If you want to make a splash and earn media coverage at CES 2026, the time to start is now. January may feel far away, but the most valuable CES opportunities open, and importantly, close, months in advance. The brands that plan early will be the ones that cut through the noise when the world’s biggest consumer technology stage lights up in Las Vegas. 

The Caster team’s decades of CES experience have taught us that every year, the timeline gets tighter: 

The CES Call for Speakers? That critical window closes at the end of August (8/28/25 deadline).  

The coveted CES Innovations Awards? That program is only accepting submissions through the end of this week (8/22/25 deadline).  

While technically speaking there’s still time to submit for these, if you have not even begun thinking about your presence at CES, chances are these milestones will pass you by.     

Why Early Planning Matters 

Attending CES is just the start; making the most of your investment requires a well-timed, well-executed strategy. From securing meaningful media coverage to holding productive meetings and maximizing visibility, the groundwork you lay now will determine your success on-site. 

Partnering with an experienced communications team like Caster helps you: 

• Spot Stand-Out Stories – Identify the news, launches, or partnerships that will rise above the CES chatter. 

• Plan Events & Awards – Build a targeted plan for show activities, networking opportunities, and awards still in play. 

• Maximize Your Booth Impact – Choose the right tactics to stand out on the floor and make your brand memorable. 

• Cover All Media Angles – Balance in-person press meetings with outreach to the journalists who will be covering CES remotely. 

Recently, we outlined our ultimate guide to CES 2026 here which goes into even greater detail.  

CES 2025 Recap & 2026 Outlook 

CES 2025 brought in roughly 141,000 attendees, over 4,500 exhibitors, and 5,000+ members of the media into last Vegas.  

Each of these categories experienced an increase over CES 2024 numbers: 138,000 attendees, 4,300 exhibitors, and 5,000+ registered members of the press.  

CES 2026 is expected to match or even exceed those numbers, creating an unparalleled opportunity for exposure. But with so many brands competing for attention, preparation is your most important advantage. 

Make CES 2026 Your Moment 

January will be here before you know it. Whether you’re refining your messaging, designing product demos, lining up high-value meetings, or planning for media coverage, now is the time to lock in your plan. 

The Caster team is ready to help you stand out — before, during, and after CES. Let’s work together to make CES 2026 your biggest win yet.