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Sunday Reading - What's the point of a consumer electronics show?


 

What's the point of a consumer electronics show?

Consumer electronics shows are large convention-type events where companies debut new technologies and products. The largest and most notable shows are CES in Las Vegas, a trade show every January, and IFA Berlin, which takes place annually in September. The events have historically introduced novel, cutting-edge products that later became household standards, like HDTVs, VCRs, DVDs, and gaming consoles (see list).

 Over time, these shows evolved from product showcases (see last year's coolest gadgets) into complex industry ecosystems, serving as a meeting ground for startups, multinational technology companies, investors, and the media. Hardware launches, keynote speeches, and off-floor meetings influence business strategy, often shaping it months or years before products reach consumers.

 CES, founded in 1967, positions itself as a future-facing, agenda-setting trade event focused on emerging technologies and long-term industry direction. IFA Berlin, which held its first meeting in 1924, is more market-facing, emphasizing finished consumer electronics and appliances that are closer to retail.

... Read what else we learned about the events here.

Also, check out ... 

> Photos of early iterations of CES. (View)

> See last year's winners of the CES "Worst in Show" awards. (Read)

> It's actually pretty hard for the public to get into CES. (Read)

> The time Bill Gates triggered the "blue screen of death" while showcasing Windows 98 onstage. (Watch)

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