Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM FEBRUARY 2026 10 CES 2026 BY THE NUMBERS* • 2.6M+ net square feet of exhibit space • 4,100+ exhibitors, including some 1,200 startups • 148,000+ attendees, including more than 55,000 international attendees • Some 6,900 global media, content creators, and industry analysts • Over 60% of Fortune 500 companies • More than 55% of CES attendees were senior-level executives • 400+ conference sessions with 1,300+ speakers • 200+ government attendees • 37,000+ news stories and content The show kicked off with two dynamic Media Days, packed with major product and partnership announcements and exclusive product demonstrations. Hosted by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ® , CES 2026 ran through Friday, January 9, across 13 venues in Las Vegas, including the newly renovated Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). CES was the first event to use the space, marking the completion of the $600 million renovation of the LVCC legacy campus. "CES is where innovators show up, business accelerates, partnerships ignite, and technology transforms real-world challenges into bold opportunities," said Gary Shapiro, Executive Chair and CEO, CTA. "We're thrilled to see global innovators show up and unveil the breakthroughs that will shape the future." Walking through the 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space felt like stepping into the future – except the future isn't coming anymore. It's here. With more than 4,100 exhibitors, including some 1,200 startups, CES 2026 showcased tech that is not just theoretical but practical, solving real-world challenges and seamlessly integrating into our lives. From AI-driven health solutions to next-gen mobility, this was the proving ground for ideas that will shape the next decade. ROBOTICS Robotics descended upon CES 2026 as "physical AI," turning breakthroughs in artificial intelligence into adaptable machines capable of delivering complex real-world outcomes. Innovation is accelerating through analytical AI, which enables robots to process more data and make smarter decisions, and generative AI, which powers simulation-based training so robots learn through virtual experience rather than rigid programming. Human- oid robots are emerging as a major frontier, moving from single- task roles toward collaborative assistants, while robotics overall is expanding across home, industrial, medical, supply chain, and mobility applications to improve safety, efficiency, and workforce resilience. ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY Walking the show floor this year felt like stepping into an energy revolution. CES 2026 showcased game-changing solutions that are transforming how we move, work, and live. From battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to plug-in hybrids and extended-range EVs, innovation was everywhere – whether you have plans for cruising on an e-bike or powering heavy- duty construction and agricultural equipment. And it didn't stop at transportation. Breakthroughs in large-scale and home battery storage, smart energy management devices and portable power systems are making grids more reliable and meeting the world's growing energy demands. Some of the trailblazers leading the charge: Donut Lab, Evotrex, Flint Paper Battery, Jackery, KEPCO, SPOG Trailers, Stryten Energy, and Superheat – to name just a few. SMART HOME The smart home ecosystem now covers appliances, assistants, energy management, entertainment, robots, and security with solutions focused on consumer control, convenience, and sustainability. AI-driven personalization and predictive automation are becoming standard, enabling homes to anticipate needs through adaptive security, lighting, appliances, and thermostats that learn routines and optimize performance. SMARTER, SLEEKER WEARABLES Wearables are becoming essential across health, fitness, accessibility and even entertainment. Moreover, the momentum is undeniable – especially with the rise of smart glasses, AR eyewear, and the booming smartwatch and smart ring markets. This year, smart glasses took a major leap forward. Imagine hands- free living powered by generative AI voice interfaces – perfect for daily tasks. Add features like real-time translation, voice recording, and even QR code payments, and suddenly your glasses aren't just smart, they're indispensable. Health-focused wearables were also in the spotlight. We saw earbuds aiming for FDA approval to double as over-the-counter hearing aids, advanced ECG smartwatches, and smart rings that pack serious health-tracking power. FINAL THOUGHTS CES 2026 wasn't just an event – it was a statement. The world's biggest tech show reminded us that innovation doesn't wait. It moves fast, and if you're not paying attention, you'll miss the moment when the future becomes the present. We'll see you next year for CES 2027 – where we'll celebrate 60 years of CES! Mark your calendars for January 6-9. Learn more at www.CES.tech and follow CES on social. RO CES 2026: INNOVATORS SHOWED UP, BIG TIME

• Cover