At CES 2026, the usual lineup of cutting-edge gadgets is overshadowed by a wave of bizarre and unforgettable innovations that blur the line between tech and whimsy. From AI companions that watch you from your desk to lollipops that play music in your head, the show is full of products that make you pause and wonder, “Why did someone think of this?” One of the most talked-about concepts is Razer’s Project AVA, a 5.5-inch animated holographic desk companion that has evolved from its original role as an esports AI coach. Now, it’s a lifelike, AI-powered anime assistant that can help with gaming, work, and even personal advice. With characters like the stylish Kira and the muscular Zane, the holograms feature expressive faces, eye-tracking, lip-syncing, and lifelike movements. But the real kicker? The device uses a built-in camera to monitor you and your screen in real time. While it’s still a concept, the idea of a digital companion that watches you constantly adds a layer of unease—especially as it promises to analyze your habits and offer feedback. Then there’s An’An, the AI-powered baby panda robot from Mind with Heart Robotics. Designed with emotional intelligence, this cuddly creature responds to touch with sensors across its body and learns your voice, preferences, and routines over time. It’s aimed at helping older adults combat loneliness, offer gentle reminders for medication and daily tasks, and even alert caregivers if something’s off. With its soft, huggable design and deep personalization, An’An feels less like a robot and more like a living companion. For those who care about quiet ice, Govee Life has introduced the Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro, a $499.99 countertop device that uses AI NoiseGuard technology to prevent loud freezing noises. The AI detects when the machine is about to make a racket and automatically defrosts to keep things smooth. It makes 60 pounds of ice a day, with a 3.5-pound capacity, and is set to launch in January at major retailers. In the kitchen, Seattle Ultrasonics unveiled an ultrasonic chef’s knife that vibrates at over 30,000 times per second. The high-frequency vibrations allow it to slice through food with minimal resistance—making it easier to cut vegetables, meat, and bread without applying much pressure. The blade is silent, invisible in motion, and feels completely normal in the hand. Priced at $399, it’s available for pre-order and could be a game-changer for home cooks. And then there’s the musical lollipop from Lollipop Star. Using bone conduction, these edible treats deliver music directly to your inner ear through vibrations in your skull. Choose from Ice Spice (peach flavor), Akon (blueberry), or Armani White (lime), and enjoy a burst of flavor and sound at the same time. It’s a bizarre but undeniably fun idea—turning a simple treat into a personal music experience. CES 2026 proves that innovation isn’t always about practicality. Sometimes, it’s about surprise, delight, and the sheer joy of asking, “Wait, really?”