Unexpected gadgets — what surprises were shown at CES 2025

A shy robot and a smartphone toaster — 5 strangest gadgets from CES 2025
Puffy robot Mirumi. Photo: screenshot/YouTube

CES usually surprises with cutting-edge and original developments in technology. However, among all the innovations, you can always come across some rather eccentric devices. This year’s event was no exception — it brought together a whole collection of bizarre inventions that will either really find their place in the market or remain unfulfilled dreams.

This was reported by The Verge.

Mirumi — a shy robot that looks like a sloth

This robot can be attached to a bag or backpack. It can turn its head and look around using built-in sensors. If strangers touch or approach it, the robot can hide its face.

Пушистый застенчивый робот Mirumi
Fluffy shy robot Mirumi. Photo: Engadget

The fluffy robot was named Mirumi because of its shy behavior. It is interested in exploring its surroundings, but can also avoid strangers. The developers plan to launch a crowdfunding campaign this year.

A phone charger that looks like a toaster

The white "box" is a charging station that powers external batteries. These batteries can be inserted into the Swippitt’s Link mobile case to give your smartphone an extra charge.

Зарядная станция для смартфона, похожая на тостер
A smartphone charging station that looks like a toaster. Photo: Allison Johnson/The Verge

When the charge level drops, you just need to insert your phone into the "toaster", and the device will automatically replace the discharged battery with a fully charged one — without wires or contactless charging. At first glance, it’s hard to guess that this is not a kitchen appliance, but a charging station for smartphones. The idea is to save users from the hassle of recharging and constantly connecting cables.

Retractable keyboard

A mechanism that allows the keyboard to "slide away" to reveal the trackpad and numpad. The built-in camera monitors the position of your hands and automatically switches between operating modes (keyboard/trackpad/numpad).

Автоматическая выдвижная клавиатура AutoKeybo
AutoKeybo automatic retractable keyboard. Photo: AutoKeybo

The promised goal is to increase productivity by reducing the movements between the mouse and keyboard.

Although the idea sounds unusual, in reality, not everyone is sure that they need such functionality. Nevertheless, the developers are convinced that AutoKeybo will speed up workflows.

Even more portable display from LG StanbyME

A 27-inch screen that can be carried on the shoulder thanks to an optional strap. A special case "folio" gives the display the look of a giant tablet.

Портативный экран LG StanbyME 2
Portable screen LG StanbyME 2. Photo: The Verge

This improved version of the original StanbyME from LG is designed for even greater mobility, as it can now be transported by virtually throwing it over your shoulder. In addition, the screen has several technical upgrades that make it more attractive than its predecessor.

The modular robot SwitchBot for a variety of household tasks

The Multitasking Household Robot K20 Plus Pro is based on the compact SwitchBot robot vacuum cleaner. It has a wheeled "FusionPlatform" that can be expanded with different units:

  • air purifier;
  • fan;
  • security camera, etc.
Модульный робот-пылесос SwitchBot
Modular robot vacuum cleaner SwitchBot. Photo: SwtichBot

Thanks to its modular approach, the same robot can perform several different tasks, such as cleaning a room, purifying the air, or conducting video surveillance. In the future, SwitchBot plans to add robotic arms to increase the number of possible use cases.

As a reminder, Ukrainians also took part in CES 2025. They were located in two pavilions, where 18 Ukrainian companies demonstrated their developments.

We also wrote that every year CES is full of various robots. In 2025, the attention of visitors was drawn to the fluffy shy robot Mirumi.

devices виставки technologies robots CES 2025