Devices, robots, and automobiles equipped with artificial intelligence are set to attract attention once more at this week’s Consumer Electronics Show, as companies behind the scenes explore strategies to address tariffs proposed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
The yearly Consumer Electronics Show (CES) officially kicks off in Las Vegas on Tuesday, yet the days leading up to it are filled with product unveilings.
Artificial intelligence (AI) will be a central focus of the event, alongside self-driving vehicles that range from tractors and boats to lawn care machines and golf cart trolleys.
“Everyone will be discussing AI,” Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi shared with AFP. “From refrigerators to ovens and beyond, mention of AI will be ubiquitous, regardless of its presence.”
Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang is scheduled to deliver a “don’t-miss” keynote address on the night before the CES exhibition opens, highlighting innovations from the AI chip titan, as stated by independent tech industry analyst Rob Enderle.
Competitors in the chip sector such as Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm are anticipated to respond with their own announcements.
Automobiles and robots
CES will also serve as a major automotive exhibition, with automobile manufacturers and component suppliers displaying self-driving and automated safety technologies.
“CES has effectively become an auto show for some time now, and this year it’s even more significant,” noted Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart.
Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk’s strong connections with Trump are thought to alleviate regulatory hurdles concerning autonomous vehicles.
Moreover, although still not part of daily life, flying cars are expected to be featured prominently at CES, according to analyst Enderle.
“You should begin to see flying vehicles available for purchase,” Enderle stated. “Securing approval to operate them is an entirely different story.”
Robots designed for task management or to serve as comforting companions — even charming pets — are among the anticipated exhibits at CES.
Gadgets aimed at relaxing the mind, enhancing physical appearance, or ensuring a restful night’s sleep will also be showcased, as technology increasingly permeates every facet of life.
“Digital health is set to be enormous,” Greengart commented. “We’re observing a significant rise in technology designed to be worn or utilized for tracking health metrics.”
AI-empowered technology will also be making its way into households, from a spice dispenser that “adapts” to a cook’s tastes and robotic vacuum cleaners to increasingly “intelligent” large appliances.
Concerns about tariffs?
The tariffs proposed by Trump would increase costs for imported goods, likely weighing on the minds of CES participants focusing on the U.S. market, according to analysts.
Many products displayed at the exhibition contain imported components, and if tariffs are imposed on Canada, China, and Mexico by Trump, it could result in a surge in prices, as per analyst Enderle.
“There will be a significant number of worried vendors at CES,” Enderle commented regarding tariff concerns. “However, much of the conversation will take place behind closed doors to avoid upsetting the forthcoming administration.”
Subtle discussions at CES will revolve around strategies to navigate supply chain challenges that may arise from tariffs, as per Greengart.
Milanesi is eager to see whether companies based in China choose to skip CES due to Trump’s trade rhetoric or attend the event since it may be years before they return.
“It will be fascinating to converse with the smaller players from outside the U.S. to understand their perceptions of the impact that four years of Trump and Musk will have on technology,” Milanesi remarked.
Chinese firms with substantial U.S. operations, like smart television competitors TCL and Hisense, will be present at CES.
“They are expected to return, likely more prominent and dazzling than ever,” Greengart stated about the television manufacturers. “However, there is also an escalating division in the market between China and the rest of the globe, especially evident in the mobile sector and the automotive industry concerning electric vehicles.”
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