CES 2026 Live: AI robots, UV printers, 5-minute EV batteries, and more tech highlights from Las Vegas
CES 2026 is in full swing, delivering a mix of groundbreaking innovations, quirky gadgets, and sobering reflections on AI’s growing influence. From AI-powered robots to futuristic batteries and wearable tech, the event continues to showcase the breadth and ambition of today’s tech landscape. One standout moment came at Eureka Park, where Anker’s eufyMake E1 UV printer stole attention. This compact, user-friendly device uses UV light to print custom designs directly onto materials like phone cases, metal sheets, water bottles, and canvas. Ideal for small businesses or creative entrepreneurs, it’s priced at $2,299 with preorders expected later this year. Backed by a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $46 million, the eufyMake E1 brings industrial-grade printing within reach of hobbyists and makers. LG unveiled its latest AI-driven home robot, CLOid, designed to handle chores ranging from folding laundry to preparing breakfast and monitoring homes for safety. Early impressions suggest it’s more than just a novelty—it’s built for real-world integration into daily life, leveraging advanced AI to navigate and adapt to household environments. In the wearable space, Vocci entered the note-taking ring race with a sleek, compact ring capable of recording up to eight hours of audio with a five-meter range. Paired with a charging case, it aims to compete with devices like Plaud, targeting users who want hands-free, discreet recording. Preorders are expected to launch in the coming weeks, with a price point under $200. Meanwhile, Donut Lab, a Finnish startup backed by Verge Motorcycles, unveiled its first solid-state battery for vehicles. Designed to charge fully in just five minutes and deliver up to 600 kilometers of range, the battery promises enhanced safety, longevity, and cold-weather performance—thanks to its non-flammable solid electrolyte. It will debut in Verge’s TS Pro and TS Ultra motorcycles later this year, with broader rollout planned across partner vehicles. Ford made waves with its announcement of an AI assistant set to launch in its smartphone app in 2026, with vehicle integration planned for 2027. The company also teased a next-generation BlueCruise system that aims to enable eyes-off driving by 2028—making it one of the most ambitious ADAS timelines yet. Actor and entrepreneur Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivered a powerful keynote at the Variety Entertainment Summit, criticizing AI companies for relying on unconsented data and labor. He urged the industry to recognize creators’ rights and compensate for content used to train models, calling the current business model a “dark path.” He’s also directing a Netflix thriller about AI, starring Rachel McAdams. Fox Entertainment’s CMO Darren Schillace shared how the network is adapting to the streaming era. By launching shows like “Doc” on broadcast and then expanding to Hulu and Netflix, Fox is reaching younger audiences while deepening fan engagement. The strategy prioritizes total viewership across generations over brand consistency. Outside the main halls, TechCrunch tested the Infinite Machine P1 scooter—a striking, Cybertruck-inspired electric ride with impressive performance and design. Despite a quiet micromobility sector at CES this year, these scooters stood out as both stylish and functional. Finally, Viaim introduced a battery-powered AI speaker for conference rooms. It supports gesture-controlled camera switching, real-time transcription, and translation—making it a powerful tool for hybrid meetings. CES 2026 continues to blend innovation with urgency, highlighting how AI and automation are reshaping everything from homes and transportation to entertainment and communication.
