CES 2026: What to Expect from AMD, NVIDIA, and Intel
CES 2026, the annual Consumer Electronics Show, is set to take place in Las Vegas from January 6 to 9, 2026, and promises to be a showcase of cutting-edge technology from some of the biggest names in the industry. Here's a breakdown of what we can expect from AMD, NVIDIA, and Intel at this year's event.
AMD: AI-Centric Innovations and Refreshes
- Ryzen 9000X3D, 9000G, and Ryzen AI 400 Updates: AMD is expected to unveil refreshed versions of its popular Ryzen 9000 series processors, including the Ryzen 9000X3D with enhanced 3D V-Cache technology, the Ryzen 9000G desktop APUs featuring Zen 5 and RDNA 3.5 architecture, and the Ryzen AI 400 'Gorgon Point' laptops, offering improved performance and AI capabilities.
- AI Strategy and Demos: Dr. Lisa Su will deliver a keynote on AMD's AI strategy, covering cloud, enterprise, edge, and consumer devices. The company will also showcase its AI PCs, gaming hardware, data center solutions, and edge AI products in the AMD Connect demo area, providing a hands-on experience for attendees.
Intel: AI-Powered Laptops and Workstations
- Core Ultra Series 3 'Panther Lake': Intel is set to launch the Core Ultra Series 3, codenamed 'Panther Lake,' during CES. This next-generation client processor will focus on AI-powered laptops and feature improved performance and efficiency.
- Xeon 6 Workstation and Nova Lake Updates: Intel is expected to unveil the Xeon 6 Workstation, an update to its HEDT platform, targeting high-end workstation systems. Additionally, Intel may showcase Nova Lake desktop processors and future AI PCs, providing a comprehensive roadmap for the year ahead.
NVIDIA: AI-Driven Demos and Laptops
- CES Foundry Experience: NVIDIA will participate in the CES Foundry Experience, showcasing AI-focused demos on RTX PCs, data center platforms, robotics, and automotive applications. While no separate keynote is listed, NVIDIA's presence will be significant.
- RTX AI PCs and Gaming Laptops: NVIDIA is likely to promote RTX AI PCs and refreshed gaming laptops with existing RTX 50 mobile GPUs. The company will also showcase new laptops powered by AMD Ryzen 400 and Intel Core Ultra 300 CPUs, catering to the AI-driven market.
Qualcomm: X2 Elite and Gaming Demos
- Snapdragon X2 Elite and X2 Elite Extreme: Qualcomm will unveil its next-generation PC chips, the Snapdragon X2 Elite and X2 Elite Extreme, with the first systems expected in the first half of 2026. Hardware reveals are anticipated at CES, covering laptops, mini PCs, and potentially all-in-one desktops.
What We'd Like to See (But Probably Won't):
- Zen 6 Demo and RDNA5 Update: While AMD and NVIDIA are expected to showcase their latest technologies, a Zen 6 demo and an RDNA5 update might be surprising additions, as these are typically unveiled at separate events or in the future.
CES 2026 promises to be an exciting event, with these tech giants showcasing their latest innovations and strategies. Stay tuned for more updates as the show approaches!
