The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 showcased a remarkable array of innovative robotics, featuring devices that promise to redefine everyday tasks. Held on January 5, 2026, at a private villa in Las Vegas, the event, organized by Global Connect, provided media professionals an opportunity to engage with advanced prototypes designed for real-world applications. The focus was on robotics that could potentially reach the market, rather than mere concepts.

This year’s exhibition highlighted a diverse range of robots, including AI bartenders, automated pool cleaners, and robotic arms for chess. The presence of these devices indicates a shift towards addressing practical challenges in daily life, from enhancing leisure activities to improving household maintenance.

Robotics for Enhanced Mobility and Assistance

Among the standout entries was Ascentiz, showcasing its BodyOS platform, which features modular actuators for hips and knees. This system allows users to adapt the technology for activities ranging from hiking to construction work. The hip actuator generates 36 Nm of torque, while the knee actuator offers 48 Nm, significantly reducing leg effort and knee joint pressure. The entire assembly, made from aerospace-grade materials, is designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions, demonstrating a commitment to functionality over aesthetics.

The intelligence behind the BodyOS comes from an advanced AI system, termed the “Motion Cortex,” which utilizes data from over 690,000 musculoskeletal gait cycles. This enables the system to respond swiftly to changes in movement, enhancing user experience during physical activities.

Revolutionizing Mixology and Cleaning

In the realm of hospitality, BreakReal introduced the R1, a conversational AI bartender that tailors cocktail recipes based on user emotions. By analyzing natural language inputs, the R1 can create personalized drinks, drawing from a database of over 500 classic cocktail recipes. This innovative approach not only aims to enhance the drinking experience but also introduces a social element, allowing users to share their creations globally through a dedicated app.

Meanwhile, Dreame presented its Zircon 2 Ultra and Zircon 2 Pro pool cleaners, which utilize advanced laser mapping technology to create efficient cleaning paths. With suction power reaching 10,000 GPH, these robots effectively manage pool maintenance without user intervention. The Zircon 2 Pro’s Auto-Dock feature further simplifies the process by allowing the device to return to its charging station autonomously after cleaning.

The Artly.AI Mini Barista Bot and Bartender Bot were also notable, bringing precision to beverage preparation. The Mini Barista Bot can produce latte art with a single robotic arm, while the Bartender Bot applies similar techniques to cocktails, ensuring consistency in high-volume environments. This focus on mechanical accuracy highlights a growing trend in automation for commercial settings.

Companionship and Entertainment Through Robotics

The Hengbot Sirius presents a different vision of robotics, serving primarily as a companion. This AI-powered device is designed to adapt to various roles, whether as a playmate or a creative tool for animators. Its customizable nature allows owners to tailor its appearance and functions, emphasizing the emotional connection users can develop with technology.

In a blend of entertainment and education, SenseRobot showcased its chess-playing robotic arms, which physically interact with the game by moving pieces and responding in real-time. This hands-on approach offers a unique engagement that traditional screen-based chess cannot replicate, appealing to both casual players and educational environments.

The CES 2026 event illustrated the potential of robotics to enhance various aspects of daily living, from leisure activities to essential household chores. As these technologies continue to evolve, they may redefine how individuals interact with their environments, making once-daunting tasks more manageable and enjoyable. The innovations displayed serve as a glimpse into a future where robotics play an integral role in enhancing human experiences.