CES gadget gala looks to shake off economic gloom
The annual CES consumer electronics extravaganza throws open its doors in Las Vegas on Thursday as the industry looks to the latest innovations to help cure the pain from an ailing global economy. High inflation, lingering supply chain troubles and tech company layoffs provide a dark backdrop for technology's premier trade show where more than 100,000 attendees are expected from around the world until Sunday. Consumer Technology Association research director Steve Koenig reminded CES goers of previous innovations from smartphones to high-speed internet that soared to success after the "last big economic downturn" more than a decade ago. "This time, I think the powerful new waves of technological change that will really remedy inflation and restore global GDP growth will come from the enterprise side," Koenig said during a presentation by the CTA, which runs CES. These will include robotics to make workplaces more efficient; on-the-job virtual reality, and a...