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Last year, CES 2023 saw about 118,000 attendees and 3,200 exhibitors, making it the largest tech trade show in Las Vegas since 2020, significantly surpassing the COVID-impacted event in January 2022. This year, CES 2024 is expected to be even bigger, with an estimated 130,000 attendees and 3,500 exhibitors, according to Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association. The exhibitor space is projected to increase by 10%, reaching 2.4 million square feet, up from 2.2 million in CES 2023.
One key highlight of the show will be AI, which is anticipated to feature prominently in many of the products and services being announced. Shapiro mentioned that the CES Innovation Awards program saw a 40% increase in applications for CES 2024. Notably, the Goodyear blimp will make an appearance this year.
Shapiro is known for his advocacy for innovation and his criticism of government intervention. He recently published an op-ed where he expressed concern about the diminishing competitive edge of the U.S. in technology. We discussed this and other topics during our talk.
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Here’s an edited transcript of my interview with Gary Shapiro, CEO of the CTA and creator of CES:
Gary Shapiro: We’re very excited about this year’s CES. All the signs are positive. We focus on innovation, and everything is coming together bigger than ever before. We have a 40% increase in innovation entries, which is fantastic. Pre-registration is incredibly strong across all categories, especially from international attendees.
VentureBeat: Are more people heading to Eureka Park this year? More startups?
Shapiro: Last year, we had over 1,000 startups, and we expect the same this year. We won’t have an exact number until after the show, but it’s definitely more than 1,000.
VentureBeat: What was the attendance last year?
Shapiro: It was 118,000. This year, we’re aiming for 130,000. The strong pre-registration, especially internationally, makes us optimistic. The timing of the event, away from the weekend, is great because it means less competition for hotel rooms.
The most crucial factor is the presence of innovative products. Our speakers will address significant issues, and AI is a major topic this year.
Shapiro: AI is definitely a top discussion point. How companies will showcase it remains to be seen, but it’s a crucial ingredient in everything from healthcare to mobility. The UN’s involvement is also significant, with their CTO speaking, emphasizing our theme of sustainability and innovation solving the world’s biggest problems.
VentureBeat: What was the square footage and number of exhibitors last year?
Shapiro: Last year’s show covered a little under 2.2 million square feet. This year, we’re over 2.4 million, marking a 10% increase. We expect around 3,500 exhibitors again this year, though these numbers can fluctuate until the last minute.
VentureBeat: What issues do AI companies need to address to truly take off?
Shapiro: There are many discussions about AI, especially since OpenAI’s public release over a year ago. Companies like Google and Microsoft are heavily involved. Key issues include the impact on jobs, ethical use, safety, and societal benefits. These topics will be extensively discussed at CES, including public policy aspects.
The Senate Majority Leader recently invited me to a listening session about AI, which included various stakeholders. There’s a clear intent to balance innovation with necessary regulations.
Responsible companies are leveraging AI to do their work better and more efficiently. Examples include Detroit-area CIOs using AI to speed up processes that previously took months. At CES, we expect to see AI being used in diverse ways to solve real-world problems faster and better.
VentureBeat: Besides AI, what other trending topics or exhibit areas should we look out for?
Shapiro: Transportation is a big area this year. The mobility section has grown significantly, from 300,000 square feet in 2020 to 416,000 last year, and now approaching 500,000 square feet. We’re seeing advancements in electric vehicles, scooters, and even drones capable of carrying people. The Goodyear Blimp will also make its debut.
Healthcare technology remains strong, with major brands and speakers. Elevance will deliver our first dedicated health care keynote. CEOs from various industries, including video games, cosmetics, and retail, will also speak. Themes like sustainability and innovation are central to our keynotes this year.
VentureBeat: Are there specific areas of tech where you want to see the most progress?
Shapiro: Our foundation focuses on technology for older people and those with disabilities. We have dedicated awards and contests to encourage innovation in these areas. We also have a partnership with AARP to promote products designed with seniors in mind.
Healthcare availability is another pressing issue due to the limited number of trained doctors. Technological solutions like remote monitoring and telehealth are critical. CES has become a hub for healthcare tech, attracting providers, hospitals, insurance companies, and tech firms.
VentureBeat: Are there tech issues that will likely spark conversations with policymakers attending CES?
Shapiro: We have a global array of policymakers attending CES, including ministers from various countries, city mayors, and numerous U.S. state legislators, congressmen, and agency heads. They’re here to understand the role of innovation and how they can support it without stifling it. We have a separate policy track for these discussions at the show.
VentureBeat: What’s your view on antitrust enforcement?
Shapiro: We support antitrust enforcement. As a group representing competitors, promoting fair competition is crucial. However, we’re concerned about policies that discourage big companies from acquiring smaller ones. Startup capital thrives on the possibility of acquisition, and we need a balance that doesn’t hamper innovation.
The current U.S. administration’s stance on antitrust has been challenging, often discouraging beneficial acquisitions. Most legal cases against tech companies have resulted in losses for the administration, suggesting that innovation and consumer welfare should guide antitrust policies.
VentureBeat: How do you view the differences between U.S. and European legislative approaches, like the Digital Markets Act?
Shapiro: The Digital Markets Act’s impact is yet to be seen. While aiming to promote competition, it might end up being burdensome, particularly for smaller companies. Europe’s stringent privacy laws have already caused some smaller firms to shut down. We need balanced laws in the U.S. that protect privacy without stifling innovation.
The U.S. has historically struck the right balance between regulation and fostering innovation. We value freedom and encourage capital formation, which has made the U.S. a leader in technology.
VentureBeat: How do you see the interaction between tech and geopolitics?
Shapiro: The world has become increasingly divided, influencing company decisions. The U.S.-China relationship, in particular, is delicate. We advocate for trade with our allies and a strategic approach to reduce dependence on any single country for critical supplies.
The Biden administration’s policies have introduced challenges, particularly in the manufacturing sector. It’s crucial to attract a skilled workforce and gradually build local capabilities without stringent regulations that hinder progress.
Globally, conflicts and geopolitical tensions pose challenges. However, the focus on fundamental issues like healthcare, food, and clean water can help bridge divides. The U.S. continues to value individual freedoms and innovation, which sets us apart.
VentureBeat: What are your thoughts on the global economy and its impact on tech markets in the year ahead?
Shapiro: Global conflicts are a concern, especially recent events that resonate on a personal level. However, I remain optimistic. Interest rates seem to have peaked, and there’s ongoing investment in housing and other sectors.
Our industry plays a crucial role in improving the human condition through innovations in health, water, and air quality. Despite short-term challenges, I believe in technology’s potential to solve major problems and drive progress. My role is to ensure that innovation continues to thrive, and CES is a testament to that progress. I’m excited about the array of innovations we’ll showcase, which promise to make life better for everyone.