As the Consumer Electronics Show opens in Las Vegas on Tuesday, artificial intelligence is set to dominate the spotlight, bringing together bold promises and practical limits on one global stage.
AI is often imagined as a powerful force that can think and act faster than humans. In reality, the technology on display is focused on specific tasks. These include gadgets that translate languages during conversations, track health symptoms, or offer real time information through smart glasses. Even humanoid robots remain a work in progress, with many still operated remotely by humans.
“The gap between AI technology hype and customer experience expectations will widen at CES 2026,” said Thomas Husson, a principal analyst at a research firm. “If software and AI models move at the speed of light, energy and hardware move at the speed of physics.”
Despite these limits, the show is expected to feature a wide range of artificial intelligence powered consumer devices. These include televisions, home appliances, personal computers, vehicles, and wearable products such as smart rings that monitor health.
The annual event, which attracted more than 142,000 visitors last year, will once again span a massive convention centre along with hotels and venues across the city. Exhibitors are expected to showcase everything from humanoid robots and exoskeletons to artificial intelligence enabled toys and large autonomous mining vehicles.
“There’s no question that some of it is going to be AI washing,” said analyst Avi Greengart. “But we will also see genuinely useful features driven by advances in machine learning.”
Smart glasses, including models developed through partnerships between major technology and eyewear brands, are expected to fuel competition in artificial intelligence wearables. Analysts predict that around 10 percent of consumers may try such devices by the end of the year.
Personal computers are also expected to be a key focus, as chipmakers compete to deliver strong artificial intelligence performance while improving battery life. However, rising prices for computing and memory chips continue to cast uncertainty over the market.
“AI is definitely a story that overlays CES in terms of new capabilities, but also new price pressures,” Greengart said.
Geopolitics will also shape the event. While several large Chinese brands are attending, many smaller firms are absent due to ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
Still, CES remains important for the industry. As Greengart noted, “What you do see at CES is a clear view on the trends and where investment in the industry is happening.”
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
