IFA 2021 canceled due to 'global health uncertainties'

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People will have to wait at least one more year before attending IFA in person.

Ifa Canceled
Ifa Canceled (Image credit: IFA)

What you need to know

  • IFA 2021 has been canceled due to health concerns.
  • The new variant of COVID-19 is one of the main factors that led to the cancelation.
  • The event was originally planned to run from September 3-7.

IFA is one of the biggest events of the year for consumer electronics. Normally, we can expect announcements and demonstrations from the likes of Samsung, Lenovo, Razer, and more. The organizers of IFA 2021 wanted to hold the event, but due to health concerns around the globe have had to cancel the event. IFA was originally scheduled to run between September 3 to September 7.

The organizers of IFA spoke with public health experts and stakeholders to determine the best course of action for the event. The "rapid emergence of new COVID-19 variants" as well as the uncertainty of vaccination rollouts around the world were key factors in canceling the event. The new variant of COVID-19 in South Asia was also a determining factor.

Since companies, members of the press, and anyone attending events like IFA need to plan and book travel in advance, it's best to give people advanced notice of cancelations.

"Unfortunately, the latest public health developments introduced too much risk into everybody's planning for the event," said Kai Hillebrandt, chairman of the supervisory board of gfu, consumer & home electronics GmbH. Hillebrandt added, "There simply are now too many uncertainties. Therefore, right now it has become near impossible for anyone to responsibly plan their participation in any trade show."

In addition to health concerns causing the safety of travel and events to be uncertain, Messe Berlin, the ground where IFA takes place, has converted parts of its exhibition area into a vaccination center and emergency hospital facility.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.