The world’s largest tech trade show, CES, has officially arrived. Organized by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the multi-day extravaganza kicks off this week in Las Vegas, showcasing cutting-edge advancements across industries like personal tech, transportation, health care, and sustainability.
And just like in previous years, artificial intelligence is set to dominate the event.
Last year’s CES welcomed over 138,000 attendees, and organizers anticipate a similar turnout for 2025. With more than 4,500 exhibitors—including 1,400 startups—spanning an impressive 2.5 million square feet of floor space, the event promises a spectacle of innovation and collaboration.
Global Tech Leaders Unite in Vegas
CES, once known as the Consumer Electronics Show, draws tech enthusiasts, innovators, and businesses from around the globe. According to CTA CEO Gary Shapiro, nearly 50,000 attendees this year are expected to come from outside the U.S. Big-name brands like Nvidia, Delta Air Lines, Honda, Volvo, Panasonic, and L’Oréal are set to make waves alongside emerging startups.
“These are the people tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges—creating real magic,” Shapiro told the Associated Press ahead of the event.
AI Leads the Charge
Artificial intelligence remains a dominant force at CES 2025. Generative AI, in particular, is influencing every corner of the tech industry. Major exhibitors will unveil AI-driven solutions for productivity, personalization, and mobility. Expect innovations not just in self-driving cars but also in agricultural equipment from companies like John Deere and Caterpillar. Personal tech will also see AI-powered upgrades, especially in PCs and laptops.
Safety Takes the Spotlight
This year’s CES comes on the heels of a tragic incident involving a Cybertruck explosion outside President-elect Donald Trump’s Las Vegas hotel. CES organizers have collaborated with federal, state, and local authorities to enhance security measures, although Shapiro emphasized that specifics cannot be disclosed.
“We’ve made modest changes given recent events but remain focused on ensuring everyone’s safety,” Shapiro stated.
Impact of Tariffs and Industry Challenges
As the incoming Trump administration proposes tariffs on foreign goods, industry leaders express concerns about potential price hikes on essential tech products. Shapiro warned that tariffs could increase prices for items like PCs, smartphones, and smartwatches by 30–50%, reducing accessibility and possibly sparking retaliatory actions from other nations.
Looking Ahead
Beyond showcasing gadgets, CES 2025 highlights technology’s role in addressing critical global issues, from clean water access to improved health care solutions. With a growing emphasis on inclusive innovation—such as assistive technologies for the disability community—the event underscores the industry’s potential to drive meaningful change.
Amid heightened security and economic uncertainty, CES 2025 remains a beacon of optimism, creativity, and technological progress.
