AI will be a central focus at the 2026 edition of CEDIA Expo/Commercial Integrator Expo 2026 (CIX). The show is expected to bring together thousands of integrators, manufacturers and industry leaders to explore how AI is transforming smart home and integrated technology environments.

AI will be embedded across the event’s education program, product demonstrations and thought leadership sessions, highlighting its growing role in system design, automation and user experience.

“AI is clearly one of the biggest forces shaping the future of smart homes and integrated technology and it will be a major focus of programming at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2026. Some of the most significant product pivots and breakthroughs in this industry have started on our show floor,” CEDIA Expo group vice president and show director Jason McGraw says.

A key hub for AI discussion in 2026 will be the Smart Stage, where free sessions will examine how AI is shaping product development and service delivery. A new manufacturer leadership panel is also planned, bringing together executives to discuss innovation roadmaps and the future of intelligent automation.

“We want attendees to hear directly from the brands shaping the future. What is their vision? What does the roadmap look like? How are they implementing technologies like AI to create better outcomes for integrators and their customers?” Jason says.

Across the show floor, more than 400 manufacturers are expected to showcase AI-enabled technologies spanning intelligent lighting, automation platforms, voice and natural-language interfaces and smart energy management. Exhibitors including Aqara, Josh.ai and DoorBird will demonstrate solutions designed to deliver more adaptive and intuitive smart home experiences.

In addition to residential technology, AI-driven business tools will also be highlighted, with companies such as D-Tools, Portal.io and Specifi IO showcasing platforms aimed at improving project management, operational efficiency and customer engagement for integrators.

Alongside product discovery and education, the event will continue to serve as a major networking hub for the integration industry, with training sessions, meetups and special events supporting collaboration and new business opportunities.

“Integrators come for three main reasons: To see new products, to learn from the education and thought leadership and to connect with peers across the industry. When those three elements come together, it becomes an incredibly powerful experience,” Jason concludes.