CES 2026: Canon's Volumetric Capture, 8K Action Cameras, and the Future of Video Recording
CES 2026 (January 6-9, Las Vegas) delivered some of the most forward-looking video capture innovations we’ve seen at the show. From portable volumetric capture to ultra-compact 8K action cameras, this year’s announcements paint a picture of where video recording technology is heading.
Canon’s Portable Volumetric Capture System
The most eye-catching announcement came from Canon, which showcased a prototype of a portable volumetric and motion capture system. Unlike traditional volumetric capture setups that require large studio installations with dozens of cameras, Canon’s system uses compact, transportable equipment to capture high-quality 3D data.
The system captures both volumetric data and motion capture data simultaneously, with anticipated applications in:
- Corporate marketing and brand experiences
- Sports analytics and performance training
- Entertainment and virtual production
- Medical and rehabilitation movement analysis
This technology represents a significant democratization of volumetric capture, which has previously been limited to major studios and research facilities.
Canon SPAD Sensor for Low-Light Capture
Canon also presented its proprietary SPAD (Single Photon Avalanche Diode) sensor technology. Unlike traditional CMOS sensors, the SPAD sensor digitally counts individual light particles (photons), enabling extraordinary low-light and high-speed imaging capabilities.
This sensor technology could eventually find its way into capture devices, enabling recording in conditions where current technology fails — extremely dark environments, ultra-high-speed events, and scientific applications.
8K in an Action Camera: Leaptic
Newcomer Leaptic made a splash by announcing a tiny action camera that shoots 8K video and weighs just 35 grams. As DPReview reported, this represents a remarkable achievement in miniaturization — packing 8K recording capability into one of the smallest camera bodies ever produced.
This development is significant for the broader capture market because it demonstrates that 8K recording no longer requires large, expensive equipment. As the technology trickles down, we can expect to see 8K capabilities in more affordable and compact devices.
Professional Storage Solutions
OWC announced the ThunderBlade X12 RAID SSD with up to 192TB capacity, addressing the storage demands of 8K and high-bitrate video workflows. As capture resolutions and frame rates continue to climb, storage solutions like these become essential infrastructure for professional video workflows.
AI-Powered Camera Features
Several announcements integrated AI with camera and recording technology:
- Ring announced Fire Watch, a feature that uses AI to analyze video from Ring cameras for visual signs of smoke or fire, demonstrating how AI is being embedded into recording hardware for automated analysis.
- Multiple manufacturers showed cameras with improved AI scene recognition, auto-framing, and intelligent recording features.
Trends from CES 2026
Several overarching trends emerged from the show:
1. Capture Goes 3D
Volumetric and spatial capture are moving from laboratory curiosities to practical tools, driven by demand from VR/AR applications and Apple Vision Pro content creation.
2. 8K Gets Compact
8K recording is no longer limited to large professional cameras. Compact action cameras and smartphones are bringing 8K to everyday users.
3. AI Becomes Standard
AI-powered features — from scene detection to automated editing — are becoming standard expectations rather than premium additions.
4. Storage Catches Up
Massive-capacity, high-speed storage solutions are keeping pace with the data demands of higher-resolution capture.
What This Means for Content Creators
The technology shown at CES 2026 will filter into mainstream products over the next 12-24 months. Content creators can expect:
- More affordable 8K recording options
- AI-powered editing features built into recording hardware
- Spatial/3D capture capabilities becoming accessible
- Better storage solutions at lower price points
The video capture industry continues to innovate at a remarkable pace, and CES 2026 confirms that the best is yet to come.
Sources: