It’s been a whirlwind year for technological innovation since the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 unveiled its dazzling array of futuristic gadgets. Held annually at the Las Vegas Convention Center, CES is a global stage where over 4,000 companies showcase their latest innovations. Last January, we highlighted the Best Tech of CES 2025, featuring 21 standout products poised to influence the industry. As CES 2026 approaches, we revisit these innovations to assess their real-world impact and market performance.
Our experts have revisited the top picks from last year’s show to answer pressing questions: How did these products fare as production models? Did they meet expectations, or were they disappointing? Here’s what we discovered.
Notable Laptops and Desktops
Asus Zenbook A14: Ultraportable Excellence
The Asus Zenbook A14 captured attention with its sleek design and robust battery life, earning the title of Best Laptop at CES 2025. Despite some underwhelming performance from the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, the Zenbook A14 remains a top choice for budget-conscious consumers, especially as the Best Windows Ultraportable Laptop Under $1,000. Its magnesium-alloy construction and Ceraluminum design continue to impress, making it a smart buy for many.
MSI Vision X AI 2nd: A Gaming Powerhouse
Originally previewed at Computex 2024, the MSI Vision X AI 2nd made waves at CES with its unique 13-inch touch display. Now available for purchase, albeit with limited stock and a steep price tag, this gaming desktop is powered by Arrow Lake 200 processors and top-tier Nvidia GPUs. Though not yet reviewed, it remains a coveted item for gaming enthusiasts.
Gaming Gear and Prototypes
Lenovo Legion Go S: A Mixed Bag
The Lenovo Legion Go S, despite its potential, fell short in gaming performance due to its underpowered AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor. However, a SteamOS variant has since improved its capabilities, making it a recommended upgrade for Steam Deck users.
MSI Project Zero X: The Unseen Future
MSI’s Project Zero X, an ambitious prototype for minimalist PC building, remains a concept yet to reach consumers. Its innovative design, featuring hidden cables and relocated ports, has not progressed beyond trade shows. Enthusiasts eagerly await any developments at CES 2026.
Tablets, Mobile Devices, and Smart Home Tech
Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3: Small Tablet, Big Power
Lenovo’s Legion Tab Gen 3 impressed with its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and high-resolution display. Priced at $389, it offers a compelling option for gamers seeking a portable yet powerful device.
HMD OffGrid: Connectivity Challenges
The HMD OffGrid promised satellite SOS functionality for smartphones but faced criticism for inconsistent connectivity and limited customer support. Despite its potential, it has struggled to gain traction, with many users opting for carrier-provided emergency services.
Roborock Saros Z70: A Novelty in Smart Home Tech
The Saros Z70, featuring a robotic arm, entered the market quickly but remains more of a novelty due to its limited functionality and high price. Future iterations may enhance its practicality.
Privacy, Wellness, and Wearable Tech
Ultraloq Bolt Mission UWB + NFC: Awaiting Arrival
Though not yet released, the Ultraloq Bolt Mission promises innovative unlocking technology. The company’s reputation suggests it could be a significant addition to smart home security upon release.
Ozlo Sleepbuds: Comfort Meets Technology
The Ozlo Sleepbuds, combining noise cancellation with comfort, have received positive reviews despite delays in sleep tracking features. They remain a top choice for those seeking restful sleep.
Circular Ring 2: Promising but Flawed
The Circular Ring 2 entered the market with advanced health monitoring features but faced criticism for app performance and data accuracy. Its competitive price remains a draw for consumers.
Smart Glasses, Audio, and Visual Tech
XReal One Pro: A Travel Essential
The XReal One Pro, with its impressive field of view and head-tracking capabilities, has become a favorite among travelers needing portable display solutions. Its success points to a growing market for augmented reality technology.
JBL Tour One M3: Versatile Audio Experience
JBL’s Tour One M3 headphones offer extensive connectivity options and impressive sound quality. Despite a price increase, their features and battery life make them a worthwhile investment.
LG G5 OLED TV: Visual Excellence
The LG G5 OLED TV continues to impress with its picture quality, setting a high standard for home entertainment. Its brightness and color accuracy make it a top choice for discerning viewers.
Transportation, AI, and Sustainability
Honda 0 Series: The Future of Mobility
Honda’s 0 Series electric vehicles are progressing towards a 2026 launch, promising innovative design and functionality. The anticipation surrounding these models highlights the growing interest in sustainable transportation solutions.
Nvidia Cosmos: Pioneering AI Development
Nvidia Cosmos, a foundation model for simulating the physical world, has matured significantly since CES 2025. Its open-source release and widespread adoption by robotics companies underscore its transformative potential in AI development.
Flint Paper Battery: Sustainable Innovation
Flint’s paper battery technology is advancing, with collaborations with major brands like Apple and Amazon. This sustainable innovation represents a significant step forward in eco-friendly energy solutions.
As CES 2026 approaches, the tech world eagerly anticipates the next wave of innovations. The successes and challenges of CES 2025’s standout products offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of technology and its impact on our lives.
