CES 2026: How AI, robots and Chinese tech are reshaping the future

CES 2026: A Deep Dive into AI, Robotics, and the Rising Influence of Chinese Tech

Key Concepts:

• AI Integration: The pervasive application of Artificial Intelligence across various technologies, from refrigerators to exoskeletons.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars, shuttles, and platforms being developed by companies like Lucid, Uber, Nvidia, Sony, and Zuks.
• Robotics Advancement: Significant progress in robotics, including home robots, companion robots for elder care, and industrial applications.
• Modular Exoskeletons: Wearable robotic systems designed to assist with physical tasks and enhance human capabilities.
• Chinese Tech Expansion: The increasing presence and influence of Chinese technology companies in the global market, particularly at CES.
• AI + Hardware: The strategic combination of Artificial Intelligence with physical devices and machinery.
• Open-Source Development: A collaborative approach to product development, allowing for wider contributions and innovation.

I. The Electrification of First Response & Vehicle Innovation

The broadcast began with a demonstration of an Oshkosh airport rescue fire vehicle, highlighting its electrified version. Traditional diesel versions require a 45-second warm-up period, while the electric model offers immediate operation. Ray Wong emphasized the significance of this technology for first responders, noting the benefit of multiple power options and the elimination of retraining requirements for operators.

The discussion then broadened to the prevalence of vehicles at CES, particularly in the West Hall, showcasing autonomous vehicles from companies like Lucid (in partnership with Uber Neuro), Whimos, and Zuks. Nvidia’s autonomous vehicle platforms were also highlighted. Beyond cars, the conversation extended to ships, boats, and even flying vehicles, though regulatory hurdles for the latter were acknowledged. Sony’s Aphilia, already available in the market, was cited as an example of a vehicle moving beyond concept to reality.

II. Television & Robotics: Cutting-Edge Displays and Assistance

Ray Wong pointed to advancements in television technology, specifically Samsung’s 130-inch microRGB display and LG’s 9-nanometer thin “wallpaper” W6 television. The focus then shifted to the proliferation of robotics at CES. Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot was mentioned, alongside home robots like LG’s Cloyd, designed for tasks like laundry folding and meal preparation.

A key trend identified was the rise of companion robots, particularly for elder care, driven by aging Western populations and declining birth rates. Wong noted improvements in robot functionality, including more natural conversations and reduced lag times, attributing this to advancements in “amification” – making robots more relatable.

III. The AI-Powered Home: From Refrigerators to Floor Cleaners

Mark New showcased an AI-powered refrigerator from Chinese company Chong Hong, capable of keeping fresh meat frozen for up to 33 days due to its “gentle freeze zone insulation” and AI technology. This exemplifies the trend of integrating AI into everyday appliances.

Further illustrating this point, the segment featured XLEN’s AI-driven floor washer, capable of cleaning various surfaces, including kitty litter and wet liquids. Co-founder Terrence Lou expressed excitement about the potential of their product to “make life better.”

IV. China’s Growing Tech Presence at CES

A significant portion of the broadcast focused on the increasing prominence of Chinese technology companies at CES. Impact, a company facilitating the expansion of Chinese businesses overseas, was featured. Chris Pereira, Impact’s CEO and founder, observed a “massive change” in perception towards Chinese tech in 2026, with a growing recognition of its capabilities. He noted that attendees were experiencing Chinese technology firsthand, such as sitting in a Chinese-made car at the show.

Pereira highlighted three key strengths of Chinese tech companies: fast execution, the integration of AI with hardware (robot coffee makers, cocktail makers, vacuums, pool cleaners), and resilience in overcoming past challenges. He specifically mentioned the advancements in the Chinese automotive industry, noting the prevalence of electric vehicles in cities like Shenzhen. He also pointed to the convenience-focused innovations in China, such as drone-based pizza delivery, as potential models for the US market.

V. US-China Tech Collaboration: A Symbiotic Relationship

Pereira emphasized the potential benefits of US-China tech collaboration, stating that innovation often originates in the US while execution and iteration are strengths of Chinese companies. He described a powerful combination when these strengths are combined.

Asentis, co-founded by Jaoong (with degrees from Shanghai Jaoong University and Stanford), was presented as an example of this collaboration. Their modular exoskeleton belt, incorporating AI to provide lift assistance (88 lbs/40 kg), is designed with an open-source platform to encourage US developer contributions. Pereira explained that China possesses a robust manufacturing and supply chain ecosystem, while the US excels in software and open-source development.

VI. Data & Statistics

• CES Attendance: Expected to reach at least 140,000 attendees.
• Exoskeleton Rental Cost (China): 200-300 RMB per day for exoskeleton use, allowing users to climb mountains with assistance.
• LG Wallpaper TV Thickness: 9 nanometers.
• Chong Hong Refrigerator Preservation: Fresh meat can stay frozen for 33 days.
• Chinese Company Representation: At least a quarter of the companies at CES are from China (e.g., BOE).

VII. Notable Quotes

• Ray Wong (on the electrified fire vehicle): “If you think about first responders trying to be able to get on right away, having multiple power options, and more importantly, there's no retraining to be able to get in one of these things. So, I think it's pretty impressive.”
• Chris Pereira (on the strengths of Chinese tech): “We bring the speed of Shenzhen to the world.”
• Terrence Lou (on the goal of XLEN): “The dream is always to create some device or or robots or some hardware to uh makes the life better.”
• Chris Pereira (on US-China collaboration): “Innovation comes from the US, iteration and execution comes from China. If that's combined, that's a powerful combination.”

Conclusion:

CES 2026 showcased a landscape dominated by AI integration, robotics advancements, and the growing influence of Chinese technology. The event highlighted not only cutting-edge innovations in areas like autonomous vehicles, displays, and home appliances but also a shift in perception towards Chinese tech companies, recognizing their strengths in execution, AI-hardware integration, and resilience. The potential for US-China collaboration, leveraging the respective strengths of each nation, emerged as a key theme, suggesting a future where innovation is driven by a symbiotic relationship between these two technological powerhouses. The emphasis on practical applications and real-world solutions, rather than purely conceptual ideas, underscored a trend towards technologies designed to improve daily life.