As CES 2026 approaches, anticipation builds for another thrilling showcase of technological innovations in Las Vegas. From January 6 to 9, the city will once again transform into a vibrant arena of dazzling LED displays, state-of-the-art robotic demonstrations, and an array of AI-powered solutions that could light up an entire city. This event maintains its status as a cornerstone for tech enthusiasts globally, with it being the perfect stage for tech giants to unveil their newest advancements in wearable technology.
CES has evolved significantly over the years, particularly in the realm of wearable tech. Once dominated by smartwatches and fitness trackers, the event is now set to spotlight a diverse range of technologies. Expect breakthroughs in smart glasses, rings, and watches, each integrating advanced AI to push the boundaries of health and wellness monitoring. Renowned names like Samsung and Garmin are joined by innovative start-ups vying for a share of the burgeoning smart ring market, setting the stage for products that promise to enhance personal well-being like never before.
Garmin: Revisiting Fitness Essentials
Garmin, a veteran presence at CES, typically reserves major device launches for other venues. Having updated its prominent lines—Fenix, Forerunner, and Venu—throughout 2025, it seems unlikely that we will see significant new unveilings at CES 2026. However, industry whispers suggest a long-overdue update to their entry-level fitness band, heralding the likely arrival of the Garmin Vivosmart 6. This prediction aligns with recent patent filings showing groundbreaking innovations, which might find their way into upcoming high-end devices like the Fenix 9 later this year.
Fitbit: An Unexpected Comeback?
The narrative surrounding Fitbit at CES 2026 carries an element of unpredictability. The company has been notably subdued as Google pivots attention toward its Pixel Watch lineup. However, a recent announcement from Google about new Fitbit hardware expected in 2026 has sparked hopes for a revival. A potential unveiling of the Fitbit Charge 7 or an enhanced Luxe 2 could reaffirm their commitment to affordable, efficient health tracking. Speculation is rife about a new venture into the smart ring market, potentially offering a low-cost alternative to premium players like Oura, although Google has yet to indicate any concrete plans on this front.
Samsung: Trailblazing in XR and Smart Rings
Samsung’s extensive CES showing will span a variety of categories, though the health tech segment remains a focal point this year. While a new Galaxy Watch doesn’t appear on the immediate horizon, anticipatory hints about the Galaxy Ring 2 might electrify attendees. A noteworthy revelation could emerge from the realm of extended reality (XR), where Samsung collaborates with Google and Qualcomm. Attendees await a substantial update on this front since Samsung’s Galaxy XR headset debut in late 2025, especially developments involving partnerships with leading eyewear brands.
Amazfit: Ready for the Rugged
Zepp Health (Amazfit) is ready to make waves with its upcoming wearables, likely debuting the Amazfit Active Max at CES 2026. This rugged, feature-laden watch aims to blend resilience with advanced functionality, appealing to tech-savvy adventurers. Meanwhile, rumors of a Falcon 2, enhanced with superior AI coaching and mapping, suggest a compelling follow-up to their initial premium multi-sport watch entry. However, new releases may stagger, as Amazfit traditionally unveils only one major device per event.
Withings: The Unpredictable Innovator
Withings has cultivated a reputation for pushing the envelope at CES, historically launching groundbreaking health tools like the U-Scan and the BeamO. With a tradition of steering clear of predictable updates, they might continue this momentum, possibly introducing evolutions in their health operating systems. While the market remains mum on specific leaks, Withings is poised to surprise with its innovation-driven approach, perhaps unveiling a special edition of its ScanWatch without necessarily rolling out an entirely new version.
The Smart Ring Arena
2026 is shaping up as a pivotal year for smart rings, as the legal landscape stabilizes, allowing the field to mature and expand. At CES 2026, consumers can anticipate an exciting mix of reveals from industry leaders, spotlighting innovations that promise to redefine the smart ring experience across various applications.
CES 2026 promises to be a captivating event, with pioneering wearable technology and AI-driven health solutions taking center stage. As always, what emerges from Las Vegas will shape tech trends and consumer expectations in the months to come. Stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage of these innovations post-event, bringing you the latest insights and analyses.