The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 has delivered on its reputation for both innovation and the bizarre. While major announcements regarding AI chips and product launches dominated headlines, the Las Vegas convention once again showcased a collection of truly unusual tech. From music played through your teeth to AI companions, here’s a rundown of some of the most striking devices spotted on the showroom floor.
Edible Entertainment: Music You Can Taste
One novelty device, the Lollipop Star, allows users to literally taste their music. For $9, customers can buy lollipops designed to transmit audio through bone conduction while providing a sugar rush. The concept is simple: combine an edible treat with a unique auditory experience.
Brain-Sensing Headphones for Peak Performance
Neurable demonstrated headphones that measure cognitive speed, targeting gamers specifically. The technology tracks reaction times and thought processes, aiming to help users improve focus. Initial tests suggest the device creates a perception of slowed-down visuals alongside faster reflexes, providing a unique cognitive experience.
Adaptable Audio: Headphones That Transform into Speakers
TDM debuted headphones that twist into speakers with a single movement. This hybrid design allows for seamless transition between private listening and shared audio without needing separate devices.
Vibrating Chef’s Knife for Effortless Cutting
Seattle Ultrasonics showcased its C-200 UltraSonic Chef’s Knife, which vibrates during use to reduce cutting resistance. Testers found the vibrations nearly imperceptible but effective, enabling easier slicing, even of delicate foods like tomatoes. The $399 knife could be particularly useful for those with physical limitations.
AI Companion Bots for Social Support
Mind With Heart Robotics displayed its AI-powered panda An’An, designed as a companion for elderly individuals experiencing cognitive decline or children developing social skills. The fuzzy bot offers interactive engagement, providing emotional support and companionship.
The AI “Soulmate” in Physical Form
Lepro unveiled its Ami device: a desktop OLED screen housing an AI companion designed for deeper emotional connection. Unlike typical AI assistants confined to phones or browsers, Ami requires a dedicated space on your desk, demanding a conscious choice to keep it present.
Luxury Tech: The $9,000 Smart Purse
Richard Peuty’s Infinity smart purse integrates an OLED display directly into its leather design. While the base Kickstarter model starts at $800, the Atelier Edition exceeds $9,000. This high-end accessory serves as a statement piece, blending luxury fashion with functional technology.
CES 2026 has once again proven its value as a breeding ground for both groundbreaking advancements and delightfully unnecessary gadgets. The event underscored the industry’s willingness to explore unconventional concepts, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible…and sometimes, what’s sensible.
