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Robots Climb Stairs, Phones Get Keyboards Back!
9 Jan
Summary
- Stair-climbing robot vacuums and voice-controlled fridges debut.
- Humanoid robots capable of chores showcased at the tech show.
- BlackBerry returns with a physical keyboard Android phone.
This year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas showcased a wave of futuristic technology, including robots capable of complex tasks like laundry and stair-climbing. Humanoid robots, some operating autonomously, demonstrated impressive capabilities, moving beyond mere prototypes. Companies like LG and Switchbot presented home robots, while Boston Dynamics' Atlas robot is set for deployment in manufacturing plants by Hyundai within the next couple of years.
Innovations extended to home appliances and personal devices. Robot vacuums are gaining new abilities, with models like Dreame's Cyber X concept featuring four legs for stair navigation and Roborock's Saros Rover in development for step-by-step cleaning. Refrigerators now boast voice-controlled doors and integrated barcode scanners for automated shopping lists. Laptops featured unique designs, such as Lenovo's concept with a horizontally unrolling screen, expanding from 16 to 24 inches.
Consumer electronics also saw a retro-futuristic revival. Samsung revealed a tri-folding phone-tablet hybrid expected in early 2026. For BlackBerry enthusiasts, the new Clicks Communicator revives the physical keyboard on an Android device, aiming to prioritize communication. Accessory maker Clicks also introduced a slide-out keyboard that magnetically attaches to smartphones, doubling as a wireless charging pack.
