Gadget-lovers and tech fans are in for a busy week as one of the biggest technology exhibitions of the year gets under way.

Virtual reality, the smart home and wearable technology are all expected to make a reappearance at the CES event in Las Vegas which starts on Wednesday.

The annual exhibition showcases the latest developments in the tech world, with drones also expected to be an important topic at this year’s event.

Located primarily in the Las Vegas Convention Centre, CES has grown in size and scope in recent years, edging out into hotels around the Las Vegas Strip. It now occupies more than 2.4 million square feet of exhibition space.

Among the exhibits is the Eureka Park section for start-ups, which is expected to have 500 exhibitors.

In the Sands Expo Centre, the Robotics Marketplace will showcase the latest developments in the sector, along with 3D printing and kids technology, with Baby Tech on display in the Venetian.

There were 170,000 attendees at last year’s event, with more than 3,600 companies – including 375 start-ups – from more than 150 countries represented.

CES has been the place for a number of important announcements in the past, from VHS recorders and HD TVs to the original Xbox.

Benefits

This year, the event is highlighting the difference technology has made to the world, and its benefits, through the Tech Changing the World Campaign.

"CES is not just about entertainment products and services; we're seeing cutting edge technology which helps mankind and betters our world," said Gary Shapiro, president and chief executive of the Consumer Electronics Association, when the programme was announced.

The 2016 CES event runs until January 9th.