About 15,000 people have registered to attend the global tech trade show CES in person in the last 10 days, the organizer said on Friday, which could be a good sign for in-person events despite global fears triggered by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.
More than 1,900 companies have pledged to attend the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January, about 50% from pre-pandemic levels.
The Omicron variant was first discovered in South Africa and Hong Kong in November, sparking global concern and a new spate of travel restrictions, reducing the likelihood that the growing momentum for travel would continue.
Electronics giants such as Sony Electronics and industry executives like General Motors Co’s CEO Mary Barra plan to travel to Las Vegas for the event, although some major technology companies such as Nvidia Corp currently have a largely virtual presence.
All participants must present proof of full COVID-19 vaccination in order to be admitted to the show, which will take place from January 5 to 8.