20 Weirdest Gadgets You’ll Actually Want to Try

Introduction: Embracing the Unconventional

In the era of rapid innovation, technology no longer only solves problems—it entertains, surprises, and sometimes downright confuses us. As gadgets get smarter, designers are taking bolder, more playful risks that blur the line between functionality and novelty. Some of these devices look like they belong in science fiction, while others are shockingly practical beneath their bizarre appearances. This article explores 20 of the weirdest, most inventive gadgets on the market in 2025—each with just enough intrigue to make you want to try it.

1. Kirin Electric Salt Spoon – Taste Without Sodium

Japan has introduced one of the most delightfully strange food gadgets ever: the Kirin Electric Salt Spoon. This spoon sends low-level electrical stimulation to your tongue to enhance salty and umami flavors—without adding actual sodium. Ideal for people on a low-sodium diet, this device tricks your taste buds into experiencing depth of flavor without harming your health.

Developed by Meiji University researchers and supported by beverage giant Kirin, the spoon represents the future of flavor manipulation. Adjustable intensities let users control the impact, and early user trials suggest a 1.5 times increase in perceived saltiness. While it looks like a piece of futuristic cutlery, it could transform how millions enjoy food.

2. Samsung Ballie – Your Rolling Robot Companion

Ballie is a tennis-ball-sized robot from Samsung that roams your house like a curious pet. Equipped with AI, sensors, and even a built-in projector, Ballie follows you, learns your routines, and helps with daily tasks—like dimming lights, starting the vacuum, or displaying a recipe on the kitchen wall.

What sets Ballie apart is its personality. It chirps, rolls energetically, and even reacts to pets and kids, making it feel more like a robotic friend than a home assistant. It’s a glimpse into a Jetsons-like future, and people are increasingly embracing tech that’s both useful and endearing.

3. Anker Solix Solar Cape – Wear the Sun

Part fashion statement, part mobile power solution, the Anker Solix Solar Cape is a lightweight, hooded garment with built-in flexible solar panels. Originally launched at CES 2025, the cape is designed to power small devices—phones, GPS trackers, smartwatches—while you’re on the go.

It’s particularly useful for hikers, travelers, and music festival goers who need a stylish solution for off-grid charging. It even glows in the dark, adding flair to late-night walks or outdoor adventures. While it may raise a few eyebrows, its functionality makes it a must-try for eco-conscious tech lovers.

4. Mi-Mo Robotic Table – A Coffee Table That Follows You

Tired of carrying your drink across the room? Enter Mi-Mo, the world’s first intelligent coffee table that follows you around. Created by a team of roboticists and furniture designers, Mi-Mo uses motion tracking and LIDAR to move seamlessly across the floor, staying by your side whether you’re reading, working, or watching TV.

It’s equipped with wireless charging pads, cup holders, and ambient lighting. The table can even "learn" your preferred positions over time, adjusting its speed and pathing to avoid obstacles. It’s like having a butler—only flatter and far more modern.

5. Nékojita FuFu Mug – AI Blows Your Tea for You

Have you ever burned your tongue sipping a too-hot beverage? The Nékojita FuFu mug is here to help. Named after the Japanese phrase for a "cat tongue" (sensitive to heat), this mug uses a built-in fan to cool your drink to an optimal sipping temperature using AI algorithms.

It detects steam levels and drink temperature, then activates a gentle airflow accordingly. Plus, it comes shaped like a sleepy cat—because why not combine comfort, function, and cuteness? For $25, this is one of the most charming (and useful) oddities you’ll want on your desk.

6. Moflin – The Pet Robot That Bonds With You

Not ready for the responsibility of a real pet? Meet Moflin, the AI-powered robotic creature that mimics the behavior of a small animal. It uses emotional AI to “learn” from your interactions and develop a unique personality over time.

It doesn’t walk or bark—but it coos, wiggles, and reacts in a way that feels surprisingly lifelike. Perfect for children, elderly users, or pet-allergic households, Moflin offers emotional companionship with zero cleanup. Its oddly adorable fluffball shape and soothing behaviors make it an irresistible gadget companion.

7. Smalt – The Smart Salt Shaker with Mood Lighting

This isn’t just a salt shaker. Smalt is a smart kitchen gadget that combines seasoning, music, and mood lighting. It’s equipped with Bluetooth speakers, voice control, and customizable LED lights, making it more of a table centerpiece than a condiment container.

You can shake it manually or use an app to release precise amounts of salt. It even recommends recipes and pairs with smart home assistants. While it sounds excessive, Smalt has gained a cult following among foodies who love combining tech with their culinary adventures.

8. The Air-O-Mask – Wearable Scent Technology

The Air-O-Mask looks like a futuristic face covering but functions as a scent-delivery device. Developed for sensory therapy and VR immersion, the mask emits controlled fragrances—lavender for calm, citrus for focus, or chocolate during dessert VR.

It’s now used in mindfulness apps, immersive storytelling experiences, and even gaming. Imagine walking through a VR forest and actually smelling pine. Odd, yes—but incredibly immersive. Wearable scent tech could be the next frontier in digital experiences.

9. Padrone Ring – Mouse On Your Finger

Ditch the traditional mouse. The Padrone Ring slips on your index finger and transforms your desk into a giant trackpad. With simple hand movements, you can scroll, click, zoom, and drag on your computer—all wirelessly.

Ideal for designers, gamers, and techies who want more fluid interaction with their devices, the Padrone Ring is small, stylish, and surprisingly intuitive after a short learning curve. It looks like a minimalist piece of jewelry, but it’s one of the most effective and strange input devices in recent memory.

10. Reon Pocket – Sony’s Wearable Air Conditioner

Strap it to your neck, and Sony’s Reon Pocket cools or heats your back using thermoelectric tech. Controlled by smartphone, it can lower your body temperature by up to 13°F during heat waves or warm you during chilly commutes.

Originally created for Japanese businessmen in suits, it has become popular with cyclists, athletes, and travelers. Though it’s not exactly fashion-forward, it’s one of those bizarrely brilliant gadgets you’ll wish you had during a hot summer day.

11. Toasteroid – The Smart Toaster That Prints Messages

Who said breakfast had to be boring? Toasteroid is a smart toaster that lets you print designs, emojis, and even daily weather forecasts onto your toast. Controlled through an app, you can create personalized messages or images that get seared onto your bread each morning.

It’s fun for kids and adults alike—and a surprisingly creative way to send morning notes. Whether it’s a smiley face or a gentle reminder (“Dentist at 2 PM”), Toasteroid turns toast into communication. It’s whimsical, weird, and undeniably fun.

12. OstrichPillow – Nap Anywhere, Anytime

Looking like a cross between a pillow and a space helmet, the OstrichPillow is one of the strangest sleep accessories on the market. Slip your head into it, and you’re enveloped in soft, noise-dampening foam with breathing holes to let you nap anywhere—on planes, desks, or couches.

Despite the odd look, users swear by its effectiveness. It blocks light, muffles sound, and cradles your head in cushy comfort. For power-nappers or sleep-deprived students, the OstrichPillow is a dream come true.

13. Moodo – Smart Home Fragrance Diffuser

Imagine a room that smells different depending on your mood—or even the weather outside. Moodo is a smart scent diffuser that connects to your phone and lets you mix and control fragrances in real time.

It uses interchangeable capsules like a Nespresso machine for smells. Want your home to smell like a fresh forest in the morning and a cozy fireplace by night? Just set the schedule in the app. While it may sound unnecessary, Moodo turns your home into a multisensory sanctuary—and yes, it smells as good as it sounds.

14. Vibram Furoshiki Shoes – Wrap-Around Footwear

Named after the Japanese wrapping cloth, Vibram’s Furoshiki shoes wrap around your foot like a soft bandage rather than slipping on like traditional footwear. With no laces or tongue, they provide a custom fit by adhering to your foot’s shape.

They look unusual—like ninja gear—but users rave about the comfort and portability. Roll them up, toss them in your bag, and take them anywhere. They’re perfect for travel, yoga, or people who simply hate traditional shoes. Functional weirdness at its best.

15. Ulo – The Owl Security Camera That Watches With Eyes

Ulo is a cute, owl-shaped home security camera that uses animated digital eyes to convey emotions and statuses. When it’s recording, it squints; when it's charging, it blinks slowly. Controlled via smartphone, Ulo offers full surveillance functionality while looking more like a toy than a spy cam.

Beyond the novelty, it’s a solid indoor camera with motion detection, two-way audio, and cloud connectivity. Its expressive eyes are both charming and informative, making Ulo a perfect blend of utility and cuteness.

16. The Somnox Sleep Robot – Cuddle Your Way to Better Rest

Looking like a beanbag fused with a smart pillow, the Somnox Sleep Robot is designed to be cuddled. It simulates breathing rhythms and emits soothing sounds to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Studies show synchronized breathing can calm your nervous system, and Somnox takes this idea to heart—literally. It uses sensors and AI to adapt to your breathing and promote relaxation. It might look a little strange, but its effectiveness has been backed by sleep researchers, making it one of the most oddly helpful gadgets of recent years.

17. COWAROBOT R1 – A Suitcase That Follows You

Traveling hands-free sounds like a dream—and that’s exactly what the COWAROBOT R1 offers. This AI-powered suitcase follows you around the airport using GPS, cameras, and obstacle avoidance sensors.

It’s surprisingly fast, maneuvering through crowds with ease, and even locks itself when it detects someone else trying to move it. With built-in USB charging and an anti-loss alarm, it’s the luggage of the future. Though it may raise eyebrows at baggage claim, you’ll be the envy of every traveler.

18. Kiki – The Lovable AI Robot Pet

Unlike robotic pets that mimic dogs or cats, Kiki is in a league of its own. This social robot learns your personality and responds accordingly—whether it’s shy, playful, or grumpy. With facial recognition and voice interaction, Kiki develops a “relationship” with you over time.

It wiggles its ears, blinks expressively, and responds to petting or voice commands. It doesn’t just perform tasks—it builds emotional bonds. For those seeking an unusual, interactive companion, Kiki brings a new kind of warmth to the world of artificial intelligence.

19. Scentee Machina – Aroma That Reacts to Your Mood

If you thought smart scent devices were done, think again. Scentee Machina combines AI with aroma diffusing by reading your facial expressions through a companion app and releasing a scent to match.

Feeling stressed? It’ll emit lavender. Looking sleepy? Peppermint. It can even be synced with smart lights and music systems to create a fully immersive emotional environment. Though still niche, the idea of emotion-responsive tech is growing—and Scentee’s approach is one of the weirdest and most fascinating.

20. PAL-V Liberty – The Flying Car You Can Actually Buy

We’ve waited decades for flying cars—and now they exist. The PAL-V Liberty is a three-wheeled gyrocopter that can drive on roads and fly in the sky. It’s street legal in Europe and has been cleared for limited commercial use in the U.S.

When in driving mode, it looks like a sporty trike. But in less than 10 minutes, its rotor blades unfold and it transforms into a compact aircraft. While it requires a pilot’s license and costs more than most homes, it’s a real, purchasable gadget—the culmination of decades of automotive fantasy.

Conclusion: The Age of Weird is Here—and It Works

In a world where smartwatches and voice assistants have become the norm, it’s the bizarre, unexpected gadgets that now capture our attention—and our wallets. These strange devices, once considered gimmicks, are becoming symbols of a new age of innovation: one driven by curiosity, emotional connection, and playful functionality.

Whether it’s a salt-enhancing spoon or a cuddly sleep robot, what makes these gadgets so compelling is their blend of imagination and practical value. They don’t just solve problems—they redefine them, challenging us to think differently about everyday experiences like eating, sleeping, traveling, and even feeling. These inventions prove that technology doesn’t have to be rigid, minimalist, or hyper-serious. It can be cute, quirky, and even a little eccentric—as long as it works.

Many of these tools also speak to deeper trends in tech: personalization, sensory immersion, and emotional intelligence. From devices that respond to your mood to robots that form relationships, we are entering a time when machines don’t just assist us—they adapt to us. As artificial intelligence and robotics continue to evolve, we can expect even more delightful weirdness in our future.

So, whether you’re a gadget geek, a trend chaser, or just someone who appreciates the strange and wonderful, keep your eyes open. The next device that makes you raise an eyebrow might just change the way you live, work, or play.

Because in the ever-expanding world of technology, weird isn’t just welcome—it’s the new frontier.

Q&A: Common Questions About Weird Tech Gadgets

Q1: Why are so many new gadgets so bizarre-looking?

A: Many new gadgets prioritize innovation and multi-functionality, which often leads to unconventional designs. Their strange appearances help them stand out and reflect their novel purposes.

Q2: Are weird gadgets just gimmicks or do they have real value?

A: While some may start as gimmicks, many provide real solutions—such as aiding sleep, reducing sodium intake, or supporting mental well-being through sensory technology.

Q3: Do these strange gadgets have practical use in everyday life?

A: Absolutely. From robot assistants to wearable air conditioners, these gadgets often solve overlooked problems in surprisingly efficient ways.

Q4: Who typically uses these weird gadgets?

A: Early adopters, tech enthusiasts, frequent travelers, and people looking for accessibility or emotional support tools often embrace these innovative products.

Q5: Are any of these gadgets affordable?

A: Yes. Items like the Nékojita FuFu mug or the OstrichPillow are priced under $50, making them accessible to most consumers.

Q6: How do these gadgets fit into the smart home ecosystem?

A: Many integrate with smart assistants like Alexa or Google Home, expanding functionality and ease of use within existing ecosystems.

Q7: Are emotional AI gadgets like Moflin and Kiki safe for children?

A: Generally, yes. These devices are designed with safety in mind and offer companionship and stimulation suitable for kids, though parental guidance is advised.

Q8: How reliable are AI-powered robotic gadgets like Ballie or Mi-Mo?

A: While still evolving, they use advanced sensors and machine learning to improve over time. Regular updates enhance their reliability and safety.

Q9: Do wearable gadgets like the Solar Cape or Reon Pocket actually work?

A: Yes, under appropriate conditions. They are effective in providing on-the-go power or personal climate control, though they may not replace traditional gear.

Q10: What’s next for weird tech gadgets?

A: Expect more emotional intelligence, personalization, and immersive features. As AI and design trends evolve, weird will become increasingly normalized in everyday tech.