AI dominates CES 2026 as annual Las Vegas tech trade show kicks off • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The overarching theme of CES 2024, moving from theoretical discussion to practical application.
• Physical AI Systems: AI powering robots and other technologies operating in real-world environments.
• Vera Rubin: Nvidia’s new chip, promising a significant performance increase over previous generations.
• Digital Twins: Virtual representations of physical objects or systems, utilized in various sectors.
• CES (Consumer Electronics Show): Annual technology trade show in Las Vegas.

The Dominance of AI at CES 2024

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, held in Las Vegas between January 6th and 9th, was overwhelmingly focused on the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Unlike previous years where AI was discussed primarily in theoretical terms, this year’s event showcased AI actively powering a wide range of technologies, from robotics to digital health. The show attracted over 3,500 exhibitors and is expected to host over 140,000 visitors from more than 150 countries.

Nvidia’s Vera Rubin Chip and Physical AI

A central moment of CES was Nvidia founder Ron Jensen Huang’s keynote speech. He announced that the company’s new chip, named Vera Rubin, is now in full production. Huang stated, “Now, Vera increases the single performance, increases the capacity of the memory, increases everything just dramatically. It’s a giant show.” This signifies a substantial leap in processing power, with Vera Rubin being five times more effective than Nvidia’s previous chip offerings.

Nvidia highlighted the concept of “Physical AI Systems,” demonstrated through robotic sidekicks accompanying Huang on stage – a clear reference to robots like those from Hyundai and LG. These robots, including the LG humanoid capable of loading a washing machine, exemplify AI operating in real-world environments. This extends beyond robotics to include technologies like self-driving cars.

Sector-Wide AI Integration

The integration of AI wasn’t limited to robotics. The transcript highlights AI’s presence across multiple sectors, including:

• Digital Health: Specific applications weren’t detailed, but AI’s role in this sector was noted.
• Digital Twins: Virtual representations of physical objects or systems, suggesting applications in design, simulation, and optimization.
• Industrial Sector: AI applications within manufacturing and automation.
• Agricultural Sector: AI’s potential in precision farming and resource management.
• Construction Sector: AI’s role in automation and project management.

Geopolitical Impact: Reduced Chinese Presence

The event noted a significant decrease in the number of Chinese companies in attendance, attributed to the ongoing trade war between the US and China. Despite this reduction, CES 2024 still maintained a substantial international presence with visitors and exhibitors from over 150 countries.

Synthesis

CES 2024 marked a pivotal shift in the perception and application of AI. The event demonstrated a move from theoretical discussion to tangible implementation across diverse industries. Nvidia’s Vera Rubin chip represents a key technological advancement enabling this expansion of AI capabilities, particularly in the realm of “Physical AI Systems.” While geopolitical factors impacted exhibitor participation, the show’s overall scale and international reach underscored the continued importance of CES as a global platform for technological innovation.