CES 2026 Wrap-Up: A Busy, Bold Year for Tech
CES 2026 delivered a stream of mind‑bending gadgets, bold design choices, and the kind of cross‑category innovation that tech enthusiasts crave. In the latest Engadget podcast, hosts Devindra and Cherlynn take listeners through their favorite moments from the show, sharing first-hand impressions, standout demos, and the trends that will shape consumer tech in 2026 and beyond. From augmented reality to AI‑assisted devices, the conference acted as a lively proving ground for ideas that could redefine everyday life.
The episode opens with a brisk tour through the show floor, highlighting breakthrough wearables, autonomous demos, and new devices that push the boundaries of convenience and connectivity. As always, the duo contrasts big‑brand unveilings with the smaller, ambitious startups that seemed to steal the show in quieter corners of the venue. The conversation sheds light on what made CES 2026 memorable: practical interfaces, improved battery life, and a renewed focus on sustainability in hardware design.
While the event filled the air with excitement, Engadget’s Best of CES awards provided a structured lens through which to evaluate the year’s top contenders. The hosts walk listeners through the lineup, explaining why each winner deserves recognition and what it signals for future product development. If you’re curious about which devices impressed editors the most and why certain feature sets outpaced others, this segment serves as a concise, informative guide to the best tech from the show.
Best of CES: Awards Spotlight
The Best of CES awards segment distills wild demos into tangible value propositions. Devindra and Cherlynn discuss categories that ranged from “Most Innovative Gadget” to “Best Home Setup” and “Smartwatch of the Year.” Their assessments emphasize user experience, practical utility, and the degree to which a device solves real problems. If you missed the live coverage, this portion of the podcast gives you a quick, reliable recap—perfect for listeners who want to catch up during a commute or a quick office break.
Expect thoughtful commentary on how the awards reflect broader industry currents: machine learning assisting everyday tasks, better sensor technology enabling more accurate health and fitness tracking, and the continued push toward seamless, connected ecosystems. The hosts also point out trends likely to echo throughout 2026, including the convergence of wearables with home devices and the growing importance of privacy and data security in new hardware.
Exclusive Interview: Pebble’s Return with Eric Migicovsky
One of the episode’s most engaging moments is a candid conversation with Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, about the smartwatch brand’s revival. The interview dives into Pebble’s origin story, lessons learned from early wearable history, and what the company aims to deliver in its refreshed lineup. Migicovsky shares insights into product philosophy, community involvement, and how Pebble plans to differentiate itself in a market crowded with established players and rapid innovation.
Listeners won’t just hear about hardware specs; the chat explores design principles, battery longevity, and the balance between notification simplicity and useful, context-aware features. The conversation also touches on the emotional connection many users had with Pebble’s earlier devices and how that legacy informs the company’s current strategy. For those following wearable tech, this interview offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a founder navigating a comeback in a fast-moving ecosystem.
What to Expect Next from Engadget’s Tech Coverage
As CES coverage evolves, this episode demonstrates Engadget’s approach to delivering timely, practical insights with a human touch. The format blends on‑site observations, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews to create an engaging, informative listening experience. If you’re planning to attend future shows or simply want to stay ahead of the curve, these episodes serve as a reliable companion for understanding where consumer tech is headed.
Be sure to subscribe to the Engadget podcast for ongoing coverage, hands-on reviews, and more founder chats that illuminate the stories behind the devices shaping our digital lives.
