Big Picture Big Sound

CES: Consumer Electronics Market Up in 2010

By Rachel Cericola

Today is the first official day of the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. This is where the drooling process begins, where we see what tech items to expect for the year. Aside from a ton of 3D, it seems that there is also a lot of buzz for a very optimistic 2010.  

Today, the Consumer Electronics Association released its semi-annual forecast, which predicts that the industry will be raking in the cash this year -- to the tune of $165 billion. Part of that enthusiasm is due to this year's CES turnout.

"There is light at the end of the tunnel and it is the bright light of innovation," said Gary Shapiro, CEA President and CEO. "We are seeing more innovation at this show than at any show in our history. There are a record number of new exhibitors, more than 330, among the 2,500 companies showcasing the next generation of technology."

Google-NexusOne_1.jpg
Google's Nexus One has generated huge buzz in the smartphone category at CES.
This is awesome news, too. In 2009, the CE industry saw a drop. What industry didn't? However, it's nice to see everyone willing to make a fresh start. The CEA's report says that 2009 saw a 7.8 percent decline in shipment revenues, even though unit volume actually increased 10 percent.

Shapiro says the two hot categories for the year should be smartphones and netbooks. Smartphones should be the king of the CE ring, with $17 billion in sales. Netbooks should do a very decent $14 billion.

"Smartphones and netbooks are primed for strong growth as consumers continue to seek efficient, portable devices," said Steve Koenig, CEA's director of industry analysis. "With more consumers seeking content anywhere, anytime, the demand for products facilitating these experiences will drive purchases going forward."

No 3D? Perish the thought! The hot topic of this year's show should do some pretty decent sales. The CEA is expecting to see more than 4 million 3D sets in homes by the end of the year. Consumers will also keeping adding Blu-ray as well, which is projected to do $1.4 billion in sales. HDTVs will also continue to sell well. However, price drops should cause revenue to slide to $22 billion.

The CES publishes The U.S. Consumer Electronics Sales and Forecast 2005-2010 (January 2010) twice a year, in January and July.

For More Information:

What did you think?

View all articles by Rachel Cericola
Big News
Newsletter Sign-up
 
Connect with Us