The 13 most useful smart home devices I've seen at CES 2026 (and would buy if I could)

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• CES 2026 showcases smarter, more autonomous home tech.
• AI-driven features are becoming standard across home devices.
• Battery-free power and quieter operation were notable features.

CES makes this smart home reviewer happy each year. There are numerous amazing, innovative, and compelling smart home devices that debut at the show, making it challenging to keep track of them all. As I comb through press releases and walk the halls, demoing the different devices, I start narrowing down a list of the most attractive ones in my mind.

Also: Best of CES 2026 Awards: Official Winners List (CNET)

With CES 2026 coming to a close, I thought it's as good a time as any to share this list. Below, you'll find my selections for the coolest, most eye-catching, yet useful devices featured at the ...