I Tested 20 Smart Gadgets of 2026 — Here's What Happened

Technology is moving quickly, and 2026 has introduced some fascinating smart gadgets. I tested 20 different devices, each designed to make everyday life more convenient, connected, or entertaining. From AI-powered companions and innovative cameras to portable projectors, smart accessories, and advanced home technology, this lineup covers a wide range of ideas. Some gadgets solve simple problems in clever ways, while others bring futuristic features into daily life. In this video, we'll explore what makes each device unique, and why these gadgets are worth noticing. Let's get started. Acer C350e brings a fresh approach to portable projection by combining entertainment, smart features, and AI in one compact device. It delivers full HD 1920x1080 visuals, and can project images up to 100 inches, while its flexible stand rotates 360 degrees, and tilts up to 120 degrees. Autofocus, 2D keystone correction, and four-corner adjustment help make positioning easier in different spaces. One of its most interesting features is the detachable AI badge, which can work as a remote to display photos and widgets, and provide AI interactions through Google Gemini. The projector also includes a built-in smart system, two 3-watt speakers, Bluetooth audio, HDMI, and USB connectivity. Its LED light source is rated for up to 30,000 hours, and the projector weighs around 0.93 kilograms. Overall, the C350e shows how projectors are becoming smarter, more flexible, and useful for everyday entertainment. Anker Maggo 2 Pro brings a smarter approach to portable charging by combining a 10,000 mAh battery with advanced wireless and cooling technology. It supports up to 25W Qi 2.2 wireless charging, giving compatible phones faster magnetic power. To manage heat, Anker includes SnapCool Active Cooling with a built-in fan and dual air channels. The power bank also features a smart color display that can show battery level, temperature, battery health, and connected device information. For wired charging, its USB-C port supports up to 45W output and 45W recharge power, while Anker says it can reach 80% charge in around 52 minutes. A built-in adjustable stand can move from 0 to 80 degrees, adding convenience for hands-free viewing. Overall, the Maggo 2 Pro combines fast charging, cooling, monitoring, and practical design in one compact accessory for everyday mobile use and travel. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 5 brings flagship audio technology into a compact True Wireless design. Announced in August 2026, these earbuds feature a redesigned shape, high-resolution audio, adaptive noise cancellation, and immersive sound. They use Sennheiser's 7mm True Response Dynamic Transducer with a frequency range of 5Hz to 21kHz. Bluetooth 6.0 supports Apoedix Adaptive and Apoedix Lossless on compatible devices, while Dolby Atmos optimization with head tracking adds a more immersive experience. Hybrid Adaptive ANC adjusts noise control to surrounding conditions, with wind noise suppression for outdoor listening. Each earbud uses four microphones, including bone conduction technology, along with AI-powered voice isolation and beam forming for clearer calls. Battery life reaches up to 12 hours with ANC off, while the case provides up to 40 hours total. User-replaceable batteries and IP54 protection add practicality, making these earbuds designed for modern listening, communication, travel, and everyday use. Orson Zip Pro brings portable projection into a surprisingly compact package. Its trifold design lets the full-HD DLP projector fold down for carrying and open into a flexible big-screen setup. It features native 1080p resolution, 200 ANSI lumens, and a 1.2 to 1 throw ratio for projection distances from 0.5 to 3 meters. TOF zero-lag autofocus and four-point keystone correction help create a properly aligned image, while multiple projection modes add flexibility. A built-in smart touchscreen provides battery and connection information along with touch controls. Wireless casting supports Air-Link, Miracast, Airplay P2P, DLNA, and Google Cast, while USB-C handles video input. Its 38-watt-hour battery offers up to 150 minutes in eco mode, with 65-watt USB-C PD charging. Weighing 586 grams, the Zip Pro combines full HD projection, smart controls, wireless connectivity, and battery power in a highly portable design for entertainment anywhere. Piston V takes the idea of a gaming PC and packs it into a remarkably small form factor. Designed as a mini-PC and gaming console combination, it uses AMD's Ryzen AI 9365 processor and supports both Windows and a SteamOS-style gaming environment. A circular 4-inch touchscreen on the front provides system information and controls. The base model includes 16GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD, while users can upgrade to 64GB of memory and 4TB of storage. Connectivity includes USB4 and an OSU-Link interface for external graphics expansion, giving the system more potential gaming performance. Its compact design makes it suitable for both desktop tasks and living room gaming. The dual-OS approach is another key feature, combining traditional computing with a console-style experience. Overall, the Piston V shows how small gaming computers can offer flexible hardware, upgrades, and multiple ways to play. Sony Alt Tower 7 is designed to bring powerful sound and a party atmosphere to almost any gathering. It combines Sony's ULT power sound technology with a large 280mm circular woofer, two mid-range drivers, two tweeters, and rear tweeters for wide sound coverage. Four sound modes, including ULT1, ULT2, Flat, and Live, give listeners different ways to shape the audio. The speaker also offers DJ and karaoke connectivity through RCA, XLR, USB-A, USB-C, and microphone inputs. Bluetooth 5.3 supports SBC, AAC, and LDAC, while the Sound Connect app provides additional controls. Despite weighing around 22.8kg, built-in wheels and handles make transportation easier. Its rechargeable battery provides approximately 30 hours of playback, while IPX4 water resistance adds protection. Dynamic lighting completes the setup, making the ULT Tower 7 a versatile speaker for parties, gatherings, performances, and outdoor entertainment. Pro takes the rugged smartphone concept in a new direction by adding a detachable action camera. Weighing just 39g, the magnetic camera can be removed and mounted on helmets, handlebars, straps, or other accessories. It records up to 2.7K at 30 frames per second, and features a 133-degree ultra-wide view, distortion correction, SteadyX stabilization, and horizon lock. The module includes 64GB storage, and can record independently for 40 minutes. The phone itself has a 6.67-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and uses the MediaTek Dimensity 8400 5G processor, paired with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. A 9,300mAh battery supports 45W wired and 50W wireless charging. The XSnap 7 Pro also offers night vision, IP68 and IP69K protection, and MILSTD-810H certification, making it well-suited for demanding outdoor environments and versatile content creation. Its unusual modular design also gives users more freedom when capturing hands-free footage from different perspectives. Ulanzi AU-05 Vibe Key brings AI-focused controls into a compact desktop accessory designed for modern computer workflows. It combines voice input, physical shortcuts, and a multi-function knob for tasks involving AI assistance, writing, coding, and creative software. The main voice key uses a press-and-hold system, allowing users to speak commands before releasing the button. Its omnidirectional microphone is designed to capture quiet speech, while compatibility includes tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Codex. Six physical keys and a multi-function knob provide shortcuts for actions like confirming, rejecting, or controlling tasks. Through Ulanzi Studio, users can remap controls and create different presets. The device features an 84g CNC-machined aluminum body, magnetic mounting, hot-swappable Gateron low-profile switches, USB-C charging, and up to 5 days of battery life. With wireless connectivity for Windows and MacOS, the AU-05 shows how AI interaction is moving beyond traditional keyboards and mice. ViaLoop AI Assistant takes a different approach to computer assistance by moving AI hardware outside the PC. Instead of relying on a chatbot window, it connects between the computer and display, reads screen activity, prepares actions, and waits for user approval before controlling the system. It supports Windows and MacOS, with Linux planned. Inside, ViaLoop uses an RK3576 octa-core processor with a 26-tops AI accelerator, 8GB LPDDR4X memory, 128GB eMMC storage, and an AMOLED touchscreen. HDMI 2.0 enables up to 4K 30Hz screen capture, while USB-HID lets it operate as a keyboard and mouse without host drivers. Its local first design processes raw screen information on the device, while larger AI tasks can use cloud services through a personal API key. A physical confirmation button adds another layer of control. Overall, ViaLoop presents AI Assistance as dedicated hardware designed to work across different computer applications and workflows. Zinzo Mini UFO brings a futuristic style to outdoor lighting while focusing on portability and practical use. Designed as a compact camping light, it features a distinctive circular UFO-inspired shape and can produce up to 2,600 lumens. That level of brightness is intended to illuminate campsites, outdoor work areas, and surrounding spaces when stronger lighting is needed. The Mini UFO is presented through an official Kickstarter campaign, highlighting its design and outdoor-focused concept. Unlike traditional lanterns, its rounded body gives it a modern appearance that fits naturally alongside other futuristic gadgets. Its compact form also makes it easier to carry between locations. The idea is to combine useful illumination with contemporary industrial design, turning a familiar camping accessory into something more distinctive. Overall, the Zinzo Mini UFO shows how portable outdoor lighting can be redesigned with a futuristic identity while still focusing on brightness, portability, and everyday outdoor usefulness. Titanoverzo MagSafe Wallet transforms a familiar phone wallet into a compact, everyday carry system. Made from grade 5 titanium and measuring about 10mm thick, it attaches magnetically to MagSafe-compatible iPhones and cases, while keeping cards protected inside its metal body. Titana says the titanium chassis also provides electromagnetic shielding against unwanted RFID and NFC scanning. A standout feature is the one-push card access mechanism, which lets up to four cards fan out for easier selection. The adjustable retention system can accommodate different card thicknesses, including embossed cards. Verso comes in standard and card-only configurations, with optional tools such as a pen, precision blades, screwdriver bits, tweezers, and multi-tool functions. A dual locking mechanism combines magnetic attraction with a mechanical detent to help prevent accidental opening. With its CNC-machined titanium construction and modular design, the Verso reimagines the everyday wallet as a practical, organized, and highly-engineered MagSafe accessory. Noctilux AG09 combines several useful emergency functions in one compact device. Designed as a five-in-one companion, it brings together a jump starter, air compressor, vacuum pump, blower, and LED light for driving, camping, and outdoor situations. The jump starting function provides emergency assistance when a vehicle battery needs power, while the air compressor includes hoses and eight adapters for different inflation tasks. Its vacuum and blower functions can also help with cleaning and maintenance around vehicles or outdoor spaces. Portability is another important part of the design, with the package smart jumper cables, two air hoses, eight adapters, a charging cable, manual, and storage bag. The AG09 charges through USB-C, with Noctilux stating that a full charge takes about four hours. Overall, the device focuses on preparedness by combining several practical tools into one portable unit, reducing the need to carry separate equipment for different emergencies. PrimeBot T1 brings a different idea to personal robotics by transforming between two mobile configurations. It can operate as a wheeled humanoid robot for indoor movement, and switch to a quadrupedal form for outdoor environments. Designed as a consumer personal robot, T1 focuses on mobility, interaction, learning, and creative use. One notable feature is intelligent following, allowing the robot to accompany users while supporting autonomous filming. PrimeBot T1 says it includes more than 15 professional camera movement templates, giving creators more options for hands-free and dynamic shots. Its transformation system is designed for different environments, with the quadrupedal mode aimed at navigating surfaces such as stairs and inclines. The robot also incorporates multimodal interaction, contextual awareness, and long-term memory. At IFA 2026, T1 received an Innovation Award for content creation technology. Overall, PrimeBot T1 shows how consumer robots could combine mobility, AI interaction, education, and content creation in one evolving platform. iFlytek AI Note 2 brings the feel of writing on paper into a modern AI-powered workspace. At just 4.2mm thick and weighing around 295g, it features a 10.6 5-inch flexible e-ink display, with 1920x2560 resolution and 300ppi. The paper-like screen is designed for reading, handwriting, notes, and focused work. Its AI features can convert handwriting into digital text in more than 130 languages, transcribe conversations, translate spoken content, and create meeting summaries. Users can also interact with AI tools, including GPT-5, through voice assistance and selected text searches. Inside, the device uses an RK3576 octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and a 4000mAh battery. Running Android 14 with Google Play support, it also includes a Wacom electromagnetic pen. Overall, AI Note 2 combines digital paper, AI, and productivity features in a remarkably thin device. VSD inside MagTran M3 transforms the familiar desktop keyboard into a more visual and customisable control system. Designed with transparent magnetic switches and 15 LCD keys, it allows the controls themselves to display changing information and functions. The M3 is aimed at creators, streamers, gamers, and productivity-focused users who want flexible desktop controls. Through VSD craft software, users can assign shortcuts, macros, profiles, plugins, and visual themes for different tasks. The controls can change depending on whether someone is streaming, editing, working, or automating desktop actions. VSD inside also includes a magnetic calibration system to help ensure the LCD keys respond correctly. What makes the M3 different is its ability to combine physical buttons with a dynamic visual interface. Instead of fixed labels, each key can adapt to different applications and workflows. Overall, the MagTran M3 presents a futuristic approach to customisable computer controls and personalised desktop interaction for modern users. Comu Action Pro takes AI voice recording beyond simply saving audio files. This compact device combines dedicated recording hardware with AI tools designed to turn conversations, meetings, interviews, and discussions into useful digital work. Its six-microphone system includes four omnidirectional microphones, a directional microphone, and a bone conduction microphone. With up to 70 hours of recording according to Comu, a magnetic attachment allows it to connect directly to compatible smartphones. After recording, conversations can be transcribed and summarised, while the dedicated AI button can help create emails, slides, to-do lists, action plans, and documents. Comu also supports real-time transcription and translation across 113 languages. The device includes an OLED display, USB-C charging, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and security measures aligned with GDPR, IPAA, and SOC2 compliance according to the company. Overall, the Action Pro focuses on transforming spoken conversations into practical work, making recording the beginning of the workflow rather than the final step. Casio Mofflin Companion Robots takes a different approach to artificial intelligence by focusing on companionship rather than productivity or household tasks. With its soft, animal-like design, Mofflin uses adaptive AI to respond to touch, voice, and movement while gradually developing its own personality. Multiple sensors, including touch, light, and motion sensors, help it react to its surroundings. Mofflin can move and tilt its head while using a microphone and speaker to create expressive sounds and reactions. Casio says its emotional AI can simulate around four million emotional possibilities, allowing interactions to change over time. The MofLife app provides another way to monitor its emotional state and review interactions. Weighing about 260 grams, Mofflin includes a 1,200 mAh battery offering up to five hours of use, with a dedicated charging bed included. Overall, Mofflin presents AI as an interactive companion designed around emotional connection, personal interaction, and everyday presence. Snip Pocket Camera takes everyday photography in a remarkably small direction. Weighing just 33 grams, this compact camera is designed to fit easily into a pocket while capturing photos, video, and audio without a smartphone. It supports 16 megapixel photos and 2K video recording, giving the tiny device useful capabilities. One standout feature is its 360-degree rotating lens, which allows different shooting perspectives, including first-person views, environmental shots, and selfies. A built-in 1.45-inch IPS color display provides instant previews of captured content. Snip also embraces a retro photography style with creative filters, including CCD-inspired effects that give images a nostalgic digital camera feel. Storage uses a TF card, while USB-C handles charging and data transfer. A dedicated voice recording mode adds another function beyond photography. Overall, Snip is designed for spontaneous moments, offering a lightweight alternative to carrying a larger camera while combining modern recording features with a distinctive retro character. Alpagali Jacket turns everyday outerwear into a highly organized piece of outdoor equipment. Designed for city life, travel, commuting, hiking, and adventures, it combines more than 30 features in one garment. Its 14 multifunctional pockets can carry everyday essentials, tablets, bottles, clothing, and other gear, making the jacket function like wearable luggage. The storage system includes dual-access chest pockets, interior compartments, stretch mesh sections, and secure zippered areas. Weather protection is another key part of the design. The jacket uses recycled nylon 70D with dual-layer construction, DWR Level 3 water repellency, and 15,000mm waterproof and breathability ratings. Waterproof YKK zippers and a windproof build add further protection. Other features include built-in fingerless gloves, reflective rear stripes, detachable shoulder straps for backpack-style carrying, and a multi-purpose holder loop. Overall, Alpagali focuses on combining organization, weather protection, mobility, and convenience in one versatile jacket for modern outdoor lifestyles. Dyson Purifier Big Plus Quiet Formaldehyde is designed to handle air purification across larger indoor spaces. Using cone aerodynamics, it can project purified air more than 32 feet, helping circulate air throughout a room. Its three-stage system combines a HEPA H13-grade filter, carbon filtration, and a selective catalytic oxidation filter designed to break down formaldehyde into water and carbon dioxide. The purifier continuously monitors indoor air, detecting particles, gases, carbon dioxide, and formaldehyde before automatically adjusting its purification. Users can view air quality information through the built-in display or MyDyson app. Dyson also focuses on quieter operation, with airflow reaching up to 90 litres per second and adjustable projection angles of 0, 25, or 50 degrees. The fully-sealed filtration system is designed to prevent captured pollutants from escaping. Overall, the Big Plus Quiet Formaldehyde combines long-range airflow, advanced filtration, intelligent sensing, and connected controls to create a comprehensive approach to managing indoor air quality.