The Biggest Surprises from CES 2026

Every year at the Consumer Electronics Show, you can count on a few staples: flashy new TVs, a slew of gadgets designed to keep your devices charged, and the inevitable robot malfunctions that provide some comic relief. However, CES always manages to throw in a few unexpected twists, whether it’s surprising announcements, notable absences, or trends that catch everyone off guard. Here’s a look at the most surprising moments from CES 2026.

Motorola has unveiled a book-style foldable device, expanding its lineup beyond the clamshell flip phones that have defined its recent offerings. The new model carries the Razr branding, signaling that Motorola is ready to evolve its nostalgic roots and embrace innovative designs.

Wi-Fi 8 hardware is already on the horizon, with companies like Asus, Broadcom, and MediaTek showcasing routers and chipsets at CES 2026. Although the IEEE 802.11bn standard won’t be finalized until late 2028, these companies are gearing up to sell hardware based on the draft specifications later this year. This cutting-edge tech may require firmware updates to align with the final standard, raising concerns about a repeat of the “Draft-N” issues from 2007–2009, which left many devices outdated.

Robotic vacuums are stepping up their game with new capabilities. Roborock’s Saros Rover prototype features legs, allowing it to climb stairs—a significant upgrade from previous models. This innovation addresses concerns about robot vacuums getting stuck or falling, making them more versatile for homes with multi-levels.

While CES typically showcases massive TVs, this year has leaned heavily toward high-end models that many consumers can’t afford. Although there are some budget-friendly options like Amazon’s Ember Artline and LG’s C6 and G6, the focus seems to be on extravagant displays. Notably absent are updates from Hisense, and Sony’s presence is minimal, leaving many hoping for more accessible options in the future.

Samsung surprised attendees with a demo of a creaseless folding display, hinting at advancements in foldable technology that could soon appeal to mainstream consumers. This development is particularly interesting given Samsung’s role as a display supplier for Apple, which is rumored to be working on its own folding iPhone. While Samsung clarified that the demo was a concept with no immediate plans for release, it suggests that the future of foldable devices is on the horizon.

Lastly, the automotive presence at CES has dwindled, with AI chatbots and humanoid robots taking center stage instead. Hyundai showcased a production version of Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot, while BMW and Mercedes introduced new tech integrations for their vehicles. The only concept car on display was the Afeela SUV from Sony and Honda, a company that hasn’t yet entered the market. The shift away from automotive showcases raises questions about the future of car technology at CES, leaving many eager for a return to the automotive innovations that once defined the event.