The wait is over — CES Foundry officially opened its doors as the premier destination for AI and quantum breakthroughs. Featuring live demos, two stages of immersive content and unparalleled networking opportunities, the inaugural CES Foundry is where emerging leaders and established names converged to have conservations about how AI and quantum can improve the way we live, work and connect with one another. One highlight of opening day: White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios and CTA President Kinsey Fabrizio exploring how innovation, collaboration and policy are driving America’s AI leadership.

Joe Creed, Caterpillar’s CEO, took the stage with a big message: the company isn’t just about heavy machinery anymore — it’s going high-tech. His keynote painted a bold picture of Caterpillar’s future, where advanced technologies are redefining construction and equipment. And the star of the show? The new Cat AI Assistant. This powerful tool brings together Caterpillar’s entire digital ecosystem and high-quality data into one simple, conversational experience. Think of it as a smart, all-in-one partner for the job site.

In the morning, gaming took over the Accessibility Stage, powered by Verizon Accessibility, with Gaming for All: The Next Era of Gaming Accessibility. Later at ARIA, panels tackled hot topics including From Games to Universes: Expanding IP Across Media, Level Up: Women Leading the Future of Gaming, and Monetizing Gameplay: The Impact of Microtransactions. There’ll be more sessions focused solely on the gaming community on Thursday on the CTA Stage. Don’t miss it!

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, offered a first look at the semiquincentennial programs celebrating the American spirit of innovation and announced a new national initiative, America Innovates, the country’s first national university entrepreneurship competition. Students from around the country will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas, with winners receiving funding and mentorship from world class investors.

The CTA Foundation Pitch Competition, presented by Next50, showcased breakthrough tech designed to help older adults live independently at home. Startups pitched live to industry leaders, investors and media, proving that innovation can truly change lives. Congrats to the grand prize winner .lumen! See them Thursday at 10 AM on the Accessibility Stage, powered by Verizon Accessibility.

Before the day wrapped, CNET Group and its team of expert editors revealed the official Best of CES 2026 winners across 23 categories live on the CTA Stage, honoring the most impressive and useful innovations of the show. From smart homes to pet tech, catch the entire winning list on CNET.com.

First-timers to CES had a meetup at the Garden in LVCC’s Central Plaza. It was a great opportunity for newcomers to connect, share tips and build their CES network — and to make plans to come back next year.

The Smart Home Mixer at the Venetian, presented by Vivint and sponsored by Suvie and The Spoon, brought together the smart home community for collaboration and conversation.

Policymakers, technologists, media and entrepreneurs gathered at the Leaders in Technology Dinner for conversations at the intersection of innovation and technology policy. Tom Hale, CEO of ŌURA, shared his perspectives on evolving opportunities in health technology, data privacy, security and digital health regulation.

CTA's Brian Comisky, Sr. Director, Innovation and Trends, once again walked the CES show floor, and he's sharing some of the coolest tech he spotted along the way.

• WiRobotics – WM Kids; Venetian Campus, Venetian Halls A-D, Booth 54635 
• Dolby – Dolby Vision 2 and AC-4 Audio for Peacock; C Space Campus, Park MGM
• Coroflo – Coro Breastfeeding Monitor; Venetian Campus, Eureka Park, Booth 61454
• Iceplosion – Iceplosion Carbonated Slushie Machine; Venetian Campus, Eureka Park, Booth 60436
• Nosh Robotics – Nosh AI Cooking Robot; Venetian Campus, Eureka Park, Booth 61436