This year’s CES was unlike any other. Traditionally, this grand tech conference is all about cutting-edge, high-priced televisions and innovative, luxurious cars. However, CES 2026 took a different turn. Instead of the usual glitz, Las Vegas became a hub for fresh takes on established gadgets, showcasing a plethora of impressive hardware that is eagerly waiting for software to keep up.

During a special live recording of The Vergecast at the Brooklyn Bowl in Vegas, David and Nilay explored some of the standout stories from this year’s event. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us, enjoyed some drinks, and indulged in a bit of bowling afterward—we truly had a fantastic time connecting with all of you! Our discussions ranged from robots struggling to remain upright to the curious trend of companies diversifying their product lines. We also delved into the resurgence of quirky PC concepts, debated battery life, and much more.

CES is traditionally a showcase of individual products, and this year was no exception with an array of fascinating items on display. From the innovative Lego Smart Brick to the intriguing Clicks Communicator, and the numerous robot vacuums that filled the convention halls, there was plenty to see. Some of these products will undoubtedly succeed, while others may not. We even played a game in this episode to predict which might make it. Beyond the gadgets, CES reveals a broader picture of the tech industry’s priorities and hints at how our everyday lives might evolve in the coming year. Although 2026 is just beginning, we already have some intriguing insights.

For those eager to dive deeper into the topics we covered in this episode and explore the rest of our CES coverage, we’ve provided some links to guide you through it all: