CES 2006: Parting Thoughts

This year's show felt larger than before?for a good reason. When the clock struck 4, the show floor officially closed, and toys began to be packed away, the final numbers could be tallied. According to the Consumer Electronics Association, which hosts the event, CES attracted more than 150,000 attendees--up from some 142,000 last year--and more than 2500 exhibitors. (As a point of reference, Comdex, the one-time behemoth of computer shows here in the U.S., peaked in 1998 with 212,000 attendees and 2480 exhibitors.)



Physically, the show was more spread out as well. For the first year, the show added exhibits over at the Sands Expo--making for interesting logistics for attendees trying to get from one place to the next.

The convergence I'd observed at the conclusion of last year's show seemed more complete this year. Whether you were looking at the gargantuan Microsoft or Intel booths, or the array of vendors in the South Hall of the convention center...or even checking out the displays at traditional CE companies, you couldn't help but note the overlap. More and more traditional consumer electronics companies were displaying entertainment products powered by technology--often the same technologies behind computers, too.

The pure CE companies felt less prevalent than before, as well. I still saw some incongruities, though, with off-beat home electronics vendors side-by-side tech-types.

Hot topics this year included: VoIP and Skype (accessories for Skype were everywhere); crisp, ginormous displays--topped by Panasonic, who had bragging rights on the largest plasma display at 103 inches; satellite radio; and the ongoing struggle for dominance between Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD.



The show may be over, the last DVRs bundled up and plasma screens torn down, but for us consumers, it's really just the beginning. Most of the products and technologies introduced at CES--both on the show floor and behind closed doors--will be streaming to stores, and maybe even a living room near you, over the coming months. Many of these products are bound to pass through PC World's hands, so stay tuned to our site for the latest updates and reviews.