Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta drop out of CES 2022 over Omicron concerns

Microsoft has joined a growing list of big tech companies in announcing that it will not participate physically at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show, or CES 2022, in Las Vegas, USA.

Microsoft will continue to participate in CES virtually, the company said in a statement.

Many other companies, including Google, Meta, Twitter, Lenovo, Amazon, and General Motors, have announced that they will not attend CES 2022 in person, with most opting for virtual attendance.

CES 2022, however, will be still be held in person, according to officials. The event is slated for January 5 - 8. Organisers say that have a host of strong safety measures available, including a requirement for vaccination and masks, and wide availability of Covid-19 tests.

"Our mission remains to convene the industry and give those who cannot attend in person the ability to experience the magic of CES digitally," CES said in a statement. "CES 2022 will go forward as important innovation for world health and safety, mobility and solving problems will be exhibited."

CES is an annual showcase of new trends and gadgets in the tech industry, with previous iterations attracting over 1,80,000 people to the event, which is normally held over a set of casinos and convention centres in Las Vegas.