Remarkable Surprises Unveiled at CES 2026

The 2026 Consumer Electronics Show didn’t fall short of astonishing us with unexpected announcements and trends.

Motorola's Book-Style Foldable

Motorola has been strongly associated with its iconic clamshell flip phones, perfectly resonating with the Razr brand spirit. However, they've taken an unexpected leap with the introduction of a book-style foldable. This product retains the Razr heritage while indicating the brand's move towards futuristic innovation, moving beyond mere nostalgia.

Wi-Fi 7's Anticipated Successor

While industry giants like Asus and MediaTek participated in the conference, the successor to Wi-Fi 7, IEEE 802.11bn, is slated for a full release only in 2028. Yet, they plan to begin selling devices based on its draft specification later this year. This advanced technology might require updates to align with the finalized standard, evoking memories of past technology transitions that left some devices unsupported.

Innovative Robot Vacuums

2025 introduced us to robot vacuums with arms, but 2026 brought a new evolution: vacuums with legs. These new models, capable of climbing stairs, replace arm functionality with a more versatile movement ability. This advancement addresses challenges for homes with stairs, setting the stage for future models that might incorporate both arms and legs.

Television Trends at CES

While CES is renowned for displaying extravagant TV designs, it also provides insights into more attainable future models. Last year, brands showcased a range of affordable TVs, but this year the focus skewed heavily towards large, expensive displays. While options like Amazon's Ember Artline and LG's newer models were present, widespread affordable television options seemed notably absent.

Foldable Phone Screens on the Horizon

Samsung's demonstration of advanced foldable screens hinted at the nearing possibility of mass-market-ready foldable smartphones. Given Samsung's role as a supplier for Apple, this trend suggests potential developments in Apple's product line, although a release seems contingent on further design refinements.

Shifts in Automotive Presence

Once a major event for automotive showcases, CES has pivoted this year towards AI-driven technologies. Hyundai brought attention with a humanoid robot, while Mercedes analyzed cutting-edge driver-assist systems. Sony and Honda's collaborative effort, the Afeela SUV, made an appearance, yet traditional car unveilings were sparse, reflecting broader market shifts.