EdTech and AI startup Firsthabit has achieved a major milestone after receiving two CES 2026 Innovation Awards for its pioneering Visual Large Language Model (VLLM), known as CHALK AI. The recognition, announced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), cements the company’s position at the forefront of artificial intelligence and educational technology innovation.
Revolutionizing Learning Through Vision and Language
CHALK AI was honored for its integration of visual understanding with natural language processing, creating a powerful interactive learning experience. The model enables students and teachers to engage with AI not only through text and speech, but also via diagrams, handwriting, and visual cues — bridging the gap between traditional classroom tools and advanced digital learning systems.
According to Taiwan News, CHALK AI impressed CES judges with its ability to analyze visual input in real time, personalize learning paths, and adapt seamlessly across different educational settings. The technology is already being tested in schools and online learning platforms across Asia and North America.
Human-AI Collaboration for the Future of Education
“Education is about connection — visual, verbal, and emotional,” said Firsthabit CEO Lin Wei-Chen. “CHALK AI represents the next step in human-AI collaboration for learning, where understanding goes beyond words.”
The system’s multimodal approach allows it to interpret visual materials like handwritten notes, geometry diagrams, or lab experiments, providing instant explanations and personalized assistance. Educators can use CHALK AI to enhance lesson delivery, assess visual assignments, and support diverse learning styles more effectively than ever before.
Recognition for Leadership in AI-Driven Education
The dual CES 2026 Innovation Awards highlight Firsthabit’s role as a global leader in AI-powered education. By merging deep learning with intuitive human interaction, the company aims to redefine how technology supports teachers and students in the digital age.
Firsthabit continues to expand partnerships with educational institutions, governments, and e-learning platforms focused on modernizing classroom engagement and improving accessibility through intelligent, adaptive systems.
Empowering the Next Generation of Learners
As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, Firsthabit’s CHALK AI stands out for its focus on empathy, interactivity, and the human element of learning. The recognition from CES 2026 underscores how AI can be used not only to automate, but to enhance creativity, understanding, and connection in education.
