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Every January, CES sets the stage for what people will buy, upgrade, and trade in over the next year. CES 2026 made one thing clear: we're entering an AI-driven era where your current devices are losing value faster than ever.
Here's what launched at CES this year and why it matters if you're sitting on tech you're ready to upgrade.
CES 2026 confirmed that AI isn't a feature anymore, it's the foundation.
Laptops unveiled this year come equipped with dedicated AI chips (NPUs) that handle everything from real-time transcription to adaptive power management that learns your work habits.
What this means for you: If your laptop is 2–3 years old, it's at peak trade-in value right now. Once AI-native systems flood the market, older models will see significant declines in resale value.
This year's phones aren't just faster, they're contextually intelligent. On-device AI now powers photo editing, voice assistants that understand intent, and battery optimization that adapts to how you actually use your phone.
What this means for you: If your current phone doesn't support on-device AI, it's already a generation behind. Trade it in now before the value gap widens.
Fitness trackers are out. Health dashboards are in.
Smart rings, watches, and bands unveiled at CES now offer continuous monitoring of heart rate, sleep quality, and stress levels, plus AI-powered insights that help you make preventative health decisions.
TV tech at CES prioritized experience over resolution. Manufacturers showcased massive OLED and MicroLED displays with AI-driven image processing that upscales older content in real time and personalizes interfaces based on viewing habits.
Electric vehicles with software-defined features, advanced driver assistance, and seamless integration between car, phone, and home dominated CES conversations this year.
What this means for you: Like any tech platform, older models lose value faster once software-based upgrades become standard. If you're planning to upgrade your vehicle, timing matters more than ever.
CES isn't just about new electronics, it's a reminder that the items sitting on your desk right now is losing value every day.
This year's announcements confirmed three critical trends:
- AI-native hardware is now the baseline, not a premium feature
- Upgrade cycles are accelerating across every device category
- Depreciation happens faster than ever, waiting costs you real money
If you're planning to upgrade this year, now is the time to trade-in your current devices before the market floods with newer, AI-powered options and your trade-in value drops.
CES 2026 revealed a future where technology adapts to us. But as innovation accelerates, so does depreciation.
New tech is exciting. Trading in at the right time? That's just smart.
