The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) – an annual post-New Year’s pilgrimage to Las Vegas for me and so many – has always been a true destination for innovation. However, the realm, reach and responsibility of innovation have changed drastically since I first set out for CES 25 years ago.
Since its inception in 1967, CES has been a must-see of gadgets and gizmos galore. It was the launchpad for iconic innovations from VCRs (1970) and TiVo (1999) to CD players (1981) and LCD displays (1979). In its first decades, the show faced stiff competition from the likes COMDEX, PMA, and PC Expo. And while many of these shows have disappeared and the gadgets have gone their way to the Smithsonian, the innovative DNA of CES remains.
WHAT HAS CHANGED?
The footprint and focus of CES have been the biggest change in the last quarter century. From the original, massive CE booths of Central Hall, the show now spans most of the “Strip” and its innovation goes well beyond CE. Based on insider input, exhibitor lists, keynotes, and some sleuthing, CES 2024 will focus on four areas (though there’s much more to be seen):
- AI: Surprised? I didn’t think so. Quite like IoT and Alexa a few years back, everything will have an AI thread. With Qualcomm as a Fireside Keynote, the conversation around the technology, its potential, and its impact will be front and center.
- Health and Wellness: It has been almost 10 years since I first spotted a Peloton at CES, and the impact of health and wellness tech has grown exponentially since. Elevance Health will take the keynote stage this year, elevating healthcare into the CES spotlight.
- Small but Mighty: I remember launching the 103” Plasma TV from Panasonic years ago, and it felt like bigger was better. However, in 2024 the small-but-mighty chip is slated to make the BIG impact. Expect the big players to have their hand in everything from AI to autonomous mobility.
- Mobility: The past few years, the driving force of CES has been auto, CE brands dabbling in auto, and innovative mobility technology powering the evolution to the smart city. From flying cars to autonomous trucks, the mobility space will likely once again dominate.
WHAT REMAINS THE SAME?
At the core of CES is innovation. From its humble beginnings to today, the spirit of innovation has come to life every January. And while in years past some gadgets leaned a bit too far into innovation just for the sake of it, today’s showcase shows innovation developed and delivered with a purpose. Products not only entertain (which is still showcased and needed), but also better our lives, bring us closer, drive efficiency, and better the planet.
Sustainability will be another red thread woven through innovation this year, including the keynote from Walmart that will tackle the subject at retail, and others with sustainable technology across health, energy, mobility, and more.
HOW TO HARNESS IT ALL?
For those planning to try to tackle this behemoth, CES is an amazing, exhausting, and truly immersive experience. To make the most out of your tens of thousands of steps, consider the following:
- Pre-plan & Focus
Do not set foot in Las Vegas without a good game plan. Research exhibitors, and relevant sessions and create a target list (by location) of what you need to see. And don’t miss the CES Innovation Awards showcase. It’s a great collection of the most innovative products and houses some treasures you might otherwise miss. Also, what do you want to come home with? Make sure you know what your goals are for the show – it’s easy to get distracted. - Download ALL the Apps
The CES App is a phenomenal resource for navigating the show, but a girl’s gotta eat and get around, right? Make sure you have ride-share apps like Uber/Lyft downloaded, as well as an app like OpenTable for those hard-to-get reservations. And check out the slew of Vegas apps to entertain you – if you have free time. - Get off the floor
Most CES networking, business, and fun happen far from the show floor. Leave plenty of time to attend smaller events, offsite brand activations, test drives and yes, this year, see The Sphere. The show, while frenetic, offers a great opportunity to collaborate and learn from true innovators. So, take advantage.
Even after 25 years, CES can inspire me, and to draw in the best in innovation, while continually adapting to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. January here we come.
