"Going into CES 2026, everyone knew that the main thing packed into devices, coming out of everyone's mouth, and leading discussions would be AI. Sure, you'd be hard-pressed to find a device that didn't tout its AI acumen. But there were also so many advances in hardware, material sciences, and old-school design prowess that have always made CES the exciting cornucopia of invention and innovation that it is."
"If you're buying a turntable in 2026, it's to get back to simpler times, to purer sounds, to a more present enjoyment of music. The AT-LP7X, which Audiot Technica showed off at CES 2026, is just that. No bluetooth (not necessary), no gears (this is fully manual), no edges (hewn off from predecessors like the acclaimed LP5X). This is a pure, clean high-end turntable - and we're here for it."
"Love it or leave it, LEGO's Smart Bricks are here to stay. A trick that was arguably first introduced with a LEGO x Nintendo collab, the sound-making LEGO Bricks have been expanded - and first brought to market (smartly) with three new Star Wars sets. The Smart Bricks in question carry accelerometers, light and sound sensors and miniature speaker. Meaning?"
CES 2026 revealed ubiquitous AI integration across devices while significant advances in hardware, materials, and traditional industrial design also stood out. Exhibits included compact high-end audio like Audio-Technica's manual AT-LP7X turntable emphasizing analog purity and a $999 price point. LEGO introduced sensor-equipped Smart Bricks with accelerometers, light and sound sensors, and miniature speakers in new Star Wars sets, enabling interactive sound effects. The show also showcased refined televisions, simplified soundbars, and streamlined laptops, plus continued refinement of foldable displays that reinforce Samsung's leadership in foldables. AI interfaces enhanced many products but hardware and material improvements remained central.
Read at Inverse
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