CES 2026 Actually Has Some Bangers? - Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast Recap

Podcast: Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast

Published: 2026-01-09

Duration: 2 hr 34 min

Guests: Michael Fisher

Summary

The hosts dive into CES 2026, exploring the latest tech innovations and predictions for the year. Key highlights include Pickle's AR glasses, Lego's new smart bricks, and speculation on upcoming tech releases.

What Happened

Marques Brownlee kicks off the episode by recounting the long-awaited arrival of his Hasselblad X2D Mark II camera, highlighting the challenges of acquiring high-demand tech gear. The hosts then delve into CES 2026, focusing on the ambitious claims of Pickle's AR glasses, which promise a 12-hour battery life and AI integration, although skepticism remains about their standalone capabilities.

Lego's introduction of smart bricks at CES is another focal point, promising interactive play through Bluetooth and NFC technology. However, concerns are raised about their versatility and compatibility with existing Lego sets. Meanwhile, UGreen's AI NAS, offering advanced file organization and semantic search, catches the hosts' attention, though its $1,000 price point without drives is noted.

The episode explores the trend of integrating tech into everyday products, such as the Corsair keyboard with a built-in Stream Deck and the innovative Seattle Ultrasonics' chef's knife with ultrasonic vibrations. Razer's Project Ava, an AI desk companion with a 3D hologram, also piques interest, though past experiences suggest it may not materialize.

Samsung's announcement of the 130-inch micro RGB TV, the Timeless Frame, is met with awe and confusion, as its sheer size and likely high cost spark speculation. The conversation then turns to tech predictions for 2026, including the potential end of the Zenfone line and the future of Google's Assistant.

The hosts discuss the implications of wearable tech like Meta's AR glasses, which boast impressive features but suffer from weight and battery limitations. They also debate the practicality and adoption challenges of such innovations, emphasizing the smartphone's current dominance.

Finally, the episode wraps with predictions for upcoming releases, including the Rivian R2's anticipated popularity and the possibility of new battery technologies from Apple or Samsung. The hosts muse on the enduring allure of tech events like CES, despite the mixed track record of product launches.

Key Insights