Another CES is in the books, and wow—what a whirlwind! From jaw-dropping product launches to unexpected trends, the tech world converged in Las Vegas to show off its latest and greatest, and PR professionals were right in the thick of it all. Whether you’re still recovering from the Vegas hustle or plotting your next move, here are some key takeaways from CES 2025 that can supercharge your PR strategy for the year ahead.
- Tech Trends That Stole the Show
CES 2025 proved that innovation is accelerating at breakneck speed. Key trends included:
- Generative AI Everywhere: From hyper-realistic virtual assistants to creative tools, generative AI dominated the spotlight. For instance, the Nvidia Cosmos AI model demonstrated how it turns digital models of roads, homes, etc. into simulations!
- Sustainability in Focus: Solar-powered devices and recyclable materials made waves, showing that green tech is now a mainstream priority. A prime examples was Hydrific’s Droplet which tracks water usage and detects leaks in homes using ultrasonic sensors and AI.
- Smart Living Evolved: From AI-integrated appliances including robot vacuums from Eureka and smart home security from TO Link to health-monitoring wearables, “smart” tech became even smarter and more personalized.
One unforgettable moment came during Delta’s keynote, where the company unveiled cutting-edge travel technologies, including AI-driven systems aimed at enhancing customer experiences both on the ground and in the air. It was a powerful reminder that innovation isn’t confined to gadgets—it’s transforming industries.
For PR pros, these trends underscored the importance of aligning messaging with real-world benefits. The brands that stood out didn’t just pitch tech—they pitched transformative stories that resonated emotionally and practically.
- Hybrid Events Are Here to Stay
With the virtual and in-person elements blending seamlessly, hybrid formats shone bright. Brands utilized livestreams, virtual showrooms, and online Q&A sessions to engage global audiences.For PR teams, this means developing robust digital assets alongside on-site plans. Virtual media kits, polished demo videos, and real-time Q&A opportunities can significantly expand your reach.
- Timing and Exclusives Still Matter
Pre-event exclusives and well-timed releases were essential to cutting through the noise. Early morning or pre-show announcements secured better traction than late-afternoon updates.The lesson? Plan your announcements strategically, and don’t underestimate the power of an exclusive.
- Social Media Dominance, with a Twist
While TikTok and Instagram dominated for real-time engagement, LinkedIn emerged as an unexpected star for thought leadership and B2B networking. Brands that embraced platform-specific strategies—like behind-the-scenes TikToks and insightful LinkedIn posts—captured diverse audiences.A standout addition this year was the CES Creator Space, which provided a hub for influencers and content creators to collaborate and showcase real-time content. Brands leveraged this dedicated area to create viral moments, produce high-quality videos, and engage directly with creators to amplify their presence.
Additionally, the C+A Global booth, in particular, was a hit among creators for its Kodak+portfolio. From hands-on demos of their latest instant camera and projectors to photo opportunities designed for Instagram, C+A Global’s approach highlighted the value of experiential marketing tailored to social platforms. Influencers and attendees flocked to share their content, helping gain traction across multiple channels.
Pro tip: Stay agile. Adapt your content to each platform’s strengths, and integrate creator partnerships to extend your reach authentically.
- Relationships Over Everything
Despite all the tech, CES 2025 proved that relationships are still at the heart of great PR. Brands that had cultivated strong media relationships pre-show earned the best coverage.The reminder? Nurture your connections year-round. The best pitches come from trust, not just timing.
Final Thoughts: What Happens in Vegas Shouldn’t Stay There
CES 2025 was a masterclass in innovation, adaptation, and storytelling. Whether it’s leveraging generative AI, focusing on sustainability, or blending digital and physical experiences, the lessons from CES can drive impactful PR campaigns all year long.
So, let’s take the lessons we learned on the CES floor and use them to create standout campaigns all year long. Because when it comes to PR, the show never really ends—and that’s the beauty of it.
Until next year, CES. You’ve been electrifying (pun absolutely intended).
