(July 28, 2020) The massive impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the AV landscape continues to be felt, now extending into the year 2021 and January’s annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Just hours ago, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and Gary Shapiro (CTA president and CEO) officially canceled an in-person CES 2021 experience, opting for an all-digital show for exhibitors, attendees, and media. This pivot allows those involved to remain safe while still providing the means to learn about tech trends and new products for 2021 and beyond.
"Amid the pandemic and growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it's just not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person,” said Shapiro. “Technology helps us all work, learn and connect during the pandemic — and that innovation will also help us reimagine CES 2021 and bring together the tech community in a meaningful way. By shifting to an all-digital platform for 2021, we can deliver a unique experience that helps our exhibitors connect with existing and new audiences."
CES has remained a massive global stage for consumer technologies and innovation for more than 50 years, and its 2021itteration will certainly provide a less personalized version of the event. After all, it’s nearly impossible to recreate the power of face-to-face interactions and hands-on product experiences using a remote platform. That said, these are the cards we’ve been dealt and the CTA has a golden opportunity to test strategies and improve its digital presence for future shows.
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