Key Takeaways
- The CES 2026 tech showcase has a strong focus on the entertainment industry, with over 25 panels and events scheduled.
- Artificial intelligence is a major topic of discussion, with many speakers optimistic about its potential to enhance creativity and storytelling.
- The role of AI in the entertainment industry is still a subject of debate, with some creatives expressing concerns about its impact on traditional craft.
- The growing legitimacy of internet-native creators and content is being recognized, with traditional media companies encouraged to work with them.
- A range of innovative entertainment-related products and services are on display at CES, including AI-powered smart headphones, advanced televisions, and a "stringless smart guitar".
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 scheduled. The programming is set to explore the intersection of technology and entertainment, including the role of artificial intelligence in the industry. From the cinematic capabilities of AI to the impact of AI on advertising, the discussions are expected to be lively and thought-provoking.
The Role of AI in Entertainment
Artificial intelligence has long been a topic of interest in the entertainment industry, but it’s also been a source of controversy. Many creatives have been reluctant to embrace AI-powered tools, citing concerns about the potential loss of traditional craft. However, many speakers at CES 2026 are optimistic about the potential of AI to enhance creativity and storytelling. According to Dwayne Koh, the head of creative at Leonardo.ai, AI can help artists harness their creativity and tell stories that they never could have before. "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.
The Evolution of Technology in Entertainment
The entertainment industry has always been wary of emerging technology, and AI is no exception. However, as Hannah Elsakr, Adobe’s vice president of generative AI new business ventures, pointed out, this is not a new phenomenon. "When we launched Photoshop in the ’90s, we were also getting pretty angry phone calls from creatives saying that we were destroying craft," she said. Elsakr believes that AI is just another tool in the toolkit, and that it’s up to the director, artist, or actor to drive high-quality content. "Think of AI as another tool in the toolkit to make you drive that forward," she said.
The Rise of Internet-Native Creators
The growing legitimacy of internet-native creators and content is being recognized, and traditional media companies are being encouraged to work with them. According to Brad Haugen, the executive vice president of digital strategy and growth at Lionsgate and 3 Arts, creators are not just there to market products or do "internet stuff." They’re actually the next great filmmakers, TV showrunners, and digital entrepreneurs. "We have, potentially, the next great filmmaker, the next great TV showrunner, the next great digital entrepreneur," he said. The efficiency with which these creators work, sometimes using AI-enabled tools, is a prime focus among many speakers.
Innovations in Entertainment Technology
In addition to the formal programming, a host of entertainment-related products and services are on display at CES. These include impressive televisions with advanced features, AI-powered smart headphones, a "stringless smart guitar," and even a "sound chair" with built-in audio. 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. These innovations are designed to enhance at-home viewing and bring AI and advanced tech to entertainment consumers.
Conclusion
The CES 2026 tech showcase is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the latest developments in technology and entertainment. With its strong focus on the entertainment industry and the role of AI, the event is set to spark important discussions and debates. 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 creating new innovative products, AI is here to stay. As the event comes to a close, it’s exciting to think about what the future holds for the entertainment industry and the role that technology will play in it.
