Table of Contents
At CES 2026, the mobile technology landscape took a significant leap forward, characterized by the emergence of multi-panel displays and a renewed commitment to hardware sustainability. From Samsung’s dual-hinge powerhouse to the resurrection of heritage wearable brands, this year’s exhibition emphasized device versatility and the bridging of the gap between smartphones and tablets.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold: A dual-hinge device featuring a 10-inch inner display, effectively merging the smartphone and tablet form factors.
- Motorola Razr Fold: The company’s first book-style foldable, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and supporting stylus input.
- Return of Pebble: The classic smartwatch brand has been resurrected with new hardware focused on battery life and sunlight visibility.
- Sustainability Concepts: Cambridge Consultants debuted "Oro," a fully repairable watch concept designed to challenge industry standards on e-waste.
The Evolution of Foldable Displays
While foldable technology has been a staple of CES for several years, 2026 marked the shift from standard bi-fold devices to more complex, high-utility form factors. The show’s standout mobile device, the Samsung Galaxy Z Trifold, introduces a dual-hinge mechanism that allows the device to fold twice. While already available in select international markets, Samsung confirmed the device is coming to the U.S. soon.
The Trifold features a standard 6.5-inch cover screen, but expands to a massive 10-inch internal display when fully opened. This three-panel real estate allows the device to function as a legitimate tablet for media consumption and multitasking without the compromises often associated with smaller foldables.
Meanwhile, Motorola expanded its portfolio beyond flip-style phones with the Motorola Razr Fold. This book-style foldable serves as a direct competitor to offerings from Google and Samsung. It is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset and features a triple 50-megapixel rear camera array. Notably, the device supports stylus input on its internal screen, with a pressure sensitivity of over 4,000 levels, positioning it as a productivity-focused device.
A Renaissance for Wearables
CES 2026 also served as a launchpad for nostalgic yet modernized wearable technology. The original creators of Pebble have reclaimed the rights to the brand, launching a new line of smartwatches including the "Square Time 2" and "Round 2." These devices retain the brand’s signature memory-in-pixel displays, which offer superior visibility in direct sunlight and exceptional battery life compared to OLED alternatives.
In the smart ring sector, the Index01 introduced a unique approach to battery management. Designed specifically for audio recording and memory aid, the ring operates without a rechargeable battery, lasting two to three years on a single lifecycle. To mitigate e-waste concerns, the company has implemented a trade-in program for device replacement.
Perhaps the most forward-thinking development in wearables remained in the concept stage. Cambridge Consultants unveiled the Oro, a fully repairable smartwatch concept. Built by re-engineering a Garmin Fenix 7, the device allows users to access the battery compartment and internal components for repairs without compromising the watch's waterproofing.
"Oro is sort of challenging the industry and saying, 'Hey, we can do better. We can do more.' The idea was to prove it could be done on a modern watch."
Mobile Gaming and Accessories
The mobile gaming accessory market continues to mature, with Oh Snap introducing the Mcon controller. Priced at $150, this Bluetooth device utilizes MagSafe to snap onto iPhones and Android devices, featuring a sliding mechanism reminiscent of legacy "Sidekick" phones. The system includes a $70 docking accessory that allows users to mirror their phone screen to a television, effectively turning a smartphone into a portable console.
As these devices move from the show floor to the consumer market, the focus for the coming year will likely center on software optimization for tri-fold screens and the consumer reception of repairable wearable designs.
