The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 is set to unfold in Las Vegas from Tuesday, January 7th, to Saturday, January 11th, bringing together the biggest names in technology, including NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Samsung, LG, and Sony. Known for shaping the tech landscape for the year ahead, this year’s CES 2025 event promises major announcements across multiple sectors, from graphics cards and gaming laptops to displays and smart devices.
NVIDIA and AMD: The Graphics Card Showdown
One of the most anticipated highlights of CES 2025 is the unveiling of new graphics card lineups by NVIDIA and AMD. NVIDIA is expected to reveal its RTX 50 Series, including the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090, with desktop and laptop variants taking centre stage. The launch order marks a shift in strategy, as the RTX 5080 will debut before the flagship RTX 5090. Mid-range options like the RTX 5070 and 5070 Ti are likely to be saved for later announcements at the GTC in March.
AMD will counter with its Radeon RX 9000 series for desktops and Radeon RX 8000 series for laptops. Based on RDNA4 and RDNA3.5 architectures respectively, AMD’s top-tier Radeon RX 9070 XT and 9070 cards are set to challenge NVIDIA’s mid-range offerings. However, the absence of a true high-end contender from AMD underscores their cautious approach following recent market challenges.
Intel, having recently launched its Arc Battlemage series, might focus on showcasing additional B700 and B900 cards alongside new processors, such as the Arrow Lake-S Intel Core Ultra 200 series. Meanwhile, speculation surrounds NVIDIA’s foray into Arm-based processors, a development that could reshape the CPU market.
The Display Landscape: Incremental Innovation
The display segment at CES 2025 is expected to evolve conservatively. While 8K technology remains out of reach for mainstream adoption, mini-LED, QLED, and OLED technologies continue gaining traction. LG will introduce the world’s first foldable OLED monitor, accompanied by curved OLED models, while Samsung will showcase its QD-OLED Odyssey lineup.
Sony’s showcase might extend beyond TVs, potentially unveiling new games or films, as seen in past CES events. The HDMI Forum is also expected to announce HDMI 2.2, enabling resolutions up to 10K@120 Hz, although immediate practical benefits for consumers may be limited.
Gaming Laptops and Handhelds: The Next Generation
CES remains a critical platform for gaming laptops and handheld devices. With mobile versions of AMD’s Radeon RX 8000 and NVIDIA’s RTX 50 Series on the horizon, manufacturers are likely to unveil refreshed models featuring these GPUs. Integration of advanced chips like AMD’s Strix Halo and Ryzen AI Max 300 could push performance boundaries, with innovations such as 3D V-Cache memory promising to redefine gaming laptops.
On the handheld front, Lenovo is set to announce the Legion Go S, a budget-friendly alternative to its popular Legion Go. AMD’s upcoming Ryzen Z2 series APUs are expected to power devices like the ASUS ROG Ally 2, offering a glimpse into the future of portable gaming.
AI, Connectivity, and Smart Devices
Artificial Intelligence remains a central theme at CES 2025, with companies focusing on more practical and refined applications. Unlike last year’s experimental products, this year’s AI integrations are expected to prioritise functionality in smart speakers, displays, and appliances. LG, for instance, plans to unveil AI-enhanced home devices, though their necessity remains debatable.
Wi-Fi 7, already a focal point in 2024, will see broader adoption, with affordable routers and modems expanding access. Smart devices compatible with Matter, the universal home automation standard, could also gain traction, addressing interoperability concerns.
Virtual and Mixed Reality: A Turning Point
CES 2025 might signal a shift from traditional Virtual Reality (VR) to Mixed and Augmented Reality (MR/AR). Android XR-compatible devices could emerge, potentially replacing standalone VR headsets. Smart glasses, inspired by the success of Ray-Ban Meta, may dominate this space, highlighting the industry’s pivot towards more versatile and everyday-use technologies.
A Year of Possibilities
CES 2025 is poised to set the stage for technological advancements across various sectors. From the latest graphics cards and gaming devices to AI-driven appliances and innovative displays, the event promises a mix of cutting-edge developments and practical innovations. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, gamer, or industry professional, CES 2025 is sure to offer a glimpse into the future of technology.
