CES 2020 Prepares for Broader 5G Rollout Across Devices
CES 2020 showcases an evolutionary step for 5G technology as carriers build out networks and manufacturers introduce connectivity to midrange devices. The event serves as a precursor to the larger mobile announcements expected at Mobile World Congress in February.
5G technology takes center stage at CES 2020 as the industry moves from early hype to real-world applications and broader network rollouts. While major smartphone manufacturers largely save their biggest mobile announcements for Mobile World Congress in February, the Las Vegas tech show highlights significant evolutionary steps in 5G hardware and infrastructure.
Smaller tech companies use the CES platform to unveil innovative 5G devices that often feature unique differentiating factors like foldable screens and specialized sensors. TCL previews an affordable sub-$500 5G smartphone and showcases various foldable concepts, proving that the market for flexible displays extends well beyond Samsung's early offerings.
The most notable shift at CES 2020 is the transition of 5G from a premium novelty to a standard feature expected on midrange and even budget smartphones. Beyond mobile phones, the exhibition features new 5G-equipped tablets and laptops like the Lenovo Flex 5G, along with the first wave of promised 5G Internet of Things devices that bring the faster connectivity to entirely new product categories.