Google is just one of the names that have withdrawn from CES 2022 in Las Vegas amid concerns around the Omicron COVID-19 variant. This is despite the requirement to produce evidence of vaccination and the requirement to wear a mask in the exhibition centre.

When speaking of the decision, a Google spokesperson said:

“After careful consideration we have decided to withhold from having a presence on the show floor of CES 2022. We’ve been closely monitoring the development of the Omicron variant, and have decided that this is the best choice for the health and safety of our teams. We will continue to collaborate closely with both CTA and our partners to identify and support virtual opportunities, and we look forward to sharing the latest Google innovations with you all.”

Despite the withdrawal of a number of other major tech names including Microsoft, Intel and Amazon the show is set to continue. There are also Telcos such as T-Mobile (a US mainstay) and social platforms — Meta (Facebook) and Twitter — that have withdrawn presence at the show. There are already over 40 exhibitors that have withdrawn, with suredly more big names to come.

With the concerns around new variants of COVID-19 do you think should the show proceed, or go virtual?