Tech pulse number #5 January 10th 2026 CES wraps up

Hey tech fans

CES 2026 has officially wrapped. Here are the final takeaways and best of show picks:

1. Switchbot Onero H1 Helper Robot Coming This Year Under 10K

What happened: Switchbot demoed the Onero H1, a helper robot that can pick up clothes and load washing machines. Unlike most CES robots, this one is actually launching in 2026. Price will be under $10,000.

Why it matters: Most robot demos at CES never ship. Switchbot is committing to actual sales this year. Still expensive, but brings home robots closer to consumer reality.

The demo: Limited to laundry tasks in the demo, but Switchbot claims it can handle an array of household chores. Works slowly compared to humans but it's autonomous.

Our take: Under $10K is still out of reach for most people, but it's progress from the $50K prototype robots we usually see. If it actually works reliably, early adopters will buy it.

Source: https://www.engadget.com/engadgets-best-of-ces-2026-all-the-new-tech-that-caught-our-eye-in-las-vegas-200057123.html

2. Lego Smart Play Wins Over Star Wars Fans

What happened: Lego's Smart Play platform with interactive bricks that sense light and distance won best of show buzz. Partnership with Star Wars means X Wing battles with sound effects and interactive lightsaber duels.

Why it matters: Lego nailed the execution. Technology fades into background, no setup required, it just works. When Lucasfilm brought out Chewbacca and R2D2, they won the fandom.

The tech: Smart bricks contain sensors for lights, sounds, and distance detection. Works in unison with special minifigs. Interactive space battles become possible with physical Lego.

Our take: This is how you integrate digital into physical play correctly. Technology enhances imagination instead of replacing it. Launches March 2026.

Source: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2026/01/10/the-coolest-technology-from-day-1-of-ces-2026/

3. Dell Admits Mistake Brings Back XPS Brand

What happened: Dell officially brought back the XPS brand after replacing it with "Premium" branding in 2025. New XPS 14 and XPS 16 laptops announced at CES with the classic naming restored.

Why it matters: Dell listened to customer feedback and reversed a bad decision. The XPS brand had decades of equity. Replacing it with generic "Premium" was always going to fail.

Our take: This is how you handle a branding mistake. Admit it, fix it fast, move on. The new XPS laptops look exactly like what customers wanted all along.

Source: https://www.engadget.com/engadgets-best-of-ces-2026-all-the-new-tech-that-caught-our-eye-in-las-vegas-200057123.html

4. TSMC Revenue Surge Signals AI Buildout Still Accelerating

What happened: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing reported quarterly revenue that topped expectations, signaling the AI infrastructure buildout is accelerating into 2026.

Why it matters: TSMC sits at center of AI supply chain. When they see increased orders for advanced chips and packaging, it means hyperscalers are still spending aggressively on AI infrastructure.

The implication: This supports a higher for longer cycle in AI infrastructure spending. Equipment makers, substrate suppliers, and optimization software startups all benefit downstream.

Our take: Despite all the talk about AI bubble bursting, the actual chip demand tells a different story. Money is still flowing into AI infrastructure at record pace.

Source: https://techstartups.com/2026/01/09/top-tech-news-today-january-9-2026/

5. Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable Most Wanted CES Concept

What happened: Lenovo's Legion Pro Rollable laptop with screen that expands from 16 inches to 23.8 inches won over critics as the concept most likely to become real product.

Why it matters: Adjustable aspect ratios solve real problems for gamers and professionals. 16:10 for portability, 21:9 for racing games, 24:9 for flight sims. All in one device.

The look: Ungainly when fully deployed, but the functionality is undeniable. Perfect for people who need both portable machine and massive screen real estate.

Our take: Of all CES concepts, this is the one we actually want to buy. Durability is the question, but if Lenovo can make rolling mechanism reliable, this changes laptop category.

Source: https://www.engadget.com/ces-2026-live-updates-on-the-latest-gadgets-at-the-biggest-tech-event-of-the-year-153146311.html

QUICK STATS

$10,000 maximum price for Switchbot Onero H1 robot

23.8 inches fully expanded screen size on Lenovo rollable laptop

March 2026 launch for Lego Smart Play Star Wars sets

4,000 plus exhibitors at CES 2026 in Las Vegas

CES 2026 FINAL VERDICT

Most likely to actually ship: Switchbot Onero H1 robot

Best integration of tech and play: Lego Smart Play

Smartest brand reversal: Dell bringing back XPS

Biggest surprise: AI infrastructure spending still accelerating

CES 2027 is already on the calendar for next January. What product announced this year are you most likely to actually buy?