CES 2021 goes virtual


The world's largest tech trade show, CES, which attracted the who's who of the tech industry from across the globe showcasing their new and exciting products will be for the first time going fully digital next year says Chandragupta Amritkar.

It was truly a sad news for us in the media – especially with us having made it a ritual to cover the tech show (Global Technologies has covered it for 15 consecutive years). And we are sure many tech enthusiasts will be miss the first hand feel while those who used to crib about the crowds will miss the maddening crowds and large gatherings in convention halls and outsized audiences at the keynote sessions. All this thanks to COVID-19.

"Amid the pandemic and growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it’s just not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person," said CTA president and CEO Gary Shapiro.

CES 2021, originally scheduled to be held January 6 – 9 in Las Vegas will now take place January 11-14 virtually. While this is definitely bad news for those who have been enthralled by the physical feel of the products, technologies and human touch, the organisers feel the switch to an online-only platform will open it up to a larger audience.

“An all-digital CES 2021 will allow the entire tech community to safely share ideas and introduce the products that will shape our future. You’ll be able to participate in all the awe-inspiring moments of CES wherever you are in the world. We are designing a unique experience for the tech industry,” said the organisers.

For more than 50 years, CES has been the global stage for innovation. And CES 2021 will continue to be a platform to launch products, engage with global brands and define the future of the tech industry. With the growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it is not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person.

The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) is reimagining how to connect exhibitors, customers, thought leaders and media from around the world while prioritizing health and safety. Technology has helped us all work, learn and connect during the coronavirus pandemic, and it has presented real solutions to help solve complex global challenges. We recognize that, particularly in these uncertain times, it is the partnerships of some of the most creative minds that bring the best solutions to life.

CES 2021 will offer a highly personalized experience:

Keynotes and conferences: Now guests will have a front-row seat for groundbreaking announcements and insights from the world’s tech leaders completely online.

Product showcase: With this digital evolution of the CES show floor, guests will be able to explore products and services, based on your interests and business, through dynamic product showcases or live demos.

Meetings and networking: Guests will be able to engage with the brands, thought leaders and business connections you care about with live interactions, meetings or roundtable discussions.

The event is scheduled from January 11-14. The show plans to return to Las Vegas for CES 2022, combining the best elements of a physical and digital show.

January 11 : Exclusive media-only access
January 12 : Exhibitor showcase and conference programming
January 13 : Exhibitor showcase and conference programming
January 14 : Conference programming