CES 2026 and the move toward wearable robots you don’t wear all day.
Updated
January 13, 2026 10:56 AM
The π6 exoskeleton from VIGX. PHOTO: VIGX
CES 2026 highlighted how robotics is taking many different forms. VIGX, a wearable robotics company, used the event to introduce the π6, a portable exoskeleton robot designed to be carried and worn only when needed. Unveiled in Las Vegas, the device reflects a broader shift at CES toward robotics that move with people rather than staying fixed in industrial or clinical settings.
Exoskeletons have existed for years, most commonly in controlled environments such as factories, rehabilitation facilities and specialised research settings. In these contexts, they have tended to be large, fixed systems intended for long sessions of supervised use rather than something a person could deploy on their own.
Against that backdrop, the π6 explores a more personal and flexible approach to assistance. Instead of treating an exoskeleton as permanent equipment, it is designed to be something users carry with them and wear only when a task or situation calls for extra support.
The π6 weighs 1.9 kilograms and folds down to a size that fits into a bag. When worn, it sits around the waist and legs, providing mechanical assistance during activities such as walking, climbing or extended movement. Rather than altering how people move, the system adds controlled rotational force at key joints to reduce physical strain over time.
According to the company, the device delivers up to 800 watts of peak power and 16 Nm of rotational force. In practical terms, this means the system is designed to help users sustain effort for longer periods, especially during physically demanding activities_ by easing the body's load rather than pushing it beyond normal limits.
The π6 is designed to support users weighing between 45 kilograms and 120 kilograms and is intended for intermittent use. This reinforces its role as a wearable companion — something taken out when needed and set aside when not — rather than a device meant to be worn continuously.
Another aspect of the system is how it responds to different environments. Using onboard sensors and processing, the exoskeleton can detect changes such as slopes or uneven ground and adjust the level of assistance accordingly. This reduces the need for manual adjustments and helps maintain a consistent walking experience across varied terrain, with software fine-tuning how assistance is applied rather than directing movement itself.
The hardware design follows a similar logic. The power belt contains a detachable battery, allowing users to remove or swap it without handling the entire system. This keeps the wearable components lighter and makes the exoskeleton easier to transport. The battery can also be used as a general power source for small electronic devices, adding a layer of practicality beyond the exoskeleton’s core function.
VIGX frames its work around accessibility rather than industrial automation. “To empower ordinary people,” said founder Bob Yu, explaining why the company chose to focus on exoskeleton robotics. “VIGX is dedicated to expanding the physical limits of humans, enabling deeper outdoor adventures, making running and cycling easier and more enjoyable and allowing people to sustain their outdoor pursuits regardless of age.”
Placed within the wider context of CES, the π6 sits alongside a growing number of portable robots and wearable systems that prioritise convenience, mobility and personal use. By reducing the physical and practical barriers to wearing an exoskeleton, VIGX is testing whether assistive robotics can move beyond niche environments and into everyday life. If that experiment succeeds, wearable robots may become less about dramatic augmentation and more about quiet support — present when needed and easy to put away when not.
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"Discover how emerging sustainability trends in digital marketing are reshaping the way small businesses connect with eco-conscious consumers."
Updated
January 8, 2026 6:35 PM
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Protestor holding a sign "NO BUSINESS ON A DEAD PLANET" during a march. PHOTO: UNSPLASH
Sustainability has become more than just a buzzword—it’s a movement that’s reshaping business practices across industries. For small businesses, aligning with sustainable values isn’t just about doing the right thing; it’s about staying competitive in a world where consumers increasingly prioritize eco-conscious brands.
In the digital age, sustainable marketing is evolving rapidly, offering businesses new ways to reduce their environmental impact while engaging with customers who care deeply about the planet. Let’s take a closer look at the top trends driving sustainable marketing today and their implications for small businesses.
Most people don’t realize that online advertising has an environmental cost. Every time an ad is displayed, clicked on, or streamed as a video, it consumes energy. This energy powers the servers, data centers, and networks that host and deliver these ads. The problem is that much of this energy still comes from non-renewable sources like coal and natural gas, which contribute to carbon emissions.
For small businesses, this could mean optimizing ad campaigns to reduce unnecessary data usage or using platforms that offset their carbon emissions. Additionally, adopting lighter website designs and faster-loading ads can not only reduce energy consumption but also improve user experience—leading to better engagement and conversion rates.
Small businesses can stand out by making their digital campaigns both efficient and eco-friendly. Highlighting these efforts in marketing messages can appeal to sustainability-minded customers while showcasing innovation.
Sustainable packaging is no longer optional—it’s an expectation. But for small businesses, it’s not just about switching to biodegradable materials. It’s about effectively communicating those efforts to customers through digital channels.
Brands are using their websites, social media, and email marketing to share the stories behind their packaging choices. Whether it’s sourcing recycled materials or partnering with eco-friendly suppliers, transparency is key. Educational content, such as videos or infographics, can help customers understand the impact of their purchases and feel good about supporting a brand.
By using digital platforms to tell the story of their sustainability efforts, small businesses can create deeper emotional connections with customers. Sharing behind-the-scenes processes or celebrating packaging milestones can boost loyalty and differentiate a brand from competitors.
Influencer marketing has become a powerful tool for brands, and the rise of eco-conscious influencers is creating new opportunities for businesses that prioritize sustainability. These influencers focus on topics like waste reduction, ethical consumption, and eco-friendly lifestyles, making them an ideal partner for sustainable brands.
Collaborating with such influencers allows small businesses to reach niche audiences that are already committed to sustainable living. These partnerships feel more authentic compared to traditional ads, as followers trust influencers to recommend products that align with their values.
Even small businesses with limited budgets can benefit from micro-influencers —individuals with smaller but highly engaged audiences. Partnering with eco-conscious influencers can amplify a business’s sustainability message and create a ripple effect of awareness.
Consumers today are more skeptical of vague claims like "green" or "eco-friendly." They want specifics. Brands that embrace transparency by sharing measurable data about their sustainability efforts are earning trust and loyalty.
For example, brands that disclose the carbon footprint of their products or provide detailed information about their supply chains stand out in an age of greenwashing (misleading sustainability claims). This trend is particularly relevant for small businesses, as customers often expect smaller, local brands to be more ethical and transparent.
Being upfront about sustainability efforts—even if they’re still a work in progress—can build credibility. Sharing challenges, milestones, and small wins through social media or email newsletters makes the brand relatable and trustworthy.
The circular economy—a model in which products are reused, repaired, or recycled instead of discarded—is gaining momentum. Small businesses are finding creative ways to incorporate this principle into their operations and marketing.
For example, some businesses encourage customers to return used products in exchange for discounts or loyalty points. Others upcycle returned goods into new products and share this process with customers through digital platforms.
By participating in the circular economy, small businesses can differentiate themselves while building a loyal customer base. Promoting these initiatives online—whether through videos, blogs, or customer testimonials—can amplify their impact and attract eco-conscious buyers.
Sustainable marketing is more than a trend—it’s becoming a necessity for businesses of all sizes. For small businesses, it represents both an opportunity to stand out in a competitive market and a chance to make a meaningful impact on the planet.
Emerging trends like green digital advertising, circular economy initiatives, and transparency are reshaping how brands connect with their audiences. By embracing these practices, small businesses can attract eco-conscious consumers, build loyalty, and foster trust—all while reducing their environmental footprint.
The future of marketing belongs to those who see sustainability not as an add-on, but as the foundation of their growth. For small businesses ready to take on this challenge, the rewards go beyond profits—they include making a lasting, positive impact on the planet and the people who inhabit it.