CE Pro Podcast #169: What the Team is Cooking Up for CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026
Episode #
Summary
In a recent episode of the CE Pro Podcast, Emerald’s Jason McGraw joined CE Pro Executive Editor Zachary Comeau and Commercial Integrator’s Dan Ferrisi to preview CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026, returning to Denver in early September. The discussion focused on how the event continues to evolve alongside the custom integration market while maintaining its role as the channel’s flagship gathering.
McGraw described the show as the industry’s “Super Bowl,” bringing together integrators, manufacturers, distributors and designers to explore new technologies, attend education sessions and build business relationships. While historically centered on residential AV and home theater, the event increasingly reflects the broader scope of modern integration work.
Fast-growing categories expected to feature prominently include lighting, security, sensors and energy management, with artificial intelligence emerging as a major theme across products and programming. Manufacturers are integrating AI into systems designed to automatically adapt lighting, climate and entertainment experiences based on user behavior and environmental conditions.
New interactive elements are also planned, including a Skills Challenge that will allow integrators to compete in timed installation tasks such as terminating cable, mounting displays and configuring equipment. The initiative aims to highlight technical expertise while creating hands-on learning opportunities.
Networking remains a core pillar of the show, with programs like the Women in Consumer Technology luncheon and the Day of Discovery continuing to connect integrators with architects, builders and designers earlier in the project lifecycle.
McGraw also noted that while Denver will host the 2026 event, CEDIA Expo plans to begin rotating host cities starting in 2027 to reflect industry feedback and broaden the show’s geographic reach.
Featuring:
Summary
In a recent episode of the CE Pro Podcast, Emerald’s Jason McGraw joined CE Pro Executive Editor Zachary Comeau and Commercial Integrator’s Dan Ferrisi to preview CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026, returning to Denver in early September. The discussion focused on how the event continues to evolve alongside the custom integration market while maintaining its role as the channel’s flagship gathering.
McGraw described the show as the industry’s “Super Bowl,” bringing together integrators, manufacturers, distributors and designers to explore new technologies, attend education sessions and build business relationships. While historically centered on residential AV and home theater, the event increasingly reflects the broader scope of modern integration work.
Fast-growing categories expected to feature prominently include lighting, security, sensors and energy management, with artificial intelligence emerging as a major theme across products and programming. Manufacturers are integrating AI into systems designed to automatically adapt lighting, climate and entertainment experiences based on user behavior and environmental conditions.
New interactive elements are also planned, including a Skills Challenge that will allow integrators to compete in timed installation tasks such as terminating cable, mounting displays and configuring equipment. The initiative aims to highlight technical expertise while creating hands-on learning opportunities.
Networking remains a core pillar of the show, with programs like the Women in Consumer Technology luncheon and the Day of Discovery continuing to connect integrators with architects, builders and designers earlier in the project lifecycle.
McGraw also noted that while Denver will host the 2026 event, CEDIA Expo plans to begin rotating host cities starting in 2027 to reflect industry feedback and broaden the show’s geographic reach.
