CES 2014: Something for Everyone

It's all happening in Las Vegas January 7-10, but don't expect the buzz that comes from the 47^th annual International CES (Consumers Electronics Show) to stay there.

The CES expects to draw more than 152,000 attendees from at least 150 countries in what is billed as the largest gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technology, and the anticipation is swelling for the latest and greatest technology products that will be unveiled.

Thousands of products will be introduced over 15 product categories by more than 3,200 exhibitors, including more than 140 startups and entrepreneurs hoping to catch their big breaks.

Searching for the latest news about computers, tablets, smart phones, televisions, gaming consoles, appliances, automobiles, and digital cameras? Chances are, you'll find something to your liking.

The buzz surrounding such products as Fitbit and Pebble-wearable fitness tracking devices that exploded in 2013 is already palpable.

Audi, Ford, and Mercedes Benz are expected to showcase self-driving car models they plan to eventually unveil.

Samsung introduced its latest curved technology on its line of Ultra HD TV's, which offer four times the resolution of current HDTV's. Samsung plans to release 55-inch, 65-inch, and 78-inch models later this year.

Events and the show floor for the exhibitors will span three venues-the Las Vegas Convention Center and World Trade Center as well as The Venetian Hotel.

In addition to the wide range of the newest technology that will be on display, some of the best CEO's in the world will be on hand to deliver keynote addresses.

Notable keynote speakers include Brian Krzanich, the CEO of Intel; Kazuo Hirai, the president and CEO of Sony; Marissa Mayer, the CEO of Yahoo, John Chambers, the CEO of Cisco; Dick Costello, the CEO of Twitter; and Carolyn Everson, a vice president of Facebook.

And if leaders in the business world aren't your thing, there will be plenty of figures from the world of sports and entertainment that you have a chance to mingle with.

Former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow will be an ambassador for SOUL Electronics on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at a press conference from 4-5 p.m. and attend a party for the company at TAO at the Venetian at 10 p.m. on January 9.

Monster will feature several prominent names in its booth at various stages during the event, including Shaquille O'Neal, the winner of Season 1 of "The Voice" Javier Colon, Mick Fleetwood, the founder of iconic Rock band Fleetwood Mac, Nick Cannon, host of "America's Got Talent", as well as rapper Meek Mill.

Will.i.am of "Black Eyed Peas" fame is also scheduled to appear on behalf of 3D Systems at a press conference on Wednesday, January 8 for a "strategic announcement" with 3D CEO Avi Reichental.

Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson will sign autographs on Tuesday, January 7 and Wednesday, January 8 at the SMS Audio Booth, and hip-hop mogul and Grammy award winning producer Pharrell Williams will meet fans and sign autographs on Wednesday January 8 at the Liquipel booth.

And if you feel like you've seen enough of the newest that technology has to offer, or had your fill of mingling with celebrities, there's always time to hit the tables and try your luck.

Vegas, baby. Vegas.