Consumer Technology Association or CTA has announced that it is taking CES 2021 all digital. This decision of making CES 2021 digital-only affair is taken keeping the coronavirus pandemic situation across the globe. Every year the CES event happens at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. However, the 2021 event will now officially be a digital event.
Previously, in one of our reports, we have highlighted that CTA announced in a press release that they are planning to have an in-person CES event. This would be similar to past events that have happened in Las Vegas. But with a few changes of course, like keeping COVID-19 pandemic in mind. CTA was planning for a health-conscious event with masks, hand-sanitizers, and following all the social distancing norms. However, the recent official announcement has put this is not going to happen.
The decision also reflects the association’s concern over the rising numbers of COVID patients in the US. Moreover, this would be the first time in history, that an all-digital CES will take place in January 2021.
CES 2021 will still feature keynotes, product showcases, and networking opportunities
In a statement, President and CEO of CTA, Gary Shapiro said, “Amid the pandemic and growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it’s just not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person. Technology helps us all work, learn, and connect during the pandemic — and that innovation will also help us reimagine CES 2021 and bring together the tech community in a meaningful way. By shifting to an all-digital platform for 2021, we can deliver a unique experience that helps our exhibitors connect with existing and new audiences.”
Besides, in a LinkedIn post, Shapiro also clarified that it will not be safe to gather around 100,000 people indoors amidst the ongoing pandemic scenario. Moreover, with less hope of a vaccine by January 2021, it is a safe bet to go all-digital. Notably, CES is one of the most sought after tech and innovation event of the year. It draws nearly 170,000 tech-enthusiasts from across the globe. However, CES 2021 event will still feature the keynotes, networking opportunities, and product showcases despite going digital.
Notably, other tech giants like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Facebook, and others have already canceled their in-person events scheduled for 2020. And keeping in mind the ongoing situation, it is the best move to keep people safe. Apparently, we hope that the next in-person CES event would happen in 2022.