Walking through the 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space felt like stepping into the future — except the future isn’t coming anymore. It’s here. With more than 4100 exhibitors, including some 1200 startups, CES 2026 showcased tech that’s not just theoretical but practical, solving real-world challenges and seamlessly integrating into our lives. From AI-driven health solutions to next-gen mobility, this was the proving ground for ideas that will shape the next decade.

There was still plenty to do and see on the final day of CES 2026. Sharks and senators took center stage, attendees made their final rounds on the show floor and we said goodbye to our new humanoid friends.

One of the most buzzed-about events of the day was the Shark Tank Open Casting Call at the Venetian Expo. No CES badge? No problem. Entrepreneurs lined up for their shot at Season 18, armed with one-minute pitches that had to be clear, concise and — most importantly — convincing. The process mirrored what you see on TV: one casting team member, one chance to make an impression. And with only three open calls nationwide in 2026, this was a golden opportunity for bold visionaries to pitch their next big idea and make it count.

Tech isn’t just about products — it’s about governance. At the Innovation Policy Summit, Senators Jacky Rosen, Ben Ray Lujan and Gary Peters held a conversation on the policies needed to unlock innovation and provide guardrails around technology development. The senators touched on efforts to close the digital divide and expand access to reliable internet, ensuring security in biotechnology, supporting advances in health technology and powering up life-saving advances in automotive and self-driving technology. It was a powerful reminder that innovation doesn’t happen in a vacuum — it needs thoughtful guidelines and safeguards to thrive.

Walking the show floor this year felt like stepping into an energy revolution. CES 2026 showcased game-changing solutions that are transforming how we move, work and live.

From battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to plug-in hybrids and extended-range EVs, innovation was everywhere — whether you have plans for cruising on an e-bike or powering heavy-duty construction and agricultural equipment.

And it didn’t stop at transportation. Breakthroughs in large-scale and home battery storage, smart energy management devices and portable power systems are making grids more reliable and meeting the world’s growing energy demands. Some of the trailblazers leading the charge? Donut Lab, Evotrex, Flint Paper Battery, Jackery, KEPCO, SPOG Trailers, Stryten Energy and Superheat — just to name a few.

Wearables are becoming essential across health, fitness, accessibility and even entertainment. And the momentum is undeniable — especially with the rise of smart glasses, AR eyewear and the booming smartwatch and smart ring markets.

This year, smart glasses took a major leap forward. Imagine hands-free living powered by generative AI voice interfaces — perfect for daily tasks. Add in features like real-time translation, voice recording and even QR code payments, and suddenly your glasses aren’t just smart, they’re indispensable. Health-focused wearables were also in the spotlight. We saw earbuds aiming for FDA approval to double as over-the-counter hearing aids, advanced ECG smartwatches and smart rings that pack serious health-tracking power.

CES 2026 wasn’t just an event — it was a statement. The world’s biggest tech show reminded us that innovation doesn’t wait. It moves fast, and if you’re not paying attention, you’ll miss the moment when the future becomes the present. We’ll see you next year for CES 2027 — where we’ll celebrate 60 years of CES! Mark your calendars for January 6-9.