Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 7-10 of January 2020 the CES is known as the biggest trade show focusing on consumer technologies. At the event companies like Sony, LG and Samsung typically present their newest products and technologies regarding consumer electronics. VP & Principal Analyst Thomas Husson shared his initial take ahead of the event.
“Given the massive number of start-ups and large consumer electronic brands announcing new products at the show, it is difficult to stand out from the crowd at CES. That said, this annual tech bonanza gathering is always a key opportunity to put technology-led innovation in context of broader key trends impacting businesses.
Most discussions are likely to be centred on how companies in automotive, health, and smart home industries plan to leverage AI, automation and robotics to launch new offerings and experiences. Whether robot vacuum cleaners with security cameras or new brain-sensing wearable devices generate the most hype remains to be seen, what’s for sure is that privacy and security questions will be front and centre. Consumers are increasingly in search of deeper meaning and look at technology not just as a way to improve their daily lifestyle but also to minimise climate change. Expect a lot more innovation this year both around individual wellness and collective tech for good initiatives.
While not new, the focus on new products powered by advanced audio technologies, augmented reality and computer vision will accelerate. Adding sensors to computing machines and peripherals will humanise technology and enable consumers to scan and interact with the world around them. While early days, these technologies will make contextual marketing more powerful.
8K displays, OLED/QLED TVs, foldable or roll-able screens, new line of smart appliances and connected products from the likes of Samsung, LG, or Sony won’t really get noticed because what matters is how they truly morph into total consumer experiences powered by content and personalised services. The likely focus on 5G connectivity will fail CMOs and business executives too. To consumers, 5G in 2020 will feel like 3G in 2004 or 4G in 2010. It won’t enable new business or marketing use cases due to a lack of critical mass – and will primarily remain a hot debate between telcos, network equipment vendors and industrial firms.”
