CES 2021: Robotics, smart devices, digital health take centre stage at the event

For the first time ever, the Consumer Electronics Show 2021 is being held online. Gary Shapiro, president and chief executive of the group, said the first all-digital show would be “showcasing the latest trends and innovation in artificial intelligence, 5G, digital health, smart cities, vehicle tech and beyond.” Representational Image Digital CES is relying on artificial intelligence to match interests indicated in attendee profiles with exhibitors, hoping to put a software spin on the serendipity of stumbling upon cool products on show-floors. Some unveilings that would normally draw crowds in Las Vegas are going ahead in the virtual space: Audi is set to launch its electric sports car, and LG will show off a large bendable display for gamers; other companies will be releasing gadgets adapted to superfast 5G wireless networks which are gaining traction. “A large part of the show is likely to be missing in action,” said Richard Windsor, an independent technology analyst who writes the Radio Free Mobile blog. “CES is one of the most experiential events in the world, where attendees can actually see and touch and experience the latest innovations,” CTA spokeswoman Jean Foster said during a briefing ahead of the show.