CES 2026 is officially underway in Las Vegas. Here's what you need to know from Day 1:
1. Samsung Unveils 130-Inch Micro RGB TV (Yes, Really)
What happened: Samsung debuted the world's first 130-inch Micro RGB TV at CES - winner of the CES Innovation Awards 2026 Best of Innovation. Features hands-free voice control and what they're calling "Vision AI."
Why it matters: This isn't just a bigger TV. The Micro RGB technology delivers next-level color accuracy, and the AI integration lets you control everything with voice - search recipes, check sports predictions, play music.
Our take: Cool tech, but who's buying a 130-inch TV? Still, the Vision AI features will likely trickle down to normal-sized TVs you can actually fit in your living room.
2. Intel's 18A Chips Finally Ship - Made in America
What happened: Intel launched Core Ultra Series 3 processors - the first consumer chips built on their 18A process, manufactured entirely in the United States. Pre-orders start today, systems ship Jan 27.
Why it matters: This is Intel's comeback story. After years of losing ground to AMD and Apple Silicon, they're betting on AI-powered laptops and domestic manufacturing. Over 200 PC designs will use these chips.
Our take: The specs look competitive, especially for AI workloads. The "Made in USA" angle matters more for policy than consumers, but the performance claims are solid if they hold up.
3. Samsung's "AI Companions" Vision - Your TV, Fridge, Everything Talks Now
What happened: Samsung's CES exhibit focused on "AI Companions for Everyday Life" - basically making every device in your home voice-activated and context-aware. Think AI in your mirror, speakers designed by French artists, and transparent Micro LED displays.
Why it matters: Samsung is going all-in on ambient AI. Not just smart devices, but devices that understand context and proactively help. This is their vision for the smart home in 2026.
Our take: We've heard "smart home" promises for a decade. The difference now is the AI is actually good enough to be useful instead of frustrating. Still skeptical, but willing to be proven wrong.
4. ChatGPT Leaving WhatsApp on January 15
What happened: Due to WhatsApp policy changes, ChatGPT will no longer be available on WhatsApp after January 15, 2026. Users need to migrate to the ChatGPT app to keep their conversation history.
Why it matters: Millions of people use ChatGPT through WhatsApp, especially internationally. This is a major disruption, and OpenAI is scrambling to get people to download their actual app.
Our take: This feels like a power play by Meta/WhatsApp. They probably don't want OpenAI operating inside their platform when they're building competing AI features. Users lose convenience.
5. AI Spending Could Trigger Inflation Spike, Investors Warn
What happened: Analysis shows hyperscalers (Microsoft, Meta, Google, Amazon) are spending at historic levels on AI infrastructure. Deutsche Bank estimates AI data center spending could hit $4 trillion by 2030.
Why it matters: This level of spending on chips, energy, and infrastructure is driving up costs across the board. Investors are worried it could reignite inflation and force central banks to raise interest rates again.
Our take: The AI boom has real economic consequences beyond tech. If inflation comes back because of AI spending, expect a market correction. Watch the Fed's response closely.
📊 QUICK STATS
- 130 inches - Size of Samsung's new mega TV
- $4 trillion- Projected AI data center spending by 2030
- 200+- PC designs using Intel's new chips
- Jan 15- ChatGPT's last day on WhatsApp
REST OF THE WEEK AT CES
- AMD's response to Nvidia (tomorrow)
- Google's hardware announcements (expected Tuesday)
- Auto tech reveals (Wednesday)
- More ridiculous TV sizes, probably
Which story do you want more details on? Let us know in the comments and we'll dig deeper tomorrow. 👇
— The AI Pulse Team
P.S. CES always has wild tech that never ships. We'll separate the real products from the vaporware as the week goes on.