Three CES 2025 Products I'd Buy Immediately

As CES 2025 wraps up, it’s time to reflect on the standout products that caught my attention—those I'd be eager to purchase without hesitation.

Mcon MagSafe Phone Controller

The popularity of MagSafe and other magnetic accessories has exploded recently. Even Android manufacturers are getting in on the trend, creating a wealth of clever and helpful tools. One of the highlights at CES was the Mcon controller from King. Unlike your typical accessories like kickstands or battery packs, this device cleverly transforms your smartphone into a portable gaming powerhouse.

I may not be the most hardcore gamer, but I enjoy using emulators to play nostalgic games on my phone, especially during long flights. With modern smartphones boasting impressive specs—many featuring thermal cooling and up to 16GB of RAM—it's an excellent time for mobile gaming.

The Mcon controller allows you to magnetically attach your smartphone and flip out a robust control pad complete with responsive, drift-resistant Hall Effect sticks. It connects via USB-C or Bluetooth for seamless input synchronization. Currently, you can pre-order the Mcon on Kickstarter for $99, with anticipated retail prices ranging from $99 to $150.

Kirin Electric Salt Spoon

An intriguing product that caught my eye is the electric salt spoon from Kirin. This innovative utensil uses a mild electric current to enhance the flavor of food, making it taste saltier. You can even adjust the level of added saltiness as well as umami.

Although the design of the spoon may take some getting used to, as it has a thicker handle housing the technology, I see great potential for it. To use it effectively, you need to press the sensor while positioning the food directly over the current distribution sensor. This could require patience, but it may also be beneficial for those on low-sodium diets or managing caloric intake. I would consider buying this innovative spoon for myself or as a gift, provided I embrace the learning curve.

LG Indoor Gardening Appliance

One of the more overlooked products at CES 2025 was LG's new indoor gardening appliance, which got me excited. I have a fondness for houseplants, and I appreciate their benefits like cleaner air and stress reduction.

This indoor gardening appliance functions like a lampshade, offering height-adjustable LED lights ideal for growing different plants, including herbs, leafy greens, flowers, and even fruits. LG claims the appliance can support up to twenty plants with four seed kits, and it features a hidden 1.5-gallon water reservoir for easy care.

The design is compact, only about the size of a typical side table, making it suitable for various home or office aesthetics. It also syncs with the LG ThinQ app, allowing users to set growth schedules, adjust lighting, and track their plants’ progress.

CES, technology, gaming