Artificial intelligence was everywhere at CES again this year, but unlike previous years, it felt a little more grounded.
Instead of big promises, it seems there were more real improvements—smarter gadgets, more efficient tools, and AI tech that might actually useful.
From home to health, here’s a look at some of the top AI trends from the show:
Everyday Tech, Now Smarter Than Ever
From washers that sense when your clothes need a gentler cycle to virtual concierges that actually understand what you’re asking, AI is stepping up its game. This year’s CES showed us smarter, more intuitive gadgets designed to blend into daily life and make it a little easier.
New Chips, Faster AI
Powering all this new AI tech are faster, more efficient chips. Big names like NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm showed off their latest processors, promising better performance for everything from gaming PCs to lightweight AI-powered laptops. NVIDIA’s new GeForce RTX 50 series, in particular, got a lot of attention for its ability to handle demanding AI tasks.
Agentic AI: Next-Level Automation
A big AI buzzword this year was “agentic AI.” It’s a fancy way of saying AI can now handle entire tasks on its own by linking different AI tools together. NVIDIA showed off its Blueprints system, which businesses can use to automate things like inventory management or fixing equipment without human input.
Robots That Do More Than Just Look Cool
Sure, robots can still be cute, weird, and occasionally creepy, but at CES 2025, they proved they’re also getting genuinely useful. Whether it’s a vacuum that picks up your socks or a lawnmower that knows how to feed your grass, AI-powered robots are learning to do more of the stuff we’d rather skip.
Health Gadgets That Know You Better
This year’s health tech wasn’t just about collecting data; it was about using AI to make sense of it. From smart mirrors that analyze your skin to wearables that offer personalized health advice, CES showed us how AI is becoming your new wellness buddy.
Smarter Energy, Lower Bills
AI-powered home systems are helping us use energy more efficiently, which is good news for both your wallet and the planet. Whether it’s smarter heat pumps or AI systems that manage your energy use in real-time, CES showed how AI can help cut down costs without sacrificing comfort.
Auto Tech Highlights
From concept cars and self-driving trucks to next-gen infotainment and even flying vehicles, auto tech grabbed plenty of attention and headlines at CES this year.
Here’s a look at some of the unveilings generating the most buzz:
Honda 0 Series EVs
Honda
Honda’s 0 Series EVs have graduated from concept to production-ready prototypes, debuting at the show with new tech powered by the Asimo OS—named after its iconic humanoid robot.
The wedge-shaped 0 Saloon and the more traditional 0 SUV are set to begin production in Ohio by 2026, featuring advanced drive-by-wire steering and AI-driven performance systems developed in partnership with Renesas Electronics and Helm.ai.
Equipped with NACS charging ports, these EVs will eventually gain access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Plus, Honda’s Smart Charge system will enable bidirectional charging, allowing owners to reduce home energy costs and even help mitigate blackouts.
With production just a year away, expect more updates soon on pricing, range, and availability.
Hyundai Mobis' Holographic Windshield Display
Hyundai
Hyundai Mobis wowed attendees with its innovative full-windshield holographic display showcased in the Kia EV9.
This tech uses three projectors to transform the entire windshield into an interactive, transparent screen displaying navigation, driving stats, and media—no physical screens required.
Developed in partnership with ZEISS, it employs advanced light diffraction for crisp visuals, even in bright daylight, enhancing both safety and convenience.
Though still in pre-development, Hyundai Mobis is aiming for a 2027 launch.
AFEELA 1 Origin and Signature
Ian Maule via Getty Images
Sony-Honda’s AFEELA 1 EV made waves—not just for its futuristic features and six-figure price tag, but also for its direct-to-consumer sales model.
The move has already drawn sharp criticism from U.S. dealerships and NADA, which promised to fight any attempt to sideline dealers.
While its cutting-edge tech is impressive, the steep cost (starting at $89,900, or $102,900 for the Signature model) stands in stark contrast to more affordable offerings. Whether the AFEELA 1 can carve out its niche in the increasingly competitive EV market remains to be seen.
BMW’s Panoramaic iDrive Infotainment System
BMW
BMW is raising the bar with its Panoramic iDrive set to debut in their upcoming Neue Klasse EV lineup.
The highlight? A wide head-up display (HUD) that stretches across the entire windshield, showing customizable information for both drivers and passengers. There’s also a second, smaller 3D HUD right in front of the driver for key details like navigation and active safety features.
Instead of cluttering the interior with buttons, BMW is going fully digital. A central touchscreen running its new OS X takes over most controls, while a multifunction steering wheel offers some basic functions. Built on Android software, OS X lets users personalize their interface, pin favorite apps, and even upload custom backgrounds.
Over time, the system will learn your preferences—whether it’s suggesting Sport Mode on a twisty road or playing your favorite tunes—and it promises to keep getting smarter through updates.
XPENG Aero HT Land Aircraft Carrier
Xpeng
Flying cars are nothing new at CES, but XPeng’s AeroHT "Land Aircraft Carrier" continues to capture attention with its ambitious design. This modular vehicle pairs a five-seater electric van with a detachable two-seater eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft. Picture this: you're cruising down the road in an electric van, but when traffic turns into a nightmare, you detach a drone-like vehicle from the trunk, unfold it, and fly off toward your destination.
XPeng's AeroHT division announced that it has already secured 3,000 intent orders for the futuristic vehicle. With manufacturing now slated to begin in 2025 and deliveries expected in 2026, XPeng is betting big on turning this tech into a reality. Just don’t expect to see one parked in your neighbor’s driveway anytime soon—it’ll set you back a cool $300,000.
While flying cars may still be years away from becoming commonplace, AeroHT’s progress shows that what once seemed like science fiction is inching closer to real-world adoption. Keep an eye on this space—this could be the start of a new era in personal transportation.
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