At CES 2026, Lenovo CEO Yuanqing Yang delivered an unmistakably forceful message to artificial intelligence skeptics during a post-keynote Q&A session at The Sphere in Las Vegas. Addressing lingering doubts about AI’s rapid expansion into consumer technology, Yuanqing was blunt: “Nobody can avoid it.” His remarks underscored Lenovo’s firm belief that AI is no longer optional or experimental, but an inevitable part of daily life.
CES 2026 Keynote Highlights
Lenovo’s keynote presentation positioned AI at the core of its long-term strategy. The company unveiled Qira, a cross-device personal AI assistant designed to seamlessly operate across Lenovo PCs and Motorola smartphones. Qira is intended to act as a unified digital companion, learning user preferences and enhancing productivity across devices.
Alongside Qira, Lenovo introduced a lineup of AI-powered laptops and smart gadgets, as well as Project Maxwell, an experimental AI wearable. The wearable uses sensors to observe and listen to users in real time, enabling more contextual and proactive assistance. Lenovo executives framed these announcements as part of a broader shift toward ambient AI technology embedded into everyday objects such as smartphones, televisions, washing machines, and even kitchen appliances.
Addressing AI Skeptics
During the Q&A, Mashable asked Yuanqing on concerns from consumers who are uneasy about pervasive AI, particularly in household devices like smart refrigerators or washers. Yuanqing responded
“I firmly believe AI is the future,” he said. “Nobody can escape it. However, AI will not replace you; it will simply enhance your capabilities, empower each individual, which is why we believe its application will enable you to accomplish more and foster creativity. This is a trend that cannot be ignored.”
Lenovo CTO Tolga Kurtoglu echoed the sentiment, adding, “I cannot envision a world without AI,” reinforcing the company’s conviction that AI will fundamentally reshape how people live, work, and play.
Responsible AI Commitment
Both leaders emphasized Lenovo’s commitment to responsible AI development. Qira, they noted, will feature opt-in controls, allowing users to decide how and when AI engages with their data. Kurtoglu stressed compliance with global and local privacy and security regulations, stating, “If you wish to engage and reap the benefits that AI offers, you can opt in… if you prefer not to engage, that is entirely your choice.”
No AI Bubble in Sight
Yuanqing also dismissed fears of an AI market bubble. “We believe AI is not a bubble,” he said. “The demand will be skyrocketing.” Despite surveys from outlets like CNET showing low consumer upgrade rates for AI features only 11% so far Lenovo remains confident that personal AI adoption is only just beginning.
