Electronic Specifier Design Magazine, January 2025
As I stepped into the buzzing halls of CES 2025, it was clear I was entering a world where innovation takes centre stage. From towering displays of cutting-edge AI technology to intimate conversations with passionate startup founders, the event was a whirlwind of ideas, connections, and discoveries.
The sheer scale of the show was awe-inspiring. Over 4,500 exhibitors from 150 countries packed the exhibition spaces, showcasing everything from quantum computing breakthroughs to sustainable energy solutions. What struck me most, though, was the energy of the people. Whether it was a CEO unveiling a next-generation product, a startup founder pitching their dream, or a fellow journalist scribbling furiously in a notebook, the excitement was palpable.
One of the standout experiences for me was spending time at Eureka Park, the dedicated startup hub. Walking through this vibrant space (which featured 1,400 startups by the way!) felt like a journey into the future, as entrepreneurs from across the globe demonstrated technologies poised to transform our lives.
Kinsey Fabrizio, President of CTA, said: “From groundbreaking innovations that improve lives to transformative ideas that redefine industries, CES is a celebration of the art of the possible, showcasing how technology enriches our world and inspires a brighter future for all.”
AI-powered startups dominated discussions, demonstrating solutions that ranged from medical diagnostics to autonomous navigation. Founders shared how machine learning is not only improving efficiencies but also opening new avenues for creativity and problem-solving.
Sustainability was a major theme, with startups presenting next-generation battery technology, bioplastics, and alternative energy solutions. Startups also addressed critical needs in accessibility, with technologies designed to empower people with disabilities and improve inclusivity in everyday life.
Speaking with some of these innovators brought home just how much passion and determination go into building something new.
While startups were the heart of CES, the big players certainly didn’t disappoint. NVIDIA’s keynote was a particular highlight, with CEO Jensen Huang introducing the GeForce RTX 5000 Series and Agentic AI. Intel had a plethora of new announcements as it said it was looking to support the automotive industry through a turbulent time and bring fresh new innovation to vehicles. Qualcomm also showcased how the company is driving the transformation of user experiences across diverse device categories, including PCs, automobiles, smart homes, and into enterprises.
Beyond the tech itself, the conversations I had during the show were equally illuminating. As part of our coverage, Electronic Specifier and Startups Magazine conducted video interviews with top electronics companies and startup founders, diving into the stories behind their innovations.
A particular highlight for me was chatting with Nordic Semiconductor CEO, Vegard Wollan. Wollan recently celebrated one year in his current role, and it was interesting to hear about his achievements over the last 12 months, as well as his plans for the future. And I must mention this really cool startup I interviewed called Lotus – they’ve designed a smart ring that allows you to control household devices just by pointing at them…seriously, check out the video of me trialling it on Startups Magazine’s YouTube channel!
Hearing directly from these leaders about their challenges and triumphs gave me a fresh appreciation for the role of technology in solving global problems.
