While CES 2022 is still due to be held from January 5th to January 8th, the conference’s most significant partners continue to drop out. As COVID-19 numbers continue to rise, Microsoft is the latest to withdraw from having a presence on the CES show floor.
In a statement the tech giant shared with The Verge, Microsoft confirmed that it will no longer attend the upcoming event in person.
“After reviewing the latest data on the rapidly evolving COVID environment, Microsoft has decided not to participate in-person at CES 2022,” a company spokesperson said in a statement.
Rather than have a presence on the CES 2022 show floor, Microsoft says it will migrate its efforts digitally through the ‘Microsoft Partner Innovation Experience’ and the ‘Automotive Press Kit.’
The company is the latest exhibitor to drop out as the prospect of CES going forward as an in-person show continues to draw concern. Notable companies, including Google, Amazon, Twitter, Intel, Lenovo, Meta and more have all withdrawn from having a physical presence at CES.
Over 2200 companies are confirmed to participate in person at CES 2022 in Las Vegas. Our focus remains on convening the tech industry and giving those who cannot attend in person the ability to experience the magic of CES digitally.
— CES (@CES) December 24, 2021
Earlier this week, CES organizers confirmed that the Las Vegas, Nevada-based show will still go forward as an in-person event. In a statement posted on Twitter, the organizers behind the annual tech show stated that the “focus remains on convening the tech industry and giving those who cannot attend in person the ability to experience the magic of CES digitally.”
CES 2022 will see several COVID-19 health measures in place, including all attendees being required to show proof of full vaccination. Additionally, masks are to be worn while inside the event space and rapid tests will also be provided to attendees.
Via: The Verge
