The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 to Emphasize Advanced Manufacturing
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA), organizer of the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES), has announced that CES 2026, scheduled for January 6-9, 2026, in Las Vegas, will focus on next-generation manufacturing. The event will highlight the integration of automation, robotics, industrial software, advanced materials, supply chain management, and artificial intelligence (AI) in production.
Why the Shift Matters
Traditionally, CES has been associated with consumer devices and product launches. However, the CTA asserts that technological discourse is shifting from products to how they are designed, built, and delivered. Gary Shapiro, CEO and vice president of the CTA, stated, “Manufacturing is rapidly transforming, and CES 2026 will showcase what’s needed to build the next industrial era.”
Industrial Showcase at CES 2026
The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) will host a connected manufacturing experience across Central, North, and South Halls. Key attractions include:
- Advanced Manufacturing Showcase: A collaboration between CTA and SME, located in Central Hall (booth #15425), focusing on automation, advanced materials, and industrial software, along with exhibitors showcasing transformative technologies.
- South Hall: This area will concentrate on the global ecosystem of design, supply chain, and production, featuring demonstrations that turn ideas into market-ready products.
- North Hall: This section will focus on industrial robotics, simulation software, and AI-powered systems for productivity, safety, and supply chain performance.
Manufacturing Track and Robotics Applications
Beyond the exhibition halls, CTA has introduced a new Manufacturing Track within the conference program, open to all attendees. Notable speakers include:
- Jay Timmons, President and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), in a discussion with Shapiro.
- Jeannine Kunz, Executive Director of SME, focusing on emerging training models, skill development, and workforce technology.
The agenda includes sessions connecting manufacturing with AI, energy, and mobility, including topics on “beyond AI” technologies, redesigning the manufacturing landscape, and transformation through AI partnerships. Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG, will present on how AI and digital twins are ushering in a new era of intelligent production, transforming manufacturing, infrastructure, and transportation.
E-commerce Focus
While the industrial emphasis is clear, CTA aims to create a multifaceted CES 2026 experience. In the retail sector, innovation will take center stage, with AI-driven personalization, omnichannel ecosystems, and social shopping technologies.
- Corie Barry, CEO of Best Buy, will participate in a conversation with Michael Kassan (3C Ventures) at C Space, discussing how to align people, software, and services for frictionless shopping experiences.
By positioning CES 2026 as a platform where technology’s value is measured by its ability to translate into production and industry, the CTA seeks to redefine the event as more than just a gadget showcase.
