As a self-professed gadget enthusiast with a particular fondness for quirky and largely useless inventions, I've backed more social robots on Kickstarter than most people I know. My kitchen still houses a working Jibo, even though its servers shut down years ago. It's an exciting time for gadget lovers in 2026, with numerous devices launching this year and beyond. However, unlike my beloved Jibo, the five gadgets I've selected for this roundup genuinely combine cuteness and fun with practical utility. These won't be mere decorative paperweights; they will actively enhance your daily life.

With CES 2026 now behind us, the sheer volume of new gadgets can be overwhelming. There's even a $20,000 humanoid robot slated for release next year. But this list is more grounded in reality—for the most part. Whether you're seeking assistance with work, health, or simply capturing memorable moments, these are the gadgets to watch in 2026.

Ecovacs LilMilo: A Fluffy Companion

I am a sucker for robot companions. I already own the LivingAI Emo pet, which loves to interrupt my meetings with random AI musings and cat impressions. I've also pre-ordered Razer's AVA, a holographic AI companion that promises to improve my gaming skills. While I don't necessarily need that, the idea of League of Legends legend Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok offering advice while I play sounds hilarious. And do we truly need anything anyway?

Ecovacs, a brand renowned for its robot vacuums, entered the companion robot market in 2026 with the LilMilo—a fluffy white robot dog released in May. It may look a little creepy at first glance, but it is designed to provide emotional support and companionship through lifelike dog behavior. Sure, you could adopt a real cat, but does a cat boast 40 sensors, a high-powered processor, and voice control? One drawback is the price tag of $599.99, which might be steep for those seeking a more functional robot helper instead of an eerie couch buddy.

The LilMilo represents a growing trend in emotional support robotics. Companies are increasingly focusing on the mental health benefits of robotic pets, especially for the elderly or those who cannot care for live animals. Ecovacs incorporated advanced AI that learns from user interactions, making the LilMilo more responsive over time. Its dog-like mannerisms, such as wagging its tail and tilting its head, are designed to elicit a nurturing response. While it's not a replacement for a human or even a real pet, it offers a low-maintenance option for companionship.

Google Fitbit Air: Sleek Fitness Tracking

As a recovering CrossFit addict who now swears by F45, I've been considering a fitness tracker for a while. My main issue has always been their lack of aesthetic appeal. I'm not a watch person, but the announcement of a new Fitbit sparked my interest—I used one about a decade ago. The Google Fitbit Air launched in May with an attractively sleek design that finally addresses the visual shortcomings of its predecessors.

Its week-long battery life far exceeds that of the Apple Watch, allowing you to wear it day and night to track sleep and physical activity continuously. The Google Health app automatically detects your workouts and logs your performance, but it also offers coach-recommended guided workouts. Starting at $99.99, it's one of the cheaper options on the market. For an additional $100 per year, you can subscribe to a premium Google Health subscription that unlocks an AI coach. We found the AI coach generally personable during our review, but I'd likely stick with the basics.

The Fitbit Air also features a high-resolution AMOLED display and improved heart rate sensors for more accurate readings. Google has integrated it seamlessly with the Google Fit ecosystem, allowing for comprehensive health data analysis. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned athletes alike. The lightweight design makes it comfortable for all-day wear, addressing a common complaint about bulkier fitness trackers.

Steam Machine: Valve's Living Room Comeback

I know, I know—it's over $1,000. But I remain optimistic about the Steam Machine, Valve's second attempt at a living room gaming PC that serves as a console-like box. I switched from PlayStation to PC a few years ago and haven't looked back, but the Steam Machine seems like an ideal middle ground. Its design is minimalist and stylish—a simple cube that doesn't resemble the overstuffed monstrosity of the PlayStation 5. Gaming is equally straightforward: plug it into your TV, download games, and play.

For a gaming console, the Steam Machine is exorbitantly expensive. But for a gaming PC, it's reasonably priced. It's essentially a compact PC that doesn't require you to sit at a desk. Don't expect the performance of a high-end gaming rig, but it will be a noticeable upgrade from the Steam Deck. Availability is limited; it's launching in June 2026, but you'll need luck on your side to secure one this year.

The Steam Machine uses a custom AMD APU and runs on SteamOS, offering a seamless experience with the vast Steam library. It supports 4K resolution and high frame rates for most games, although demanding titles may require lower settings. Valve has also improved the controller integration and user interface, making it more intuitive for console gamers. This device could be a game-changer for PC gaming in the living room, provided that Valve can maintain a steady supply chain.

Polaroid Go Instant Camera Generation 3

I am clearly drawn to cute things, and this latest Polaroid camera is adorable. I currently own a cheap instant camera that takes terrible photos, but it's still fun to snap a picture at events, shake the photo until the image appears, and keep a retro-tinged memory. Polaroid's new Go Instant Camera Gen 3 is a definite upgrade. Priced at $89.99, it features a selfie mirror, a self-timer mode, and promises sharper, clearer photos than previous models, even in poor lighting.

Of course, using an instant camera isn't about capturing the technically best photograph. It's about the vibe, the aesthetic, and seizing the moment in its authentic, imperfect form. There's something magical about holding a physical photograph these days. My boyfriend and I recently visited an astronomy club's "Star Party," and a stranger took our picture with a vintage instant camera—it's now one of my favorite images of us. It feels more genuine than anything I've posted on Instagram.

The Generation 3 also includes improved film chemistry that reduces development time and increases color accuracy. Polaroid has focused on sustainability, using recycled materials for the camera body and offering biodegradable film packs. The compact size makes it perfect for travel, and the selfie mirror ensures you're always in frame. In a digital-obsessed world, the Gen 3 is a refreshing nod to analog photography, blending nostalgia with modern convenience.

reMarkable Paper Pure: Digital Notepad

I never thought I'd recommend a $399 e-paper device, but I'm obsessed. As someone who loves physical planners and takes copious notes daily, the reMarkable Paper Pure feels like the most satisfying alternative to pen and paper. It's simple: you use one of their "markers" to write on a flat, paper-like tablet. reMarkable has meticulously recreated the feel of writing on paper using specific materials and textures, with the added benefit of a reusable interface.

Unlike a regular sheet of paper, the Paper Pure can organize your notes into folders and upload them to your computer or share them via apps like Outlook or Slack. And those doodles you made during a meeting stay secure—the device features multi-factor authentication to keep prying eyes out. The Paper Pure essentially merges the satisfaction of handwriting with the convenience of a laptop, creating a very satisfying digital notepad.

The device runs on a custom Linux-based operating system, optimized for low latency and high responsiveness. It supports PDF annotation, note-to-text conversion, and cloud synchronization across multiple platforms. The battery lasts for weeks on a single charge, making it an excellent tool for students, professionals, and creatives. reMarkable has also introduced a new marker with a softer nib, further simulating the friction of pen on paper. While the upfront cost is high, the long-term savings on paper and ink can be substantial for heavy note-takers.

How I Selected These Five Gadgets

Wading through the endless parade of gadgets that companies promote each year can be overwhelming, so I established clear criteria. First, the gadgets had to be released in 2026. Many products unveiled at CES 2026 are not yet available—some are concepts, others are in development, and many are only available for pre-order. The items in this list can be purchased as of June 2026.

Next, I looked for available products that genuinely excite. Everyone defines "exciting" differently, but for me, it means a product offers something unique that sets it apart from other gadgets in its category—whether through size, battery life, or features. These new gadgets bring something special to the table. I also ensured that their unique features are truly useful, adding organization, inspiration, fun, or love to your life. The result is a collection of gadgets that not only intrigue but also enhance daily living in meaningful ways.

Source:SlashGear News