Gadgets

SoftBank Robotics has announced that its humanoid robot "Pepper," which has been popular for over a decade, has been officially certified by Guinness World Records as the world's first mass-produced humanoid service robot. Celebrating 11 years since its birth, Pepper continues to evolve, with the company also launching "Pepper+" today, integrating the latest AI and video analysis technologies to expand its capabilities in various fields.

GetPairr On The Go offers a seamless in-car upgrade, transforming wired CarPlay vehicles into wireless hubs with an independent OS. This device eliminates the need for cables and reduces waiting times, enhancing the driving experience. Currently available through a special campaign, the effective price can be reduced to 10,395 JPY.

MUSIN Co., Ltd. is set to release the new 'Tocata XM2' portable audio player from its ONIX brand on February 6, 2026. This compact device, featuring a Cirrus Logic CS4308P DAC and a minimalist design, delivers traditional British sound. Pre-orders begin on January 30, 2026, and an early bird campaign offering exclusive accessories will run until February 28, 2026.

SWITCHBOT Corporation, a leading IoT and smart home brand, has unveiled KATA Friends, its first on-device LLM-equipped partner robot. Designed to understand words, gestures, and emotions, KATA Friends offers a lifelike interactive experience. It develops a unique personality based on interactions and time spent together. Pre-orders begin January 30, 2026, across various online and retail channels.

Rolling Seeds, an innovative phygital educational game for children aged 3-8 and their families, is set to launch on February 5, 2026. This product aims to transform tablet learning by integrating physical interaction, offering a hands-on experience that fosters concentration, understanding, and family engagement through playful learning.

Sincere Co., Ltd.'s lifestyle brand "RELAX" has announced the pre-sale of "Ray of Light," a new color for its Bluetooth-compatible CD player, "PIXEL TUNES," starting January 30, 2026. This new color embodies the concepts of "1998," "hope," and "a bright future," drawing inspiration from Madonna's album "Ray of Light" and the original iMac.

GAACAL, a brand supporting women balancing work and private life, has announced the third collaboration with Sanrio's I.CINNAMOROLL. This collection, featuring safe and cute gadgets like a slim 3-in-1 mobile battery and Type-C wired earphones, aims to add a touch of sparkle to the daily routines of working women.

The "KABENI PRO2" 2026 model, the top-tier offering in the "KABENI" mobile projector series which has sold over 80,000 units in Japan and accumulated 36.5 million views on social media, has been released with significant upgrades based on customer feedback. It is available for purchase starting January 29, 2026.

Experience the nostalgic gaming feel with unprecedented mobility for cloud gaming and remote play.

Elecom Co., Ltd. announces the release of a new ear-hook type single-ear wireless headset designed to suppress ambient noise and deliver clear voice communication. Featuring an ENC (Environmental Noise Cancelling) function, IPX4 waterproofing, and a compact charging case for extended use, this headset is ideal for long calls and web conferences, both indoors and on the go.