For the third consecutive year, generative artificial intelligence (AI) has taken center stage at CES, the world's largest consumer technology fair, held this week in Las Vegas, USA. The near ubiquity of AI is striking; companies utilizing it dominate the exhibition landscape. Notably, Lego has made headlines with its innovative presentation of a new brick that integrates electronics into its classic building elements for the first time since its inception in 1958.
Lego's “smart brick,” while not employing AI, resembles a traditional 2×4 brick with a significant difference. Inside lies a custom-designed chip, approximately four millimeters in size, which interprets data from accelerometers and other sensors—such as light and sound—to control a set of LEDs, a synthesizer, a mini-speaker, and a Bluetooth intercom system between toys.
This technology allows vehicles, boats, and spaceships equipped with the SMART Brick to produce sounds and lights in response to their proximity or user interactions during play. Lego is showcasing these hybrid toys in a dedicated space at the Las Vegas Convention Center, offering visitors a chance to experience a significantly more dynamic play experience. However, this technological advancement raises questions among adults about the future of imaginative play for children who may no longer need to create their own sound effects. The first sets featuring Lego SMART Bricks will be available for purchase starting March 1, including models from the Star Wars series and smart figures of characters like Darth Vader.
Lenovo's Innovative Screens
Across the fair, within the Sphere venue—capable of hosting 17,600 visitors—Lenovo is preparing for one of the most significant presentations at CES 2026. As a leading global seller of personal computers, Lenovo aims to showcase its new strategy to remain competitive in the AI race.
The company will also unveil its next generation of computers and tablets. Among the highlights are two concept models, the Legion Pro Rollable and the ThinkPad Rollable XD, featuring rollable OLED panel technology that extends the screen size. The Legion Pro expands horizontally from 16 to 24 inches, making it ideal for gaming, while the ThinkPad increases vertically from 13.3 to 16 inches, offering a nearly square format aimed at enhancing office productivity. These prototypes also include a rear mini-screen that displays the user's name and weather information, though its practical use remains uncertain.
Revolutionary Projector Technology
Another standout feature at CES is Samsung's new projector model, showcased at the First Look section. Known as The Freestyle+, this portable device revolutionizes the traditional concept of projectors.
The Freestyle+ eliminates the challenges of installation, allowing users to set it up without needing precise adjustments or complicated calculations regarding its position in relation to a wall or screen. The projector automatically self-adjusts to correct any image distortions, even when aimed at irregular surfaces like drapes or ceilings. Demonstrations of its capabilities highlight the accuracy of the AI-powered technology. Samsung emphasizes this innovation with promotional materials stating: “Powered by AI.”
