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The Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the organizer behind the annual Consumer Entertainment Show (CES), has announced its 2021 show is going all-digital, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
CES usually takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States every January. But ‘with the growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it is not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people,’ says CTA in its announcement post (embedded below). In place of the in-person event, which typically hosts over 180,000 attendees, CES 2021 will offer a ‘unique’ online experience.
Specifically, the CTA says there will be media events where ‘the world’s leading brands [will host] exclusive digital press events,’ product showcases where live demos and product showcases will show off new tech, as well as livestreamed keynotes and conferences for the latest announcements from technology companies from around the world.
While CES 2021 isn’t the first trade show affected by the COVID-19, it is one of the largest and longest-running, and is the first trade show, to our knowledge, of 2021 that’s been altered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to photography accessories, camera makers have been known to show off prototypes and offer hands-on at CES events in the past. Time will tell what photo companies have a presence at the all-digital event in 2021.
Announcement:
CES 2021 is All-Digital
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® is reimagining how to connect exhibitors, customers, thought leaders and media from around the world while prioritizing health and safety. We are excited to share that CES® 2021 will be an all-digital experience.
For more than 50 years, CES has been the global stage for innovation. And CES 2021 will continue to be a platform to launch products, engage with global brands and define the future of the tech industry.
With the growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it is not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person.
An all-digital CES 2021 will allow the entire tech community to safely share ideas and introduce the products that will shape our future. You’ll be able to participate in all the awe-inspiring moments of CES wherever you are in the world. We are designing a unique experience for the tech industry.
CES 2021 will offer a highly personalized experience:
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Keynotes and conferences. Now you’ll have a front-row seat for groundbreaking announcements and insights from the world’s tech leaders completely online.
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Product showcase. With this digital evolution of the CES show floor, you’ll be able to explore products and services, based on your interests and business, through dynamic product showcases or live demos.
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Meetings and networking. You’ll be able to engage with the brands, thought leaders and business connections you care about with live interactions, meetups or roundtable discussions.
Technology has helped us all work, learn and connect during the coronavirus pandemic, and it has presented real solutions to help solve complex global challenges. We recognize that, particularly in these uncertain times, it is the partnerships of some of the most creative minds that bring the best solutions to life.
We’re looking forward to welcoming the global tech industry, from international brands to budding startups, to kick off the year with the world’s most influential digital technology event.
Mark your calendars for the first week in January and be on the lookout for more exciting news about CES 2021. We plan to return to Las Vegas for CES 2022, combining the best elements of a physical and digital show.
Thank you for your continued support. Please stay healthy and safe.
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)