CES 2006: Top Products and Trends that Defined the Show

Strategic Insights -

The Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas was an exciting event that brought together some of the biggest names in the industry. After four long days of walking the show floor, I was able to identify the top products and trends that made a lasting impression.

Key Takeaways:

  • Flat-panel displays were the wave of the future, despite their high prices.
  • Sony, Phillips, Delphi, and others offered press kits on USB flash drives, making it easier for journalists to access information.
  • Voom HD and HDTV brought niche channels to consumers, offering a new level of content for high-definition TV owners.
  • Windows Vista and Microsoft's Urge partnership brought a new level of entertainment software and hardware to the market, featuring a subscription service of over 2 million tracks and access to MTV's video library.
  • Intel's Viiv initiative aimed to make it easier for consumers to select the right hardware for their entertainment needs, with a focus on convergence and a "cable box" look.
  • Dish Network's PocketDish was a notable portable media center device, with a sleek 7" widescreen display and easy transfer of video and MP3s from a DVR or TiVo To Go.
  • The Blu-Ray and HD-DVD format wars continued, with both sides featuring stunning displays and heavy hitter supporters.
  • Mobile phones were taking major leaps forward, with next-generation devices supporting MP3 playback, mobile video, and more.

Statistics:

  • 10 companies offered press kits on USB flash drives at the show.
  • Voom HD announced 12 new channels, including Monsters HD, Gameplay HD, and Kung Fu HD.
  • Windows Vista will feature a 3D View that allows users to view all open tabs in circular 3D windows.
  • Urge will have a subscription service of over 2 million tracks.
  • Intel Viiv capabilities will include a dual-core processor, platform software, and wired networking.
  • Dish Network's PocketDish has a 7" widescreen display and stores up to 40 GB of content.
  • The first HD-DVD player will be priced at $499 or $799 and will be available in March or April.

Sources:

  • Sony
  • Phillips
  • Delphi
  • Microsoft
  • MTV
  • Intel
  • Dish Network
  • Toshiba
  • Samsung
  • LG
  • Palm