Bloomberg Tech: Asia CES Special 1/7/26

Key Concepts

• Embodied AI: Integrating AI into physical forms like robots, enhancing functionality and interaction.
• Convergence of Physical & Digital: The increasing blending of the physical and digital worlds, exemplified by robotics and AI-powered devices.
• Memory Chip Shortage: A current industry challenge leading to price increases in AI-related devices and other electronics.
• Asian Tech Dominance: The significant presence and influence of Asian companies (China, Japan, South Korea) at CES.
• B2B vs. B2C Robotics: The distinction between robots targeted at businesses (industrial applications) and those aimed at consumers (entertainment, home use).
• AI Living: Samsung’s concept of seamlessly integrating AI into all aspects of daily life through its product ecosystem.
• Supply Chain Issues: Ongoing concerns regarding semiconductor availability and its impact on device pricing and production.

CES 2026: A Shift Towards Embodied AI and Asian Innovation

Introduction

This report summarizes key takeaways from a special edition of “Bloomberg Tech Asia” broadcast live from CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The broadcast highlighted a shift in focus at CES, from purely digital AI to the convergence of physical and digital technologies, particularly embodied AI and robotics. A dominant theme was the increasing influence of Asian tech companies at the event.

I. Event Overview & Key Trends

CES 2026 hosted over 4,000 exhibitors and 140,000 attendees, demonstrating its continued significance as a major technology showcase. Annabelle Dimmock and Shery Ahn, the anchors, noted a key difference from previous years: a strong emphasis on “embodied AI” – AI integrated into physical forms. This manifested in a wide range of products, from robot dogs and massage machines to experimental flying vehicles. While innovative concepts like flying cars remain prevalent, the focus extends beyond futuristic prototypes to practical applications and potential market viability.

II. Supply Chain Concerns & Price Increases

A significant concern discussed was the ongoing shortage of memory chips. This shortage is already driving up prices, particularly for AI-related devices. Samsung confirmed they are actively increasing prices in response to these supply constraints. One company interviewed was proactively stockpiling memory chips in anticipation of further shortages. This situation highlights the vulnerability of the tech industry to supply chain disruptions and the potential impact on consumer costs.

III. Asian Tech Presence & Strategy

Asian companies represent approximately 50% of the attendees at CES 2026, with China, Japan, and South Korea leading the charge. Korean startups, in particular, secured a large portion of the Eureka Park space dedicated to startups and innovation. The anchors noted that Chinese companies are increasingly using CES as a platform to expand into international markets, driven by intense competition within their domestic market. This demonstrates a strategic shift towards global expansion for Asian tech firms.

IV. Deep Robotics: Embodied AI in Action

The broadcast featured an interview with a representative from Deep Robotics, a Chinese startup specializing in embodied AI. The company showcased its N20 Pro robot, designed for package delivery, patrol, and inspection tasks.

• N20 Pro Specifications: This wheel-based robot boasts a 2-hour operational time on a single charge, with autonomous recharging capabilities and high mobility.
• Market Focus: Deep Robotics primarily targets the B2B market, serving traditional manufacturers and high-tech companies.
• Sales & ROI: The company has already sold approximately 100 N20 Pro units in the US market since its launch in July of the previous year. They claim customers can achieve a 200% return on investment by replacing human labor with their robots.
• Data Security: Addressing potential concerns about being a Chinese company, Deep Robotics emphasized its commitment to data privacy, stating that all data remains in the hands of US customers and they operate as an AI helper with local companies.
• N30 Robot: Deep Robotics also showcased the N30, a four-legged robot capable of carrying a 40kg load and patrolling for two hours, even in challenging environments like tunnels.
• Future Focus: The company is also exploring humanoid robots, recognizing their potential for tasks like factory assembly and home assistance, but currently prioritizes robots suited for immediate, practical applications.
• Growth Projections: Deep Robotics anticipates at least doubling its revenue in the US market in 2026, citing the professionalism and financial capacity of US customers.

V. Samsung’s “AI Living” Strategy & Market Outlook

An interview with a Samsung executive revealed the company’s strategy of integrating AI across its entire product portfolio, themed “Your Companion to AI Living.”

• Personalized AI Experience: Samsung aims to personalize the AI experience by leveraging data from its diverse range of products – mobile phones, TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, etc. – to understand and cater to individual user needs.
• Market Dynamics: The executive acknowledged the rapid pace of AI development and the need to demonstrate tangible benefits to consumers.
• Semiconductor Supply Issues: Samsung anticipates industry-wide semiconductor supply issues in 2026, potentially leading to price increases. They believe their scale of operations will provide some resilience.
• Competitive Landscape: Despite competition from cheaper TV manufacturers, Samsung aims to differentiate itself through innovative features like its Frame TV, which blends television functionality with art display.
• Demand Outlook: Samsung is optimistic about its 2026 outlook, projecting to outperform the overall market, particularly in mobile phones driven by consumer demand for AI-enhanced features.
• Price Increases: Samsung is already implementing price increases due to rising memory costs, but aims to minimize the burden on consumers.

Conclusion

CES 2026 showcased a clear shift towards embodied AI and the convergence of physical and digital technologies. The event underscored the growing influence of Asian tech companies, particularly from China, Japan, and South Korea. While supply chain challenges and potential price increases remain concerns, companies like Deep Robotics and Samsung are actively innovating and adapting to the evolving landscape, positioning themselves for growth in the AI-driven future. The emphasis on practical applications and B2B solutions suggests a maturing of the robotics market, moving beyond futuristic concepts towards tangible business value.