“AI Takes Center Stage at CES: The Ultimate Tech Showcase!”

LAS VEGAS: Gadgets, robots, and vehicles equipped with artificial intelligence will once again compete for attention at the Consumer Electronics Show next week, as manufacturers behind the scenes will be seeking solutions to manage tariffs anticipated by US President-elect Donald Trump.

The yearly Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will officially commence in Las Vegas on Tuesday, but earlier days will be filled with product unveilings.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key focus of the event, alongside autonomous vehicles ranging from tractors and boats to lawn mowers and golf club trolleys.

“Everyone will be discussing AI,” said Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi in a statement to AFP.

“From refrigerators to ovens to whatever, everyone will be referring to AI whether it is present or not.”

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will deliver a “do-not-miss” keynote address on the night before the CES exhibition floor opens, showcasing advancements at the AI chip leader, according to independent technology industry analyst Rob Enderle.

Chip sector competitors Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm are anticipated to respond with their own announcements.

Automobiles and robots

CES will also function as a colossal auto exposition, with automakers and component suppliers displaying self-driving and automated safety features.

“CES has been an automotive exhibition for some time now and if anything, it is increasingly so this year,” stated Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s close connection with Trump is predicted to alleviate regulatory hurdles concerning autonomous vehicles.

And although still a long way from becoming a part of daily existence, flying cars will be included in the CES landscape, as per analyst Enderle.

“You should begin to see flying vehicles available for purchase,” Enderle mentioned.

“Gaining approval for them to fly is an entirely different issue.”

Robots designed to assist with work tasks or serve as comforting companions — and even charming pets — are among the anticipated CES displays.

Devices aimed at soothing anxiety, enhancing appearance, or aiding in achieving a restful sleep will also feature prominently as technology continues to infiltrate every facet of life.

“Digital health is going to be immense,” Greengart commented.

“We are observing a growing number of technologies being worn or utilized to monitor your health indicators.”

AI-infused technology will also be integrating into households, from a spice dispenser that “learns” a chef’s preferences to robotic vacuum cleaners and increasingly “intelligent” major appliances.

Concerns over tariffs?

Tariffs discussed by Trump would increase expenses for imported goods, and that will likely be on the minds of CES participants targeting the US market, analysts believe.

A significant number of the products at the exhibition contain imported elements, and if Trump imposes tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico, it would lead to a surge in costs, analyst Enderle explained.

“There will be many worried vendors at CES,” Enderle remarked regarding tariff concerns.

“However, much of the discussion will occur behind closed doors to avoid upsetting the incoming administration.”

Discreet discussions at CES will encompass how to navigate supply chain challenges that may be prompted by tariffs, according to Greengart.

Milanesi is eager to observe whether Chinese companies will avoid CES due to Trump’s trade statements or attend the event because they might not return for several years.

“It will be intriguing to converse with smaller entities from outside the US to gauge their perspective on the effects of four years of Trump and Musk on technology,” Milanesi remarked.

Chinese firms with substantial US operations, such as smart TV competitors TCL and Hisense, are set to participate in CES.

“They will return, likely bigger and more vibrant than ever,” Greengart stated of the television manufacturers.

“However, there is also a rising divide in the market between China and the rest of the world that is particularly pronounced in the mobile sector and the automotive industry with electric vehicles.”