Introduction

The dust has settled on this years Consumer Electronics Show or CES, held in Las Vegas every year since 1998. Having visited on a number of occasions the show is vast, and everything that requires a plug or a battery can be found there! It’s a hotbed of new technology, attracting exhibitors, buyers and sellers from around the world. For the purpose of the Complete Voice & Data audience, this blog is focused on CES 2026 mobile telecoms round up and new hardware and software announcements.

What Are The New Phones?

Although CES is a global show, the two main mobile phone manufacturers, Apple and Samsung, choose to make their announcements at other times. Such is their size, an iPhone or Galaxy launch commands its own show! But let’s not be too worried about that, let’s look at the trends from the show.

• Folding Phones – these were out in force. Although first appearing 5 years ago, cost and reliability has restricted their adoption by consumers and business users. Motorola showcased the Razr Fold and not to be outdone Samsung the TriFold. To be honest, I’m still not convinced by a folding phone. Size, cost and reliability still need to be improved.
• Keypads – the Clicks Communicator reimagines the BlackBerry, bringing back a physical keypad while packing Android 16. A market opportunity waiting to be tapped or a misguided nostalgia? Time will tell.
• Cameraman – the new Honor ‘Robot Phone’ features a fold out camera lens which is mounted on a gimbal for stability when filming stills and video. Powered by AI the camera has a mind of its own and can decide what and when to film. Security, wildlife, influencer or novelty – the applications have yet to be fully explored.

Connectivity

• Satellite Connectivity – Ofcom recently announced it will allow mobile companies and satellite operators to join forces to use airwaves known as the mobile spectrum, subject to certain technical conditions. This means standard smartphones will be able to use the satellite network and (hopefully) eliminate network blackspots to deliver 100% coverage. This was a big story globally at CES.
• WiFi 8 – faster speeds, better connectivity, less drop outs and less interference. Unlikely to be fully available until 2028, WiFi 8 prioritises seamless connectivity over speed (unlike WiFi 7).

Artificial Intelligence

As anyone would predict, it was everywhere when it comes to mobile phones. Woven into the OS of your phone, AI will stop becoming a party trick and work alongside your camera, calendar, emails, documents and translation tools. Integration was the name of the game. For Business Mobile, AI will become your assistant or PA, if it hasn’t already!

Conclusion

Where does a phone end and a wearable start? Do you need a mobile network to connect or a satellite or WiFi signal? The lines between hardware and connection are becoming blurred.

Thankfully Complete Voice & Data are here to navigate through the technological change and cherry pick the developments that add true value, not novelty. We hope you enjoyed our CES 2026 mobile telecoms round up.