Key Takeaways
- The world’s largest tech showcase, CES 2026, features over 25 panels and events related to the entertainment industry, focusing on both traditional studio and digital content creation
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is a major topic of discussion, with some industry professionals optimistic about its potential to enhance creativity and others concerned about its impact on jobs and copyrighted materials
- The growing importance of internet-native creators and content in the traditional entertainment industry is a key area of focus, with many speakers emphasizing the need for traditional media companies to welcome opportunities to work with creators
- AI-powered products and services, such as smart headphones and advanced televisions, are on display at CES, showcasing the latest innovations in entertainment technology
- The role of AI in advertising and the creator economy is also a major topic of discussion, with many speakers highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of using AI in these areas
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 programming has a strong focus on the entertainment industry, with over 25 different panels and events scheduled to take place. From the cinematic capabilities of AI to the role of the creator economy in the larger entertainment landscape, the conference is posing some big questions about the future of the industry. With a range of speakers from traditional studios and digital content creators, the event is set to provide valuable insights into the latest trends and developments in the entertainment industry.
The Role of AI in Entertainment
Artificial intelligence has long been a topic of discussion in the entertainment industry, with some professionals optimistic about its potential to enhance creativity and others concerned about its impact on jobs and copyrighted materials. However, many speakers at CES 2026 are emphasizing the potential benefits of AI, including its ability to help artists harness their creativity and tell stories that they may not have been able to tell otherwise. According to Dwayne Koh, the head of creative at Leonardo.ai, "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." This sentiment is echoed by Hannah Elsakr, Adobe’s vice president of generative AI new business ventures, who notes that AI is simply another tool in the toolkit, and that it’s up to the director, artist, or actor to drive high-quality content.
The Growing Importance of Internet-Native Creators
Another key area of focus at CES 2026 is the growing importance of internet-native creators and content in the traditional entertainment industry. Many speakers are emphasizing the need for traditional media companies to welcome opportunities to work with creators, who are often using AI-enabled tools to produce high-quality content. According to Brad Haugen, the executive vice president of digital strategy and growth at Lionsgate and 3 Arts, "We have, potentially, the next great filmmaker, the next great TV showrunner, the next great digital entrepreneur." This shift towards internet-native creators is set to continue, with many industry professionals recognizing the value that these creators can bring to the traditional entertainment industry.
Innovations in Entertainment Technology
In addition to the formal programming, a host of entertainment-related products and services are on display at CES 2026. From advanced televisions with AI-powered features to smart headphones and a "stringless smart guitar," there are many innovations aimed at bringing AI and advanced tech to entertainment consumers. Amazon has also announced the rollout of Alexa.com, which brings its AI assistant to the web with a host of new features, including personalized movie and TV recommendations. These innovations are set to change the way we consume entertainment, and many industry professionals are excited about the potential benefits that they can bring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CES 2026 is providing a valuable insight into the latest trends and developments in the entertainment industry. With a focus on AI, internet-native creators, and innovations in entertainment technology, the conference is set to shape the future of the industry. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that AI and advanced technology will play a major role in shaping its future. Whether it’s through the creation of new content, the enhancement of existing content, or the development of new products and services, AI is set to have a significant impact on the entertainment industry. As Hannah Elsakr notes, "We’re in early days with AI. I’m not advocating for more cats jumping off diving boards in your feeds. I think it’s about high creativity and so the director, the artist, the actor is going to drive the high quality."
