CES 2026: A Showcase of Innovation and a Call for Inclusion
CES 2026 has once again established itself as the world’s preeminent technology exhibition, attracting over 145,000 attendees from 160 countries while hosting around 4,100 exhibitors in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. This year, the spotlight was firmly on artificial intelligence, which transformed from mere theory into a practical force shaping our daily lives, permeating wearables, robotics, and adaptive hardware.
Innovation Over Spectacle
A remarkable trend emerged at this year’s CES, one that emphasized practicality over mere spectacle. Products like the Rokid Style smart glasses, which won a CES award, priced at $299, showcased a strong focus on user-friendliness with voice-driven AI capabilities, positioning themselves as a compelling alternative to the Meta Ray-Ban models. Assistive technologies, such as the .lumen Glasses designed for the visually impaired, further underscored a commitment to enhancing mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
Among the many innovations, Samsung drew attention with its Galaxy Z Tri-Fold phone, while Lenovo’s rollable Legion Pro laptop, extending from 16 to 21.5 inches with the press of a key, demonstrated a crucial emphasis on adaptability. This trend reflects a growing acknowledgment that technology should bend to user needs rather than impose rigid standards.
The Evolution of Robotics
Robotics at CES 2026 brought together both function and entertainment. The Sharpa blackjack-dealing robot captivated crowds, allowing attendees to engage in simulated games, showcasing advances in robotic reasoning and tactile sensitivity. Similarly, the RealHand robots performed a synchronized piano duet, revealing fine motor control that could have significant applications in prosthetics and surgical training. This duality of entertainment and practical utility highlighted how far AI technology has progressed.
Electric vehicles dominated the automotive segment, emphasizing smarter, safer, and personalized driving experiences. Companies showcased innovations that prioritize driver safety and accessibility, aligning with the overarching theme of making technology more user-centric.
A Call for Representation and Inclusion
Amid the buzz of innovation, issues of representation were front and center. CES 2026 has made strides in focusing on inclusion, yet the underrepresentation of African Americans in the tech industry remains stark. According to The Black Chronicle, Black Americans account for only 7% of the tech workforce and 4% of tech executives, even though they represent 13% of the U.S. population. Malcolm Marzett, a tech executive from Phoenix, emphasized the need for community galvanization to improve this disparity.
Voices of Change
The event also featured prominent African American leaders who emphasized the critical intersection of technology, culture, and equity. NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson made a poignant address on the social implications of emerging technologies. Meanwhile, tennis superstar Serena Williams shared insights about her investments in inclusive innovation through her Serena Ventures, stressing the importance of supporting women and underrepresented founders. “Diversity is not just a moral imperative but a driver of future growth,” she stated, underscoring the substantial benefits that come from varied perspectives in technology.
Entrepreneur and computer scientist Omi Bell, CEO of Black Girl Ventures (BGV), led a panel titled “Innovation for All,” discussing AI’s role in shaping modern communities. Under Bell’s leadership, BGV has empowered over 400 underrepresented founders, resulting in thousands of jobs and significant social capital. The discussions also highlighted the dual reality AI holds for African American communities—with tremendous promise in areas like healthcare alongside risks of bias and inequity if not developed with intention.
A Blend of Tradition and Technology
Not all experiences at CES 2026 were entrenched in futuristic innovations. One amusing sight outside the convention halls included a bus driver who decided to crochet while waiting for a traffic light to change. This moment reminded attendees that high-tech solutions have yet to solve some of the simplest aspects of daily life, such as navigating Las Vegas traffic.
Purpose-Driven Conversations
CES 2026 ultimately illustrated the industry’s evolution towards meaningful innovation. The conversations transcended technological advances, touching upon who is responsible for crafting the future. The emphasis was not just on the innovations showcased but also on the diversity of voices that must be included in the technological narrative moving forward. The event served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for greater access and representation in the tech space, ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table where future decisions are made.