Key Takeaways:
- The CES 2026 tech showcase in Las Vegas has a strong focus on the entertainment industry, with over 25 panels and events related to the industry.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is a major topic of discussion, with many speakers optimistic about its potential to benefit the entertainment industry.
- The use of AI in entertainment raises questions about copyrighted characters, images, and materials.
- Influencers and internet-native creators are gaining legitimacy in the traditional entertainment industry, with many speakers highlighting their importance and efficiency.
- New entertainment-related products and services, such as AI-powered smart headphones and advanced televisions, are on display at CES.
Introduction to CES 2026
The world’s largest tech showcase, CES 2026, is currently underway in Las Vegas, and it’s not just about the latest gadgets and innovations. This year’s event has a strong focus on the entertainment industry, with over 25 different panels and events related to the industry on the schedule. From the cinematic capabilities of AI to the role of the creator economy in the larger entertainment landscape, the programming has posed some interesting questions about the future of entertainment. With the likes of Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery set to participate in the Variety’s Entertainment Summit at the showcase, it’s clear that the entertainment industry is taking center stage at CES 2026.
The Role of AI in Entertainment
Artificial intelligence has long been a topic of discussion in the entertainment industry, with many creatives hesitant to embrace the rapidly evolving technology. However, many speakers at CES 2026 are optimistic about the potential of AI to benefit the industry. According to Dwayne Koh, the head of creative at Leonardo.ai, AI can help artists harness their creativity rather than stifle it or replace it. "The tools that we create have unlocked something in us. It’s kind of flattened that bar in terms of what storytelling can be because anyone now can be a storyteller," he said. Others, such as Hannah Elsakr, Adobe’s vice president of generative AI new business ventures, point out that the panic over emerging technology is not new, citing the example of Photoshop in the 1990s.
The Impact of AI on Creativity
The use of AI in entertainment raises important questions about copyrighted characters, images, and materials. However, many speakers believe that AI can be a tool to enhance creativity rather than replace it. "Think of AI as another tool in the tool kit to make you drive that forward," said Elsakr. The efficiency with which internet-native creators work, sometimes using AI-enabled tools, is also a prime focus among many speakers. Brad Haugen, the executive vice president of digital strategy and growth at Lionsgate and 3 Arts, believes that traditional media companies should welcome opportunities to work with creators and embrace their importance. "We have, potentially, the next great filmmaker, the next great TV showrunner, the next great digital entrepreneur," he said.
The Growing Legitimacy of Internet-Native Creators
Influencers and internet-native creators are gaining legitimacy in the traditional entertainment industry, with many speakers highlighting their importance and efficiency. The ability of these creators to produce high-quality content quickly and efficiently, often using AI-enabled tools, is seen as a major advantage. Haugen believes that creators are not just there to market products or do "internet stuff," but are actually the next generation of great filmmakers and TV showrunners. The growing importance of the creator economy is a major theme at CES 2026, with many panels and events focused on the role of creators in the entertainment industry.
New Entertainment-Related Products and Services
In addition to the formal programming, a host of entertainment-related products and services are on display at CES 2026. These include advanced televisions with AI-powered features, smart headphones, and even a "stringless smart guitar." Amazon has also announced the rollout of Alexa.com, bringing its AI assistant to the web with a host of new features, including personalized movie and TV recommendations. The company has also announced a feature that enables Alexa to jump to a specific scene you’re searching for with just a simple description. These innovations are designed to enhance the at-home viewing experience and bring AI and advanced tech to entertainment consumers.
Conclusion
CES 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting event for the entertainment industry, with a strong focus on AI, the creator economy, and new entertainment-related products and services. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that AI will play a major role in shaping the future of entertainment. Whether it’s enhancing creativity, improving efficiency, or providing new ways to consume content, AI is set to have a major impact on the entertainment industry. With the likes of Netflix, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery set to participate in the Variety’s Entertainment Summit, it’s clear that the entertainment industry is taking center stage at CES 2026.
