CEDIA Expo 2024 and Commercial Integrator Expo (CIX24) are getting underway and, as to be expected, AI is still generating a hefty amount of buzz despite its introduction to the channel being well over a year ago. Well, now the showrunners of CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo are introducing AI to the channel in a way that has yet to be seen: a new matchmaking app for networking at the show.
As most attendees, past and present, are aware of, the ability to network with manufacturers and other professionals is one of the greatest perks of attending a show like CEDIA Expo (next to seeing all the incredible products), and as such, matchmaking apps have become staples of these events, meant to make the process of networking a lot more streamlined given the short time windows these events give.
“Networking with industry peers and connecting with potential prospects are key reasons why many professionals attend trade shows,” said Jason McGraw, CTS, group vice president for Emerald.
“The CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo mobile app is specifically designed to enhance networking opportunities among attendees, exhibitors, and other industry professionals. With advanced AI technology, our cutting-edge app facilitates meaningful connections, helping users maximize their time and opportunities at both events.”
So why not have a machine assistant play matchmaker?
CEDIA Expo and CIX24 Matchmaking App Leverages AI
According to Grip, the maker of the new matchmaking app for both the CEDIA and Commercial Integrator Expos, the interface features an interactive event lobby personalized for each user, with the AI being used to provide match recommendations based on self-described product interests.
Whether seeking new business partnerships, discovering cutting-edge products or engaging with relevant content, Grip states the app tailors its suggestions to ensure attendees and exhibitors connect with the right people and brands.
A few other features of the app include:
- Advanced Search and Filtering: Attendees can search for exhibiting brands and peers using keywords or narrow the results by selecting categories from dropdown lists such as job title, product interest and more.
- Pre-Show Engagement: Attendees and exhibitors can begin connecting now. The app allows attendees and exhibitors to reach out to smart matches, chat and request meetings at exhibitors’ booths, ensuring schedules are packed with valuable connections.
- Comprehensive Event Resources: Stay informed with the latest floor plans, exhibitor lists and show schedules. The app’s search function allows users to explore exhibitors and products by keyword or category, helping find desired solutions.
- Personalized Agenda Management: The app integrates with the show’s registration system, allowing attendees to view and manage their personalized agendas. This includes education sessions, Manufacturer Product Training (MPT) sessions and other key events.
Checking Back in on AI
While AI plays a relatively minor role in the app overall, its inclusion shows how widespread AI has become in just about every bit of technology now. It’s to the point where a lot of the AI optimism has begun to morph into skepticism, with even Wall Street seeing an AI-fueled sell-off earlier this week as realities aren’t quite meeting investor expectations.
Granted, applications such as this are what I feel AI was made for. After all, the algorithms that drove Google search to market dominance, fuel YouTube recommendations, and are what made Google Play Music the best platform for discovering new music until Google unceremoniously shut it down, are just versions of AI that existed before it got a buzzy new name.
Who knows, maybe as you’re walking the show floor, you’ll get a recommendation to visit a booth you otherwise would’ve never even heard of and have it change your life. AI recommendations can be fun like that if you’re willing to go with the flow for bit.
Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo app is available for registered attendees to explore, match and meet on the go. Who knows, maybe you’ll get recommended a first-time exhibitor you never would have visited with otherwise.
CEDIA Expo 2024, which will be co-located with Commercial Integrator Expo 2024, will take place September 4–7, 2024, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, CO. Individuals interested in attending CEDIA Expo can register online.
A version of this story about the CEDIA Expo and CIX24 matchmaking app appeared on our sister publication CE Pro’s site today.
