LAS VEGAS – The annual CES tech show kicked off with big announcements from chipmakers like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel, all showcasing advancements in artificial intelligence. But it was the playful robots and the allure of Star Wars that really captured the crowd’s attention.
AI was a central theme, as companies big and small displayed new AI-driven products.
Nvidia Pushes “Physical AI”
Nvidia highlighted “physical AI,” where AI models are trained in virtual worlds and then used in real-world machines. CEO Jensen Huang introduced Cosmos, a powerful AI model capable of realistic environment simulations. The company also announced Alpamayo, specifically designed for self-driving cars. Furthermore, Nvidia’s next-generation AI superchip, Vera Rubin, is now in production, alongside a new partnership with Siemens. To the delight of the audience, Huang presented two chirping robots on stage.
Chipmakers in the AI Race
AMD’s CEO Lisa Su announced a new line of Ryzen AI processors, aiming to expand their presence in AI-powered PCs. They also unveiled the AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D for gamers.
Intel introduced its new AI chip for laptops, Panther Lake (Intel Core Ultra Series 3), and announced plans for a new platform targeting the growing market for handheld gaming devices.
Uber’s Robotaxi
Uber unveiled its new robotaxi, developed with Lucid Motors and Nuro. The autonomous vehicle has a luxurious interior and features cameras, sensors, and radars for 360-degree awareness. Initial on-road testing is underway in San Francisco, with a planned launch later this year.
Star Wars and Lego Unite
Lucasfilm’s David Filoni brought Star Wars characters to the Lego stage, announcing a Lego Smart Play platform. New smart bricks and minifigs with sensors will allow users to create interactive space battles and lightsaber duels.
LG’s Home Robot
LG previewed its humanoid robot designed to help with household chores.
Musical Lollipops
Lollipop Star introduced lollipops that play music through bone conduction technology while you eat them.
Hyundai’s Robot Workforce
Hyundai-owned Boston Dynamics demonstrated its humanoid robot Atlas, intended to assemble cars at Hyundai’s electric vehicle plant near Savannah, Georgia, by 2028.
Delta’s Sphere Partnership
Delta Air Lines announced a multiyear partnership with the Sphere in Las Vegas, including a Delta SKY360° Club lounge. SkyMiles members will have exclusive access to experiences at the Sphere.
