Key Takeaways:
Project AVA is a cylindrical holographic device that projects a 5.5-inch interactive 3D avatar.
Powered by xAI’s Grok backend, it functions as a gaming coach, productivity aide, and personalized companion.
Scheduled for H2 2026, US users can reserve their unit now with a refundable $20 deposit.
Razer has stolen the spotlight at CES 2026 with the official debut of Project AVA, a multifunctional holographic AI assistant designed to live on your desktop. Evolving far beyond its initial CES 2025 concept as a niche esports coach, AVA has matured into an all-in-one “digital partner.” Housed in a sleek cylindrical chassis with a signature RGB base, the device projects a 5.5-inch dynamic 3D avatar capable of real-time interaction, blending high-end gaming utility with genuine lifestyle companionship.
From Backseat Gamer to Intelligent Partner
Project AVA differentiates itself through “lifelike presence.” Users can choose from a library of avatars – ranging from original characters like “Kira” and “Zane” to licensed esports legends (inspired by icons like Faker) and anime customizations. The device utilizes an HD camera for eye-tracking and a far-field microphone array to facilitate natural conversation. Crucially, its PC Vision Mode allows the AI to “see” the user’s screen in real-time, enabling it to offer contextual advice whether the user is analyzing a spreadsheet or navigating a complex game map.
Powered by a Grok xAI backend (with plans for multi-LLM expansion), AVA features an adaptive learning engine that tracks user preferences, moods, and schedules. It prioritizes privacy by processing sensitive data offline via a USB-C connection to the host PC.
Razer with the official debut of Project AVA
Three Pillars of Utility
Razer positions AVA as a versatile tool across three core domains:
It acts as a real-time strategist, suggesting loadouts for titles like Battlefield or helping solve puzzles without ever taking control of the mouse and keyboard. It also serves as a “hype man,” providing morale support during intense matches.
The AI assists with brainstorming, data analysis, and live translation, effectively serving as a second brain for creative professionals.
AVA functions as a wellness coach, offering reminders, dinner planning, and emotional support that feels “natural, engaging, and personal.”
Redefining the Desk Peripheral
Project AVA enters a crowded AI companion market, competing with pure-software solutions like Replika and xAI’s standalone Grok. However, Razer is betting that the holographic form factor and deep integration with gaming culture will create a unique emotional bond that screen-based assistants lack. Following the mixed reception of previous hardware AI attempts like the Rabbit R1, Razer’s focus on a stationary, high-power desk gadget aims to avoid the pitfalls of mobile AI wearables.
Availability
Razer targets a release window in Q2 2026. While final pricing remains under wraps, the device is positioned as a premium lifestyle gadget. US customers can secure their spot in line starting today with a $20 refundable deposit at Razer.com. If successful, AVA could redefine the desk peripheral market much like the DeathStalker keyboard did a decade ago, transitioning peripherals from passive tools to active, intelligent participants in the user’s digital life.
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