Returning to CES After a Decade: A Nostalgic Journey

Fifteen years after attending my first Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the details of each event have blurred into a haze of technology and missed flights. Yet, some elements remain vivid, like the progression from endless cameras to new tech, set against the backdrop of Las Vegas' extensive landscape.

The early days of my CES experiences entailed a complete lack of directional clarity. Armed with a Pentax DSLR on loan and a BlackBerry, I navigated the event in impractical attire, without modern conveniences like Uber, while staying at MGM Grand with its live lions. Fast forward, breaking an 11-year hiatus, my return in 2025 came with an entirely different lens.

This time, my assignment was to wander the floors more openly, devoid of the rigid focus on smartphones. Equipped with The Verge’s CMS on my phone and practical footwear, I embarked on this rediscovery journey.

Day One: The West Hall Experience

The CES journey kicked off in the West Hall, marveling at the convenience of readily available seating and charging outlets, a far cry from the crowded past. The new hall itself, unrecognizable from my memories, piqued my curiosity. As my planned brief lap turned into fascination when massive autonomous vehicles, including a John Deere dump truck, caught my eye. Documenting my moments with these technological marvels, I headed towards Central Hall, seeking the latest in robotics.

This was not here in 2014.

The Rise of the Robots

Robots have become CES's latest spectacle, evolving from novel demonstrations to functional aides, albeit with varied reliability. From sock-picking vacuums to social companions, this year's batch peers into everyday applicability, all couched in an AI narrative dominating the show floor. One memorable encounter involved a robot dramatically diving off a table, only to be swiftly recovered by its handler with promises of durability.

We love our cute robots this year.

Transportation: Then and Now

Navigating Las Vegas remains a challenge, as the deluge of 140,000 attendees creates a bustling scene mirrored by prevalent chokepoints in transportation. Even the decade leap in transport innovation didn’t ease the lines or congestion. Moving between venues, I resorted to walking or enduring long waits, highlighting persistent logistical hurdles.

A venture into the Vegas Loop in a Tesla offered a glimpse into potential easing of distance between exhibition halls, though shortcomings remain for longer stretches.

Photo by Allison Johnson.

The Evolving Vegas Experience

Outside CES walls, Las Vegas reveals its enduring facets and recent additions like the Sphere, an eye-catching new landmark. On the strip, the mesmerizing blend of old and new mingles with the heavy footfall of tourists, reminiscent of past years. Vegas remains a spectacle, where attention retains its value akin to currency.

While innovations like Delta’s immersive presentation within the Sphere captivated audiences with sensory experiences, they underscored CES's theatrical nature—a testament to tech showmanship.

As my return to CES unfolded, it wasn’t only the technological advancements that stood out but the show's unchanged essence of captivating the senses, a place where innovation meets entertainment. While the focus of products may change, CES continues to be a remarkable convergence of industry players, creating moments of wonder that linger long after closing day. In experiencing this grand display once more, I reaffirmed that even when the details fade, the fascination it evokes endures.