Razer Introduces a Waifu in a Tube at CES 2026

Meet Ava's New Companions Including the League Legend Faker

In the past year, Razer dazzled with Project Ava, a virtual helper housed within your computer, optimizing settings and offering gaming advice. Yet this year at CES 2026, their AI assistant platform has received a significant upgrade, transitioning into a new and more tangible environment.

Ava, now liberated from the confines of a computer screen, resides in a sleek, small cylinder capable of projecting a 5.5-inch mobile holographic image of the AI's avatar. It still requires a USB-C connection to your device to power Ava, but all other aspects of the assistant are integrated into this cylindrical hub. This includes dual long-distance microphones to engage in conversation, a downward-firing comprehensive speaker for vocal interaction, and an HD camera with a light sensor, allowing the AI to interact and respond to its physical environment.

A major enhancement to Project Ava is the introduction of new virtual characters alongside Ava herself, described by Razer as 'a steadfast, serene energy to keep tasks streamlined and efficient.' The lineup features Kira, a TikTok-inspired digital persona complete with elaborate attire and the classic Razer neon green highlights. In contrast, Zane channels a more daring and masculine vibe, reminiscent of internet meme culture, adorned with snake tattoos. Sao offers a nod to Japanese business elegance, inspired by renowned professional figures. Additionally, there's a digital rendition of Faker, the legendary League of Legends player and esports ambassador for Razer.

The evolution of this idea means that instead of an on-screen entity, Ava or one of her fellow digital personas can occupy a space on your desk, serving as a virtual assistant for various needs. These avatars can notify you of important events, answer questions, or even critique your attire via the integrated camera system. Privacy concerns are addressed with the capability to mute microphones and an anticipated physical shutter on cameras in final retail versions. Throughout gaming, Ava and her companions stand by to offer strategic advice. During a demonstration, Kira assisted with selecting equipment in Battlefield 6, considering user preferences and suggesting advantages and disadvantages of different gaming gear.

Although familar with Kira and Zane in their digital displays, Sao and Faker are not quite ready for hologram introductions. This is by design, as Razer envisions Project Ava as a development-in-progress. Currently, avatars operate with responses generated by X AI’s Grok (frequented by mixed reviews), but the platform is fundamentally open-source, supporting other AI systems like Gemini or ChatGPT.

Looking ahead, Razer aims to allow users to craft uniquely personalized avatars and digital companions, drawing on personal inspiration or real-world analogs. Meanwhile, for instances like Faker’s representation as he remains an actual human entity, Razer seeks further development time to enhance AI utility, including providing real-time coaching for League of Legends.

While some may find Project Ava peculiar or unsettling, it appears surprisingly conventional in a digital era where AI relationships are increasingly familiar. For those who appreciate digital relationships over traditional human interactions, Project Ava’s manifestation offers a more physical form for these tech-centric bonds.

Regrettably, Razer has yet to disclose the complete pricing structure for Project Ava’s holographic device, though estimates suggest it will be comparable to their other gadgets. A general cost estimation suggests around $200. The reservation period for Project Ava has commenced, requiring a deposit of $20, with early shipments expected in the latter half of 2026.