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CNET Group Set to Unveil Expanded Best of CES™ Awards

CNET Group, renowned for its array of tech publications including CNET, PCMag, Mashable, ZDNET, and Lifehacker, is ready to take center stage at CES® 2026, further solidifying its role as a premier storyteller in the technology sector. As the Consumer Technology Association's (CTA) official partner for the second consecutive year, CNET Group is set to double the number of award categories for the Best of CES™, ensuring a broader celebration of innovation in consumer technology.

Expansion of Award Categories

In an exciting move, this year will see the introduction of eleven new categories, which include Best Parent Tech, Best Kitchen Tech, and Best Age Tech, along with other categories that showcase the multifaceted impact of technology on various industries. This expansion reflects CNET Group's commitment to recognizing groundbreaking innovations that resonate with consumers.

Exclusive Live Event

Mark your calendars for January 7, 2026, at 4 p.m. PST, as CNET Group hosts a live ceremony to reveal the award winners. The event will take place on the CTA Stage at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Grand Lobby. Two prominent personalities from CNET Group, Bridget Carey and Iyaz Akhtar, will be hosting this much-anticipated ceremony, where attendees can expect a dynamic atmosphere filled with excitement and recognition for the best and brightest in tech.

On-the-Ground Coverage

CNET Group will provide extensive editorial coverage from the CES show floor, reaching an impressive global audience of 71 million monthly visitors and over 65 million social followers. Journalists from the group will deliver in-depth reporting that highlights significant technological advancements set to impact the upcoming year. Coverage will span all of CNET Group's platforms, ensuring a comprehensive look at CES 2026 through articles, videos, and social media engagements.

CNET’s rich media output has surpassed 1 billion collective vertical annual views, making it a go-to source for tech enthusiasts eager to stay updated on innovations shaping their lives. Video offerings will include expert commentary, live Q&A sessions, and collaborative content aimed at immersing audiences in the CES experience.

Thought Leadership Panels

In addition to the awards, CNET Group will curate a series of panels featuring top leaders from the tech industry. These discussions will dive deep into critical trends and thoughts shaping technology today and what lies ahead for 2026. Topics will range from advancements in artificial intelligence to consumer behaviors in the tech landscape.

After-Hours Event: The Lab by CNET Group

An after-hours event promises to further amplify the CES experience. Titled The Lab, the event serves as an interactive playground where technology enthusiasts and industry insiders can explore and engage with the latest advancements. It will take place at Zouk on the Las Vegas Strip at 8 p.m. PT. Sponsored by HR Block and Acer, this unique event will combine technology, creativity, and entertainment, featuring a range of interactive installations designed to provoke curiosity and inspire innovation.

Expect electrifying musical performances alongside cutting-edge brand activations that encapsulate the spirit of modern technology culture. Highlights will include the debut of an immersive hyperlapse videobooth experience, inviting participants to engage creatively while reflecting the essence of CES.

Conclusion

CNET Group continues to exemplify its dynamic role in technology journalism and storytelling through its engagements at CES 2026. With an expanded awards program and an emphasis on community involvement, CNET Group is set to be a beacon of innovation and inspiration, shaping the narrative of technology for years to come. For those who are part of the technology ecosystem or simply passionate about tech, CES 2026 promises to be a pivotal event.

Join CNET Group this January and step into the future of technology!