Attendees at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week can anticipate “remarkable advancements” across various technological fields, with mobility at the forefront.
A significant highlight of the event, taking place from January 7 to 10, 2025, will be a keynote speech regarding the future of self-driving vehicles by Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo, a subsidiary of Google recognized as a pioneer in autonomous ride-hailing.
Waymo will display progress in autonomous vehicle technologies, while John Deere and Oshkosh will introduce innovations in intelligent agricultural and construction vehicles. Hyundai will showcase state-of-the-art air travel technologies, and the newly established Mobility Stage will feature engaging presentations from prominent leaders in the mobility sector.
“Anticipate remarkable advancements in artificial intelligence, digital health and wellness, and the complete mobility ecosystem, ranging from connected and autonomous cars to construction, aviation, and watercraft,” stated John Kelley, President of CTA and director of the CES show, during a virtual press briefing last month.
Large, small, seasoned, and youth-focused
This year, over 1,400 startups will participate alongside major tech entities like Nvidia and Samsung, with newcomers like Foxconn and Scout Motors. With AI as a pivotal theme, the event will highlight the progression of technology in solving global issues and transforming various sectors.
Melissa Harrison, VP of marketing and communications for CTA, remarked: “New exhibitors include EcoFlow, Pecron, PKCell, and Paukee. You’ll encounter showcases from companies such as Continental, NXP, and newcomer CES exhibitor Scout Motors.
“You will discover exhibitors focused on smart cities, IoT, AI, and sustainability, where business meets innovation. Exhibitors like Exeter, Hitachi, NASA, and Siemens will present revolutionary technologies that transform cities, infrastructure, and the future of urban living.”
Other prominent brands making an appearance include Hisense, LG, Panasonic, Samsung, Sony, and TCL.
AI and emerging categories
Artificial intelligence emerged as a key trend at CES 2024 and is expected to dominate again this year, with transformative applications in healthcare, mobility, and intelligent manufacturing.
Kinsey Fabrizio, President of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), stated: “AI permeates the entire show floor. Each category is discussing AI and their different products and solutions, and we’re thrilled by it. You’ll uncover AI-powered digital twins, enterprise software for intelligent factories, and climate forecasting, as well as AI chips aimed at enhancing computing capabilities and breakthroughs in AI-driven drug discovery.
“Among the leading exhibitors to watch for in these areas will be AMD, BMW, Nvidia, Siemens, and Walmart. And of course, we are excited to see numerous startups globally introducing innovative AI technologies.
“Keep an eye out for beauty and personal care, fashion technology, and pet technology,” said Fabrizio.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will kick off the event, discussing how AI and computing are propelling advancements across various industries.
For the first time, the iconic Las Vegas Sphere venue will host a keynote at CES, featuring Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian sharing perspectives on the future of mobility.
CES 2025 will unveil new categories for Innovation Awards, reflecting the increasing impact of technology in everyday life.
Apart from product launches, CES serves as a platform for tackling the world’s most urgent challenges.
Kelley commented: “CES represents more than just the products on display. We have sessions across over 40 conference tracks for CES 2025. These encompass emerging domains like quantum computing and energy transition.
“Quantum computing will spotlight the Quantum Means Business Program, produced in partnership with Quantum World Congress. Energy transition will emphasize the growth of technology that boosts energy demand and how innovation can address that challenge.
“Through a new collaboration with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, we’ll investigate how fashion and technology converge, influencing design, production, and retail, and revolutionizing consumer wearables. Additionally, in programming, we will explore how AI and machine learning are uncovering new business prospects.”
* Jason Bannier is a data analyst at World Wide Worx and a contributor for Gadget.co.za. Follow him on Bluesky at @jas2bann.