CES 2016 Won't Be Too Exciting For Linux Desktop Enthusiasts

While there will be many Android-powered devices, various appliances powered by Linux from drones to kitchen appliances, and other products internally relying upon Linux and open-source software, don't expect to find much with regard to the Linux desktop and even Steam Machines will seem to be rather low-key.

CES 2016 runs next week from 6 to 9 January in Las Vegas. Some years have been more interesting than others for Linux coverage; there was once Canonical with Ubuntu TV and a few other times it paid off going out there for the week. However, when deciding whether to make the trek out there next week and following up with my various industry contacts, it didn't seem worthwhile -- short of the splendid parties.

Not that I was expecting a big surge of Linux desktop interest this year at the Consumer Electronics Show, even when it comes to Steam Machines / SteamOS there will not be a large presence. There will at least be a plethora of Linux-on-devices, which should barely come as any surprise. There will likely be Ubuntu use in a few product demos, but from everything I've been able to dig up and people I've talked with, there doesn't appear to be any interesting Linux surprises. Not that I was really expecting too much aside from curiosity over Steam Machines / SteamOS level of participation, but it'd be a nice surprise to see like some company tossing their support behind Linux, any new Linux gaming devices, etc.

So while I'm skipping out again from going in person, if there is any interesting Linux news -- or rather, the fun hardware news -- I'll be writing about it next week, including a few NDA products.