain.
- Long-Life Battery Backup: Even with wireless and solar options, a robust internal battery ensures continued operation during extended periods without power.
Wrapping Up CES 2026
So, that’s a wrap on CES 2026. It was a pretty wild ride, seeing all the new gadgets and ideas. From robots that walk like us to TVs that are brighter than ever, it feels like we got a real peek at what’s coming next. We saw some cool stuff from big names like Samsung and LG, but also some neat inventions from smaller companies. It’s always interesting to see how tech keeps changing, and this year definitely showed us that. We’ll have to wait and see which of these innovations actually make it into our homes and lives, but for now, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities.
