Apple tablet rumors may be stealing the electronics thunder in this post-Christmas season, but the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) promises to showcase plenty of innovative products that offer a sneak peak of what we can expect from manufacturers over the next few months. Despite a down economy, the number of new exhibitors shows a growing confidence in the market.
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) reports a record number of new exhibitors for this year’s Jan. 7-10 show in Las Vegas. More than 330 new companies will join the ranks of exhibit veterans to total nearly 3,000 manufacturers on the showroom floor. In all, more than 20,000 new products will be on display with products in key market categories including apps, green technology, gaming and location-based services.
“With a record number of new exhibitors, scores of new product introductions, several new spotlights on the show floor, and a dynamic lineup of keynote sessions, the 2010 International CES will be our best show yet,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA. “More technology deals will be made during the four days of CES than anywhere else on earth.”
Apple’s Presence
Although Apple CEO Steve Jobs is not expected to make an appearance at this year’s CES, plenty of top executives from some of the biggest names in technology and business will take the stage. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer will offer the keynote address. Ford’s Alan Mulally, Intel’s Paul Otellini, Qualcomm’s Dr. Paul Jacobs, Nokia’s Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, and Hisense’s Zhou Houjian will speak as part of the CES Technology and Emerging Countries Program.
The CEA has organized what it calls CE Spotlights to cover various technology categories on the show floor, including an iLounge Pavilion. As its name suggests, the pavilion will feature Apple products such as the iPhone, iPod and Mac. Another spotlight dubbed Living…