• Written by Phil Zamloot
  • The Shows | Aug 20, 2025
  • Written by Phil Zamloot
  • The Shows | Aug 20, 2025

What to Expect at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES)

Key Takeaways

An insider’s look at the Consumer Electronics Show CES: 

  • Learn about diverse product categories
  • Get a glimpse of impressive trade show exhibits from industry leaders like BMW and Hyundai
  • Understand why you should consider exhibiting at CES

As a potential exhibitor, this article will inspire and help you maximize your experience.

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is called the “world’s largest and most influential technology show,” and there’s no doubt it has played an important role in shaping our world. Many of the consumer electronics we use today were first exhibited in these shows.

The event is owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and attracts business professionals from around the world to Las Vegas every January.  With arguably the most media presence at any trade show, CES makes an impression like no other event.

Product and Service Categories at CES

Here are some of the product and service categories that are displayed:

  • 3D Printing
  • 5G Technologies
  • AR/VR/XR
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Audio Technologies
  • Car Audio
  • Cloud Computing/Data
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital Currency/Cryptocurrency
  • Drones
  • Energy/Power
  • Entertainment and Content
  • Fintech
  • Fitness and Wearables
  • Gaming and Esports
  • High-Tech Retailing/E-Commerce
  • Home Office Hardware and Accessories
  • Mobile Hardware and Accessories
  • Quantum Computing
  • Robotics
  • Smart Home and Appliances
  • Sports Technology

 

One of the most notable tech products to get its start at CES was the VCR in 1970, and it became a huge success (it’s hard to believe there was nothing like it before that!).

CES allows consumers, business professionals, and tech enthusiasts to see what’s new in electronic and digital technology. Every year, thousands of new products are shown off at this event—and many of them go on to become household names, like the CD and DVR players, Sir, and, of course, Nintendo.

5 Examples of Best and Biggest Brands to Exhibit at CES 2022

Every year, CES attendees can expect highly interactive trade show exhibits and futuristic experiences. This year was especially exciting given that the previous year was an online-only event due to the pandemic. After a year of being limited to virtual, brands took advantage of their creative freedom to display their latest innovations offline.

In January 2022, the show hosted more than 2,300 exhibits across 1.6 million square feet of show-floor space at the Las Vegas Convention Center. While in-person attendance was understandably down from their previous shows, it was still a groundbreaking event that exceeded expectations. The 2023 edition is expected to be completely “back to normal,”–though “normal” at CES is difficult to define!

1. Richtech Robotics

Source: Taken from @richtechrobotics on Instagram

Richtech Robotics showed off its electronic helper, ADAM, a unique robot capable of mixing drinks and making coffee. It has an Intel AI depth sensor camera, which helps coordinate and judge distances. It can provide complete, autonomous service for repetitive tasks like making coffee. ADAM could even be used to flip burgers.

This technology could be well used in large fast food chains having systemized food prep processes. Its skills were tested during the show, and attendees could watch Adam make a perfect cup of coffee from start to finish.

 

2. Opteev Technologies

Photo by Steve Winter

Opteev Technologies’ new line of instant self-diagnosis and monitoring products, ViraWarn, was one of the most topical exhibit booths and a hit at this year’s CES. These products could detect any spike virus in the air, including influenza, SARS viruses, and all variants of COVID-19, helping people to be more aware of their surroundings.

The exhibit booth had a very clean and impressive build, with SARS virus particles dangling over the ceiling, grabbing the attention of attendees.

3. SK Telecom Co. Ltd.

Source: SK

SK Telecom was one of the most talked about trade show exhibits at the CES this year. Their 50 by 70-foot exhibit showcased everything the company was best at education, gamification, and immersion. Entitled “Green Forest Pavilion,” the beautiful, experiential design had guests walk through a digital, lush forest-like space to learn about SK Telecom’s commitment to a greener future.

Source: SK

Guests were handed headphones and Near-Field Communication-enabled devices, allowing them to engage with different content in the Green Forest Pavilion’s four zones. Engaging with their expo booths earned the attendees points, incentivizing them to take their time and fully explore the pavilion. 

These points could be exchanged for SK-branded company swag, ranging from recycled tote bags and water bottles to  1TB solid-state memory drives. The exhibit garnered 11,000 attendees and was named the best exhibit this year. 

4. BMW AG

 

Source: BMW

Another experience-rich exhibit at CES 20222 was by BMW AG with the concept “Soul to Soul.” The new BMW iX Flow was unveiled and put right at the center to draw attendees in. From there, they could appreciate its color-changing prowess in action as it changed from a plain colored car to black to white to one with gradients and patterns.

Further into the trade show exhibit, attendees could grab a seat at the Soul to Soul lounge or experience the BMW Theater Screen, the ultimate cinema experience on wheels. Attendees could also experience alternate worlds in Joytopia, inspired by BMW’s My Modes. 

The multi-sensory section featured art by Chinese multimedia artist Cao Fe and music by Hans Zimmer. Attendees could enter four zones: Calm, Confidence, Joy, and Surreal, and engage with the visuals on the screen or see the particles transform into 3D models of the vehicles.

5. Hyundai Mobis

 

Source: Screenshot taken from Hyundai Mobis’ Youtube video

Another impressive exhibit at CES 2022 was the South Korean vehicle technology company Hyundai. Their exhibit, “Joy Park,” allowed attendees to experience Hyundai’s metaverse and test-drive their electronic vehicles in real-life situations like parallel parking and making sharp turns. 

Upon entering, attendees were invited to make their avatars through the tablets available, see them come to life on the huge screens, and walk across the colorful and vibrant Joy Park. The avatars could then get a ride throughout the town while the attendees learned about the car’s features.

Why You Should Exhibit at CES

 

CES is the largest technology conference in the world. If you’re looking for an opportunity to show off your products, it is the perfect place. Every year, over 100,000 industry professionals attend, including CEOs, engineers, designers, and other key decision-makers.

CES offers small and medium businesses an opportunity to get the exposure they wouldn’t normally get at other trade shows where multinationals dominate the spotlight. It’s also a great way to learn about competitors and get valuable feedback from your target audience.

Preparing to Exhibit with Metro Exhibits

 

The CES show floor is a highly-coveted showcase for the latest and greatest products in the electronics industry. If you plan to exhibit at CES, you will need an eye-catching exhibit that will attract attendees and convert them into customers.

Metro Exhibits is located in Las Vegas, and designs and builds trade show displays for every industry and budget. As one of the leading trade show display companies, we’ve handled every project imaginable–from simple banner stands to elaborate multi-decks and industry or country pavilions. Our dedicated team handles every detail from start to finish so you can focus on your trip and presentation.

Count on Metro Exhibits to help you with:

Pre-show Preparation Services

 

  • Booth design
  • Exhibit fabrication
  • Booth rentals
  • Project management
  • Floor plan and manual procurement
  • Tradeshow logistics
  • Venue & labor coordination
  • Audiovisual, electrical, F&B
  • Paperwork and contract management

On-Site Trade Show Display Services

  • Shipping
  • Installation/Dismantle
  • On-Site Supervision
  • Show Services Coordination

Post-Show Trade Show Services at CES

 

  • Shipping
  • Storage

We can offer many other attendee tips, but the most important is to get your booth display designed and built early. Contact us, and let’s see how we can maximize your presence on the show floor with your vision–and our expertise. 

FAQs About the Consumer Electronics Show (CES)

1. What is the Consumer Electronics Show?

 

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) annual trade show showcases the latest innovations in consumer technology. Held in Las Vegas each January, it’s one of the world’s largest and most influential tech events. 

 

CES attracts companies, startups, business leaders, and media from around the globe, covering various categories, including smartphones, TVs, computers, smart home devices, and automotive technology. Many businesses use CES to launch new products and demonstrate cutting-edge innovations. 

 

The event, which began in 1967, provides valuable networking opportunities and offers insights into emerging tech trends, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of consumer electronics.

 

2. Why Exhibit at the Consumer Electronics Show?

 

As the world’s largest and most influential technology event, CES provides a global stage to showcase innovations, connect with key players, and stay ahead of industry trends. You’ll gain exposure to over 170,000 attendees, including media representatives, buyers, investors, and industry professionals worldwide. This massive audience presents a unique chance to launch new products, generate buzz, and secure valuable media coverage.

 

3. How Much Does it Cost to Exhibit at the Consumer Electronics Show?

 

For small companies, the total investment might start around $20,000, while large corporations can spend more on elaborate exhibit booths and extensive marketing campaigns. To get precise, current pricing, potential exhibitors should contact the CES sales team directly to receive customized quotes based on their specific requirements.

Subscribe for Updates

Related Posts

Trade Show Booth Types Comparison Table

What type of trade show booth solution is right for us? Imagine you are at a trade show and you s...

Yes, Trade Show Exhibiting is Still Worth It

💡 Is Trade Show Exhibiting Still Worth It? Absolutely—Here’s Why In today’s shifting econom...

5 Interactive Technology Trends Boosting Trade Show Booth Engagement Now

Printed banners and polished displays still have their place, but they’re no longer enough to draw...

Contact Us