CES 2026 is shaping up to be the most influential tech event of the decade. Every January, the world’s most powerful technology brands, innovators, and media gather in Las Vegas to showcase the next wave of advancements — from AI-powered devices to smart mobility, digital health, robotics, and immersive entertainment.
This year’s edition, running January 6–9, 2026, promises to be bigger than ever. Over 4,000 exhibitors and 142,000 attendees are expected to fill the Las Vegas Convention Center and surrounding venues. But who exactly is attending, which companies are exhibiting, and how can you make the most of this massive event? Let’s dive in.
The Pulse of CES 2026: What to Expect
CES has evolved from a gadget show into a global innovation ecosystem. It’s not just about flashy tech launches anymore — it’s where entire industries converge to discuss what’s next for AI, sustainability, mobility, and digital transformation.
In 2026, expect a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automotive Tech, Smart Homes, Digital Health, and Sustainability. The show will spotlight how AI integrates across every sector — from self-driving cars and generative AI tools to connected devices that simplify daily life.
Every corner of CES is designed for discovery — whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking funding, a corporate leader scouting partnerships, or a journalist chasing the next big story.
Who’s Attending CES 2026?
CES attracts an incredibly diverse and high-profile audience. Here’s a breakdown of who you’ll find walking the show floors:
1. Global Tech Giants
Expect the return of heavyweights like Samsung, LG, Sony, Intel, Qualcomm, NVIDIA, Lenovo, Panasonic, and Dell. These companies dominate the largest halls with immersive booths and headline-making keynotes. From next-gen displays to AI-driven chips, their launches set the tone for the entire tech industry.
2. Automotive Innovators
CES has become the world’s premier auto tech showcase. Brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Tesla, and Honda use the platform to reveal concept cars, EV advancements, and in-car entertainment experiences powered by AI and connectivity.
3. AI, Robotics & Automation Startups
Startups are the heartbeat of CES. In Eureka Park — the dedicated startup zone — expect hundreds of emerging companies showing off breakthroughs in robotics, machine learning, automation, and sustainable technology. These innovators often attract media buzz and investor attention.
4. Investors & Venture Capitalists
Where there’s innovation, there’s investment. CES attracts VCs, angel investors, and corporate innovation teams scouting the next unicorns. For startups, having your booth ready and your pitch perfected is key.
5. Media, Analysts & Influencers
Thousands of journalists, analysts, and tech influencers attend CES to report live on launches and trends. The event generates billions of media impressions, making it the ideal platform for global exposure.
6. Buyers & Business Decision-Makers
From retail chains to OEMs and B2B distributors, buyers attend CES looking for partnerships and sourcing opportunities. These are the decision-makers who can take a startup from concept to commercialization.
The Biggest Exhibitors at CES 2026
While the final exhibitor list keeps expanding, these sectors and brands are expected to make the biggest splash this year:
✅ Consumer Electronics: Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Hisense showcasing cutting-edge displays, smart devices, and home entertainment systems.
✅ Semiconductors & Chips: Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm leading the conversation on AI hardware and edge computing.
✅ Automotive & Mobility: Hyundai, Bosch, Panasonic Automotive, and BMW unveiling EV tech, battery innovation, and autonomous driving systems.
✅ Health & Wellness Tech: Philips, Withings, Fitbit, and dozens of startups redefining telehealth and wearable diagnostics.
✅ Sustainability Tech: New exhibitors in renewable energy, green AI, and eco-friendly materials pushing for a cleaner tech future.
✅ Gaming & Immersive Tech: Meta, HTC Vive, and PlayStation showcasing AR/VR experiences and next-gen gaming hardware.
CES 2026 is not only a showcase of technology — it’s a preview of the next industrial revolution driven by intelligence, data, and design.
Startups Taking Center Stage
One of the most exciting aspects of CES 2026 is Eureka Park, the startup arena that has launched countless success stories. This is where innovators introduce solutions that may redefine industries within just a few years.
Expect startups in categories like:
✅ AI assistants and voice technology
✅ Smart mobility and micromobility
✅ Green energy and sustainable living
✅ Biotech and digital healthcare
✅ Wearable technology
✅ Cybersecurity and data protection
If you’re attending CES to network or invest, Eureka Park is a must-visit — it’s where raw innovation meets opportunity.
How to Navigate CES Like a Pro
Attending CES is exhilarating — and overwhelming. With thousands of exhibitors spread across multiple venues, having a clear plan is essential. Here’s how to make your time count:
1. Use Data Smartly
A reliable attendee and exhibitor list can make or break your CES experience. Knowing who’s there before you arrive helps you book valuable meetings and avoid missed opportunities.
2. Schedule Meetings Early
High-value attendees’ calendars fill up fast. Start outreach at least 4–6 weeks before CES.
3. Leverage Technology
Use digital tools to organize your schedule, map booths, and take notes efficiently.
4. Network Everywhere
Some of the best deals at CES happen outside the show floor — in lounges, dinners, and networking events.
5. Follow Up Fast
Send personalized follow-ups within 48 hours to turn conversations into lasting relationships.
VisitorsList: Your Trusted Data Partner for CES
If you want to maximize your CES impact, having access to accurate and verified attendee and exhibitor data is crucial. That’s where VisitorsList comes in.
VisitorsList is a leading data provider that specializes in event-based B2B contact lists — including CES attendees, exhibitors, and decision-makers. Their CES-specific database includes verified company profiles, contact details, and segmentation by industry, allowing marketers and sales teams to:
✅ Identify target prospects before the event
✅ Schedule high-value meetings with exhibitors and buyers
✅ Create custom outreach campaigns tailored to CES 2026 participants
✅ Build strategic partnerships with top innovators and investors
Whether you’re a startup looking for exposure or an enterprise seeking market insights, VisitorsList helps you navigate CES with precision and purpose. Instead of wasting time trying to find the right contacts, you can focus on building meaningful connections that drive real business outcomes.
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Why Data Is the New Competitive Edge at CES
At an event as massive as CES, information is everything. The companies that arrive prepared — armed with data, contact intelligence, and clear priorities — often walk away with the most valuable opportunities.
Here’s why using a data provider like VisitorsList gives you an edge:
✅ Pre-Qualified Contacts: Save time by reaching decision-makers directly.
✅ Improved ROI: Maximize every conversation by targeting companies that fit your goals.
✅ Faster Networking: Skip the guessing game and focus on qualified leads.
✅ Actionable Insights: Use attendee data to segment audiences for follow-up marketing.
CES is where deals are made and trends are set. Data-driven planning ensures you’re not just attending — you’re competing strategically.
How Exhibitors Can Stand Out at CES 2026
With thousands of booths competing for attention, exhibitors need to deliver memorable experiences. Here are a few ways to make your presence count:
- Design Interactive Booths: Demos and live experiences attract traffic better than static displays.
- Leverage Storytelling: Tell a clear, emotionally engaging story that ties technology to real-world impact.
- Optimize for Media Coverage: Have press kits ready and schedule interviews during media days.
- Promote Across Channels: Use LinkedIn, email, and VisitorsList data to invite attendees to your booth before the event.
- Follow Up Smartly: After CES, re-engage every contact with relevant case studies or offers.
When done right, CES can generate an entire year’s worth of leads in just four days.
For Visitors: How to Find the Right Exhibitors
For attendees, CES can feel overwhelming — but with smart planning, it becomes a goldmine of opportunity.
Here’s how to get the most out of it:
- Download the Official CES App for real-time updates, maps, and schedules.
- Use VisitorsList Data to identify must-see exhibitors and arrange meetings in advance.
- Focus on Key Zones — target specific halls like Automotive Tech, Health Tech, or Smart Home to stay aligned with your interests.
- Take Notes Efficiently — record booth details and follow-up actions on the spot.
- Stay Flexible — sometimes, the most valuable encounters are unplanned.
CES 2026: The Future, Revealed
From AI companions to flying cars and eco-conscious tech, CES 2026 will define the roadmap for the next generation of innovation. It’s a glimpse into the technologies shaping how we live, work, move, and connect.
Whether you’re attending as a tech enthusiast, an exhibitor, or an investor, preparation is key. Leverage tools like VisitorsList to gain visibility into who’s attending, plan your meetings in advance, and turn CES into a measurable success story for your brand.
Final Thoughts
CES 2026 isn’t just another trade show — it’s a launchpad for the future. The brands that win here are those that combine innovation, storytelling, and data-driven precision.
So start planning now: secure your booth, define your goals, and use VisitorsList to power your outreach strategy. With the right preparation, you’ll walk away from CES not just inspired — but connected, informed, and ready to lead the conversation for 2026 and beyond.
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