CNET Group Set to Reveal 23 'Best of CES™ 2026' Awards at Exclusive Event
CNET Group, renowned for its suite of technology publications including CNET, PCMag, Mashable, ZDNET, and Lifehacker, will unveil the 23 'Best of CES™ 2026' awards on January 7, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This year marks a significant expansion as CNET Group partners with the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) to introduce eleven new award categories, solidifying its position as a leading authority in technology storytelling and analysis.
Expanded Awards Program Highlights
Entering its second year as the official partner of the CTA, CNET Group will recognize outstanding innovations at CES 2026. The introduction of eleven new categories such as Best Parent Tech, Best Kitchen Tech, and Best Age Tech emphasizes the evolving role of technology across various sectors.
The awards ceremony will occur on the CTA Stage at LVCC Central Hall Grand Lobby, beginning at 4 p.m. PST. CNET Editor at Large Bridget Carey and PCMag Mobile Editor Iyaz Akhtar will co-host the event.
- Date: January 7, 2026
- Time: 4 p.m. PST
- Location: CTA Stage, LVCC Central Hall Grand Lobby
On-the-Ground Coverage from CES 2026
CNET Group’s journalists will deliver comprehensive coverage from CES 2026, reaching an audience of over 71 million monthly visitors and a collective 65 million social media followers. Their unbiased and insightful reporting will be showcased across various platforms, including video content produced by their brands, which have recently achieved over 1 billion collective monthly views.
In addition to live coverage, CNET Group will offer expert-led Show Floor Tours and a series of panels featuring top executives from leading technology companies, addressing essential trends shaping the tech landscape for 2026.
Executive Insights and Expert Panels
“The journalists and creators at CNET Group brands work in labs across the country to test and review the tech you care about, so we know an exciting new product when we see it,” stated Lindsey Turrentine, Executive Vice President of Content at CNET Group. “This year, we’re thrilled to partner with friends at IGN and Everyday Health to add their expertise to the mix, awarding the very best of CES with the highest show honors.”
After-Hours Experience: The Lab by CNET Group
The Lab, an exclusive after-hours event sponsored by H&R Block and Acer, will provide attendees with a unique chance to immerse themselves in cutting-edge technology. Taking place at 8 p.m. PT at Zouk on the Las Vegas Strip, The Lab promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with creative installations and engaging experiences.
Highlights include:
- Interactive installations like the hyperlapse videobooth experience by H&R Block.
- AI-powered character generator by Acer, allowing attendees to create custom "Ace" cards.
- Live music and immersive brand activations designed to reflect the spirit of innovation.
About CNET Group
CNET Group is a collective comprising top-tier technology publishers, including CNET, Mashable, PCMag, ZDNET, ExtremeTech, Spiceworks, and Lifehacker. This diverse group of brands shares a unified vision: technology is integral to modern life. The group's mission is to empower readers to leverage technology for personal development while navigating the myriad products and services available today.
CNET Group operates under Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD), a leading digital media and internet company that specializes in technology, shopping, gaming, health, cybersecurity, and marketing solutions.