The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has confirmed that CES 2021 will be an all-digital experience for exhibitors, customers, thought leaders and media from around the world. The CTA plans to return to Las Vegas for the 2022 instalment for a physical and digital show.
The new format – scheduled for January 6 to 9 2021 – will allow participants to hear from technology innovators, see the latest product launches and engage with brands and start-ups, from the safety of the home.
CTA president and CEO, Gary Shapiro said the decision made by the executive board was driven by one mandate – to do the right thing – not only for the industry and its people, but for the nation and the world.
“We did not make our decision on financial or legal grounds, but on what is right. It is simply not possible to safely gather over 100,000 people indoors with a raging COVID-19 virus and no real hope for a tested and widely available vaccine by January. The world does not need more COVID-19 cases, and we decided we would do our part by ensuring we are not helping spread the disease,” he said.
“We commit to producing the best possible global digital innovation event to spread the gospel of 5G, artificial intelligence, self-driving vehicles and new forms of mobility, digital and telehealth, resilience, robotics, drones, new forms of entertainment, 8K Ultra HD screens and smart TVs to the curious, entrepreneurs, investors, business and media who can access the best of CES from their homes and offices.
“Our CES 2021 attendees will hear and see the future. They will also learn first-hand from global policy leaders about big policy issues involving privacy, competition and the regulation of new technologies and media platforms.”
CES 2020 attracted over 170,000 attendees, 6,000 media and 4,000 exhibitors. Thousands of exhibitors had already signed up for and committed to CES 2021.
“Canceling the physical presence, investing in an all-digital presence for 2021 and creating a fair refund policy was the costliest option on the table,” Shapiro said.
“CES 2021 will be different. It will be all-digital. It is the right way to focus on the cause of innovation in this unique moment in our shared global history.”