Key Takeaways
- Nvidia, AMD, and Intel made significant announcements about their chip and AI platform developments at CES 2026.
- Artificial intelligence was a dominant theme at the conference, with many companies showcasing AI-powered products and technologies.
- Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, introduced the company’s new AI foundation model, Cosmos, and announced a partnership with Siemens.
- AMD introduced a new line of Ryzen AI processors, while Intel announced its new AI chip for laptops, Panther Lake.
- Other notable announcements included Uber’s robotaxi, Lego’s partnership with Star Wars, and LG’s humanoid robot designed to handle household chores.
Introduction to CES 2026
The first day of CES 2026 saw major tech companies like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel making significant announcements about their chip and AI platform developments. The conference, which is a huge opportunity for companies to showcase their products and technologies, was dominated by artificial intelligence, with many companies showcasing AI-powered products and technologies. As predicted, AI was anchored in nearly everything, as tech firms continue to look for products that will attract customers.
Nvidia’s Announcements
Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, was one of the main attractions at the conference, showcasing the company’s new AI foundation model, Cosmos. Cosmos is an AI model trained on massive datasets, capable of simulating environments governed by actual physics. Huang also announced Alpamayo, an AI model specifically designed for autonomous driving. Additionally, he revealed that Nvidia’s next-generation AI superchip platform, dubbed Vera Rubin, is in full production, and that Nvidia has a new partnership with Siemens. However, the audience was more interested in the two little robots that Huang brought on stage, which stole the show.
AMD and Intel’s Announcements
AMD CEO Lisa Su announced a new line of Ryzen AI processors, which the company hopes will expand its footprint in the world of AI-powered personal computers. AMD also showed off the latest version of its gaming-focused processor, the AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D. Meanwhile, Intel announced its new AI chip for laptops, Panther Lake, and said the company has plans to launch a new platform to address the growing market for handheld video gaming machines. Intel, which has been struggling to keep up with the competition, hopes that these announcements will help the company regain its position in the market.
Other Notable Announcements
Other notable announcements at the conference included Uber’s robotaxi, which the company hopes will revolutionize the transportation industry. The robotaxi, which was designed in partnership with Lucid Motors and Nuro, features cameras, sensors, and radars that provide 360-degree perception and a low-profile roof "halo" with integrated LEDs. Lego also announced a new partnership with Star Wars, which will allow fans to create their own interactive space battles and light-saber duels using the company’s new smart bricks and minifigs. LG also showcased a humanoid robot designed to handle household chores, which will be on display at the conference.
Autonomous Vehicles and Robotics
Autonomous vehicles and robotics were also a major theme at the conference. Boston Dynamics, a company owned by Hyundai, publicly demonstrated its humanoid robot Atlas for the first time, which is capable of performing tasks that are similar to those of humans. The company said a version of the robot that will help assemble cars is already in production and will be deployed by 2028 at Hyundai’s electric vehicle manufacturing facility. Uber also announced that it has begun autonomous on-road testing in San Francisco, led by Nuro, which marks a major step towards the company’s planned launch of its robotaxi service later this year.
Entertainment and Partnerships
The conference also saw several entertainment and partnership announcements. Delta Air Lines announced a new multi-year partnership with Sphere Entertainment Co., which will deliver premium experiences to the venue, including a Delta SKY360° Club lounge. The carrier said SkyMiles members can unlock exclusive access to other experiences at the Sphere, starting during the final weekend of the Backstreet Boys’ residency in February. Lollipop Star also unveiled a new product that combines music and candy, using "bone induction technology" to play music while you eat it.
Conclusion
The first day of CES 2026 was filled with exciting announcements and showcases of the latest technologies and products. From Nvidia’s AI foundation model to Uber’s robotaxi, the conference demonstrated the significant advancements being made in the tech industry. As the conference continues, it will be interesting to see what other innovations and announcements are made, and how they will shape the future of technology and entertainment.
