The world of technology stands poised on the brink of transformation as CES 2026 unfolds in Las Vegas. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from a nascent experiment to a fundamental force reshaping our interactions with technology. From vehicles to smart home systems, and indeed across the spectrum of robotics, AI is becoming a seamlessly integrated presence in our daily lives. At CES 2026, the spotlight will be on how AI and advanced compute technology are redefining this landscape.
This year’s exhibition showcases two prevailing forces in the AI sphere: Physical AI and Edge AI. Physical AI, epitomized by vehicles, robots, and machines, enables these entities to perceive the world, understand complex dynamics, and interact safely within real environments. Meanwhile, Edge AI enhances user experiences by bringing intelligence closer to the devices we use daily, ensuring that they are responsive, private, and tailored to personal needs.
Intriguingly, these domains are beginning to overlap in exciting ways, with extended reality (XR) tools serving as training grounds for robots, wearables that intuitively predict needs, and devices capable of on-the-fly adaptation. The heavy lifting of these intelligent systems is being underpinned by the robust Arm compute platform, powering the perception and reasoning that brings machines to life.
Autonomous Experiences Ascend to New Heights
One of the key narratives at CES 2026 is the seismic shift toward AI-defined automotive platforms. Here, real-time perception and decision-making become foundational, driven by consumer demand for more aware and efficient mobility solutions. This evolution is evidenced by Rivian’s autonomy platform, built on Arm’s technology. Meanwhile, Tesla’s AI5 chip offers dramatic improvements in AI performance, embodying the shift from driver-assistance to true autonomy.
Further illustrating this trend, the NVIDIA DRIVE Thor platform propels WeRide’s Level 4 Robotaxi GXR, while collaboration with autonomy pioneers like Nuro and Zoox fine-tunes their operations. Visitors to CES will witness the potential of these technologies at the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor Developer Kit showcase. Integration is rapidly advancing, as seen in Siemens’ PAVE360™ technology and collaborative efforts with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud.
A Revolution in Robotics and On-Device AI
CES 2026 also heralds a new chapter for robotics, as advancements in sensor technology, energy-efficient compute, and low-power systems enable large-scale autonomous deployment. Industrial inspection and emergency operation robots, like DEEP Robotics’ LYNX M20 Pro, demonstrate how AI-driven machines can conquer challenging terrains. Humanoids from Agility Robotics, AGIBOT, and Galbot showcase significant strides in commercial applications, spanning manufacturing to retail environments.
In the consumer device space, AI’s pervasive influence is evident. The Arm compute platform delivers swift and efficient on-device intelligence across PCs, laptops, and tablets. Notably, the expanding portfolio of Windows on Arm models underscores the mainstream adoption of AI-optimized personal computing. In tandem, Apple’s M-series Macs and Google Chromebooks combine stellar performance with impressive battery life.
Wearables and Smart Homes Embrace Smart Innovation
With wearables and everyday gadgets becoming smarter, CES 2026 serves as a stage for innovations like Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses and Oura Ring Gen 4. These devices showcase how AI can be effortlessly woven into daily life while maintaining a discreet presence. The multitude of devices powered by Arm technology illustrates how wearables are growing from basic tools into sophisticated partners in personal health and convenience.
In the home technology domain, the shift is towards systems that are both smarter and more autonomous. Factors like increasing energy costs and privacy concerns are driving the move toward locally processed intelligence. Smart displays and hubs are taking on more on-device AI tasks, revolutionizing the control and integration of smart home functionalities.
Ultimately, CES 2026 paints a vivid image of the future—one where cutting-edge intelligence is deeply embedded in every facet of technology. This transformation, powered by Arm, ensures extraordinary, efficient, and reliable experiences, fulfilling the promise of a seamlessly intelligent world. As AI becomes ubiquitous, adapting to our lifestyles and environments, it heralds a new era of technological innovation.