Robots that can do laundry and more, plus unrolling laptops: the standout tech from CES 2026

The 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas showcased a remarkable range of innovative technologies, highlighting significant advances in robotics, home appliances, and computing devices. Among the most eye-catching developments were humanoid robots capable of performing household chores such as folding laundry, making breakfast, and serving drinks. LG’s CLOiD home robot, which resembles a disembodied torso on wheels, demonstrated autonomous operation linked with LG kitchen appliances and is slated for real-world testing next year. Similarly, Switchbot’s Onero H1 combines the features of a security robot and a vacuum cleaner, equipped with articulating arms to assist with chores and expected to be available later this year. Other Chinese robotics companies like Unitree, Booster Robotics, and X-Humanoid also presented impressive prototypes, with X-Humanoid recently winning a humanoid robot half-marathon in Beijing. Notably, Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot received a redesign under Hyundai’s ownership, with plans to deploy water-resistant, battery-swapping units capable of lifting 50 kg in manufacturing plants within a few years, supported by AI research in partnership with Google’s DeepMind.

Robot vacuum cleaners, a more common household robot, have also evolved with new capabilities. Dreame’s Cyber10 Ultra features an arm that can lift up to 500 grams and uses various brushes and nozzles for enhanced cleaning, expected to launch around August 2026 at approximately €1,800 (£1,560). More futuristic is Dreame’s Cyber X concept, which uses four legs and tank-like tracks to potentially overcome the longstanding challenge of climbing stairs. Roborock’s Saros Rover prototype takes a different approach with two wheels and legs that allow it to raise, lower, and jump onto steps, cleaning each one as it goes. These innovations could significantly improve the utility and convenience of robot vacuums in multi-level homes.

Smart home appliances also received upgrades, particularly refrigerators. Samsung introduced its Family Hub fridge featuring a front screen and voice-controlled doors that open and close hands-free, enhancing accessibility and convenience. GE’s new Profile fridge includes a barcode scanner designed to track items as they are discarded, automatically updating a shopping list. Additionally, an internal camera allows users to remotely monitor the contents, helping to manage food inventory and reduce waste.

In computing, Lenovo unveiled two standout laptop concepts. The Legion Pro Rollable features a 16-inch OLED screen that can unroll horizontally to expand into a 24-inch display, catering to gamers and professionals seeking portable productivity. The ThinkPad Plus Gen 7 Auto Twist moves from concept to product with a motorised hinge that automatically rotates the screen to face the user or an audience, facilitating presentations and collaborative work. These innovations reflect a trend toward flexible and adaptive computing devices that respond to user needs in dynamic environments.

Folding phones and nostalgic devices also made an appearance. Samsung showcased its Galaxy Z TriFold, a trifolding Android phone-tablet hybrid with a flexible screen that unfolds like a pamphlet to reveal a large tablet display. Having launched in South Korea at the end of 2025, it is expected to reach other markets, including the US, in early 2026 at a premium price. Meanwhile, the accessory company Clicks revived the BlackBerry experience with the Communicator, an Android phone featuring a physical keyboard and custom software prioritising messaging over social media distractions. The Communicator can function as a primary phone or complement an existing device, with features like a notification LED and a fingerprint scanner embedded in the space bar. Reservations are open for shipment later this year. Clicks also introduced the Power Keyboard, a slide-out Bluetooth keyboard and magnetic wireless charging battery pack compatible with iPhones and Android devices supporting Qi2, expected to ship in spring 2026.

CES 2026 demonstrated the accelerating convergence of robotics, smart home technology, and flexible computing. The transition of many prototypes into production models suggests these innovations will soon become part of everyday life. From humanoid robots assisting with household chores to laptops that adapt their form factor and phones that blend nostalgia with modern functionality, the event highlighted how technology continues to evolve to meet diverse user needs and preferences.