Unveiling the Bizarre: The Most Outlandish Innovations from CES 2025

CES showcases some of the most fascinating, state-of-the-art, and creative technology available. However, amidst this vast array of technology, a few rather peculiar gadgets always make an appearance. The conference this year was no exception, brimming with an array of quirky devices—some that could potentially gain traction, and others that… perhaps not so much.

Here’s a summary of all the bizarre tech we encountered on the CES exhibition floor and elsewhere.

1. Mirumi, the bashful sloth-inspired robot

Mirumi is an adorable little robot that attaches to your purse or bag strap. It turns its head to explore its surroundings using incorporated sensors. However, akin to a young child, Mirumi is designed to be somewhat timid, often hiding its face when touched or approached by unfamiliar individuals. The creators of Mirumi, Yukai Engineering, intend to introduce the robot through a crowdfunding initiative this year, with an anticipated cost of $70.

2. A phone charger resembling a toaster

No, my colleague Allison Johnson isn’t putting her phone in a toaster—this white device is indeed a charging station created by Swippitt. It’s intended to recharge several external batteries designed for Swippitt’s Link phone case, providing your device that extra boost. When your battery is nearing depletion, simply insert your phone into the hub, and it will automatically exchange the depleted battery for a fully charged one, no cables or wireless charging docks required.

3. This foldable keyboard

I never considered that I might require a keyboard that folds to reveal a trackpad and numeric keypad, and even after witnessing my colleague Sean Hollister utilize it… I still don’t believe I need it. The AutoKeybo employs a built-in camera to detect hand positioning and will transition between configurations as you slightly elevate your hands. It claims to enhance your “efficiency” by preventing the need to shift your hands between your mouse and keyboard, and it comes with a rather hefty price tag of $700.

4. An even more compact LG StanbyME display

LG has returned with an updated version of its portable StanbyME display. Now, you can add a shoulder strap to the 27-inch monitor, allowing for easy transport while on the move (or to hang it in a room). A new folio case even makes it resemble an unusually large tablet. In addition to the new accessories, the StanbyME is also equipped with enhancements over its predecessor, including improved 1440p resolution, extended four-hour battery life, and dual USB-C ports.

5. SwitchBot’s modular, multitasking robot

SwitchBot has developed a modular robot designed to accomplish various types of household tasks. Built on a variant of SwitchBot’s compact robot vacuum, the Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro includes a wheeled “FusionPlatform” that can be outfitted with an array of devices, such as the company’s air purifier, fan, security camera, and additional items, enabling it to navigate your home while executing a multitude of chores. It will have even greater capabilities in the future with the forthcoming robotic arms demonstrated in the video above.

6. An 18-karat gold smart ring

Forget the conventional engagement ring. How about gifting your significant other with an 18-karat gold smart ring? Ultrahuman has created precisely that, with its “artisanal” Rare ring, priced at $1,900 in gold (or $2,200 in platinum). In addition to complete access to all of Ultrahuman’s functionalities and a lifetime membership to its warranty program, this item possesses the same specifications as the significantly less expensive $349 Ultrahuman Ring Air — merely presented in a far more costly package.

7. LG’s air purifier your cat can sit on

The LG AeroCatTower is precisely what it implies: an air cleaner that also functions as a cat tree. Besides providing a warm spot for your feline companion, it filters pet dander and even weighs your cat as well. The AeroCatTower links to the LG ThinQ app, where you can access details about your cat’s weight and monitor how long your pet was asleep.

8. The “world’s first wearable solar panel”

This coat from Anker remains merely a concept at this time, but it exudes authentic Cyberpunk 2077 vibes with its LED light strips and perovskite solar cells encircling the exterior of the garment. It provides a 30W maximum input, along with a USB-C output that can be utilized to charge your smartphone.

9. LG’s indoor gardening side table

Similar to LG’s AeroCatTower, the company’s newest iteration of indoor gardening merges several functionalities into one product. The device resembles a standard side table, yet it incorporates a lamp under which you can cultivate plants. It also automatically waters your plants via its built-in reservoir and includes an integrated speaker. Additionally, LG has developed a taller, lamp-style gardening solution as well.

10. Encapsulated anime characters that converse with you

This is precisely what it appears to be: a pod featuring 3D visualizations of dancing anime characters. However, it doesn’t need to accommodate only anime characters; you can upload any figure to Character Livehouse’s 1200p display, and it will utilize AI to engage with you. The capsule is outfitted with cameras and microphones that recognize sound, enabling the character to sense your presence. Code 27, the enterprise behind Character Livehouse, asserts that the model can encourage you in games and even “gently” rouse you from sleep. It will soon be available on Kickstarter with a pricing range of $400 to $500.