It was 1967, a year marked by tragedy and technological promise. The Vietnam War raged, the Apollo 1 fire claimed the lives of three astronauts, and the inaugural Consumer Electronics Show (CES) debuted in New York City. With 250 exhibitors and 17,500 attendees, it was the humble beginning of an event that would shape the future of electronics, bringing together innovators and enthusiasts from around the globe.
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) traces its roots back to 1924 when it was founded as the Radio Manufacturers Association. As technology evolved, so did its name – incorporating “television” and “electronics” before settling on its current title in 2015. Initially focused on standards and policies for radio, the CTA quickly expanded to encompass the rapidly growing world of television and, ultimately, the full spectrum of electronic technologies. Its flagship event, CES, blossomed into a massive, world-renowned showcase.
Photo Gallery
Like many live events, CES attendance plummeted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and hasn’t yet fully rebounded. However, it remains resilient, recovering even as other major shows, like E3, have faltered. In a post-pandemic landscape where many companies may opt for virtual events, CES stands as one of the few major conventions demonstrating strong recovery. While the days of packed Las Vegas hotels for CES might be a thing of the past, the industry is constantly changing, and new ways to host conventions could emerge.
For now, CES continues to highlight exciting advancements in consumer electronics. Car tech is booming, with innovations ranging from heads-up displays to flying vehicles. Drones of all sizes take center stage, from playful light-show toys to professional 4K models. Virtual reality, haptic feedback devices, cutting-edge farm equipment, and the latest LG screens all find their place at CES. While attendance may not have returned to peak levels, CES Las Vegas endures. As it gradually recovers, we can hope that the next major milestone will see a return to its pre-pandemic glory.
