The CES 2009, World’s largest consumer electronics fair, is all set to kick off from today at Las Vegas.  The fair is an annual tech showcase event with participation from all the major technology players worldwide.  This time it is being arranged from Jan 8 -Jan 11 of 2009.

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This time the spotlight of the show is Digital Imaging, featuring the top companies and latest new products in digital imaging, including a dedicated Digital Imaging Showcase and the Spotlight on Imaging event and conference session. 

Rumors have been floating around that the announcements  at CES might include the Microsoft unveiling a revamped Zune in a bid to knock Apple’s iPod from its top market share in the MP3 player segment.

Another big announcement being expected is the launch of Palm’s new Nova.  Palm is expected to introduce an overhauled operating system in what could be a last-ditch effort to reclaim former glory in a “smart” handheld device realm that it pioneered but lost to competitors.  

Consumer electronics giant LG, has already announced that it will be showing 35 new LCD TV models, among other products.   Its 480 Hz LCD Panel will be a premier showcase at the event.

Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates traditionally kicked off the show with a keynote speech, but with his withdrawal from active work at the company, Chief Executive Steve Ballmer is replacing him this year. Details on the company’s next operating system, Windows 7, are expected in Wednesday night’s speech.