While CES 2026 is full of tech giants unveiling their latest innovations, the real excitement comes from discovering unexpected and quirky gadgets that make you ask, “Who thought of this?” We are here to spotlight the wildest products we have found so far at CES 2026, from an AI-powered panda that responds to your touch to a holographic anime assistant and plenty more weirdness that makes you do a double-take.
One standout is an AI anime companion that watches you from your desk. Originally introduced last year as an esports AI coach, this concept has evolved into a 5.5-inch animated holographic desk companion. It can assist with gaming strategies, productivity, daily organization, and even personal advice, acting as both a gaming ally and an everyday assistant. Users can choose from different characters, such as the anime girl Kira or the muscular Zane. These digital avatars feature lifelike movements, eye-tracking, expressive faces, and lip-syncing for realistic interactions. What really stands out, however, is the constant monitoring, as the device watches you and your screen using a built-in camera. It is a bit unsettling, but since it is still just a concept, there is no guarantee it will ever become a real product.
Another intriguing gadget is a cuddly AI baby panda robot designed for older adults. This panda bot has high-tech sensors all over its body so it reacts naturally when you touch it. Its emotional AI remembers your voice, how you interact, and what you like, so the longer you spend time with it, the more personalized it becomes. It provides around-the-clock emotional support to combat loneliness. Additionally, for older adults who might be struggling with memory, it helps keep them engaged, reminds them about daily tasks, and keeps caregivers informed about their well-being.
There is also a $500 ice cube maker that uses AI to reduce noise. This countertop smart ice maker uses patented AI technology designed to cut down on the annoying racket usually associated with nugget ice machines. The AI detects when the machine is about to freeze up and make noise, so it automatically defrosts before things get loud. It churns out fresh ice in just six minutes and can make up to 60 pounds in a day, with a bucket that holds 3.5 pounds of ice at a time.
An ultrasonic chef’s knife that vibrates when slicing and dicing was also on display. Unlike traditional knives, this one features a blade that vibrates at over 30,000 times per second, allowing it to move through food with ease. This vibration technology means the knife acts much sharper than its physical edge, making tasks like slicing vegetables, meats, or bread much easier. According to the company, the vibrations are so subtle that you cannot see the blade move, hear it, or feel anything in the handle. The knife is priced at $399.
Finally, there is a musical lollipop that plays music in your head. This product delivers music through bone conduction technology while in your mouth, sending vibrations through your skull bones directly to your inner ear. The lollipops also provide a burst of fruity flavor. You can choose from three artists, with flavors paired to each: Ice Spice in peach, Akon in blueberry, and Armani White in lime.