Will CES 2022 proceed safely amid rising Covid cases?

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CES 2022 Proceeds Amidst Rising Covid-19 Cases with Safety Protocols in Place

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2022 is proceeding in person in Las Vegas, despite a surge in Covid-19 cases. Organizers have implemented safety measures, including mandatory masks and proof of vaccination, for the event which has been shortened by one day. While major companies like Amazon, BMW, and Microsoft have scaled back or canceled their attendance, thousands of smaller exhibitors are expected to participate.
Reduced Scale and Exhibitor Numbers

CES 2022 has been condensed, concluding on Friday after opening on Wednesday, and features approximately 2,200 exhibitors. This represents a significant reduction from the last in-person CES, which hosted over 4,500 exhibitors and an estimated 170,000 attendees in 2020. The decision to proceed with the in-person format acknowledges the investments made by numerous smaller companies to attend.
Enhanced Safety Measures Implemented

Organizers have mandated that all attendees wear masks and provide proof of vaccination. These protocols are in place to mitigate the risks associated with a large indoor gathering. Despite these measures, some experts have advised caution and recommended daily testing due to the inherent risks of indoor events with thousands of participants, even with safety requirements.
Notable Absences and Expert Concerns

Several major technology firms, including T-Mobile, have withdrawn or significantly reduced their presence due to rising Covid-19 case numbers and concerns for attendee safety. While organizers express confidence in their ability to facilitate a productive event with social distancing, public health experts have noted that mass indoor gatherings at this scale still carry risks, even with vaccination and masking policies in effect.
Diverse Technology Showcased

The showfloor is set to feature a range of innovative technologies, including advancements in autonomous vehicles, commercial spaceflight, and digital goods like NFTs. Attendees can also expect to see new developments in work-from-home tools, enhanced display technologies, wearable devices, autonomous machinery, and energy storage solutions, such as a Dutch startup's concept for storing wind farm power using water.

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Will CES 2022 proceed safely amid rising Covid cases?

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