The best and most useful smart home tech I've seen at CES 2026

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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: CES 2026 live: Biggest news & weirdest gadgets

With CES 2026 in full swing, 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 showcase, along ...