Cesium was really grateful to be back at CES this January 11-14. Despite the transition from an incomparable Las Vegas atmosphere to a completely virtual setting, it was encouraging to see our suppliers, customers, and competitors back on this year’s program. With how much business and life have changed in the last 365, it is fortunate that our industry continues to prosper in this new economy.
The Forecast
As always, Cesium’s attendees left the conference having learned about the latest industry innovations and developed a sense of what the new year has in store. Here is a quick take on the high-level industry forecast:
- Caution: Bumpy Road Ahead – Expect the bumpiness to continue as the new year begins but for things to smoothen out as the year progresses.
- Hot New Product & Category Drops – Our team shared excitement for key upcoming product releases, from new Popsocket designs to the introduction of JLab Audio’s GO Work office headset to the latest OtterBox Gaming accessories.
- Making MagSafe Moves – Cesium Co-Owner and Managing Director, Vicken Kanadjian expects a big year for the Made for MagSafe industry segment.
The pros and cons of a virtual CES experience
Of course, CES 2021 was completely virtual. The change resulted in almost every meeting containing a “we can’t hear you. You’re on mute.” and a “can you see my screen?” While some new lingo brought a few chuckles, traditional aspects were sorely missed.
In light of the changes, a couple of minor advantages emerged. Firstly, never before were participants able to attend so many meetings in so little time. This efficiency was conceivable because participant schedules did not have to account for walking-time between presentations.
Secondly, for some participants, note-taking and organizing information was simpler since everything took place digitally. Sorting through photo apps for pictures of slides was a thing of the past.
While these advantages were marginal, they presented the bright side of an event whose limitations were brought on by a need to respect social distance. However, it is with a strong preference that participants are eager to return to Vegas for CES as soon as possible.
Flashback to CES 2020! 
Three key factors were notably absent in this rendition. Firstly, human interaction and relationship development. The chemistry that develops between business partners is limited when interactions are restricted to online only. It is always great to connect via any means, but deeper connections happen more easily in person.
Secondly, it is just an unfortunate reality that attendees cannot demo products virtually. At past conferences, one could go around and physically experience and test products. Due to this year’s constraints, the same effects were not achievable online.
Lastly, the event lacked the hype, buzz, and energy that can only be created by actually being in Vegas. Todd DeWare, Senior National Account Manager, Ontario, summed it up best, “you do not get the same hype and sense for what could change the market as you would at the conference. For example, a new company could be presenting a product that absolutely takes off, and you hear the buzz, and [it drives you] to go visit that booth. That does not happen with pre-set video calls.” Needless to say, everyone is anxious for the time to come when CES can safely be held in Vegas again.
Nevertheless, a big ‘thank you’ goes out to our partners, customers, and team. Their brilliant display of adaptability and commitment made CES 2021 possible. In the face of seemingly endless uncertainty, it took great resilience and excellent resourcefulness to host this year’s event.
