Key Facts
- ✓ Razer introduced a physical holographic device for Project Ava at CES 2026
- ✓ The cylinder displays a 5.5-inch animated hologram and connects via USB-C
- ✓ New personas include Kira, Zane, Sao, and an avatar modeled after Faker (Lee Sang-hyeok)
- ✓ The device features dual microphones, a speaker, and an HD camera with ambient light sensor
- ✓ Reservations require a $20 deposit with shipments expected in the second half of 2026
Quick Summary
Razer has transformed its Project Ava from a screen-based digital assistant into a tangible holographic companion at CES 2026. The company introduced a new physical device that brings AI personas to life through a 5.5-inch animated hologram displayed inside a small tube.
The system now features an expanded roster of characters including Kira, Zane, Sao, and an avatar modeled after esports legend Lee Sang-hyeok (Faker). These companions can provide gaming advice, comment on outfits, and interact with users' surroundings through built-in cameras and microphones.
The device connects via USB-C and includes privacy features like muteable microphones and a planned physical camera shutter. While currently using X AI's Grok for responses, the platform is designed to support multiple AI models. Reservations are available now with shipments expected in late 2026.
Hardware and Physical Design
Razer has given Project Ava a physical home in the form of a cylindrical tube that displays a 5.5-inch animated hologram of the AI's avatar. The device moves beyond the computer screen to provide a tangible presence on the user's desk.
The peripheral requires connection to a computer via USB-C for power and data transfer. All other components are integrated into the device itself, including:
- Dual far-field microphones for voice interaction
- Down-firing full-range speaker for audio responses
- HD camera with ambient light sensor
The built-in camera allows the AI to see and react to its surroundings, including commenting on users' outfits. For privacy, the microphones can be muted, and Razer plans to include a physical camera shutter on final retail models.
"a calm, reliable source of energy to help you keep things clear, efficient, and always on point"
— Razer
Expanded AI Persona Roster
The biggest upgrade to Project Ava is the introduction of multiple new personas alongside the original calm and reliable Ava. Razer has developed several distinct characters to appeal to different user preferences.
Kira resembles a TikTok e-girl with a frilly outfit featuring Razer's signature neon green accents. Zane serves as her edgy masculine counterpart, described as reminiscent of the Giga Chad meme with additional snake tattoos.
Sao appears directly inspired by iconic Japanese salary woman Saori Araki. Perhaps most notably, there is an avatar created in the likeness of Lee Sang-hyeok, known globally as Faker, who is widely considered the most successful League of Legends player of all time and a sponsored Razer esports athlete.
During demonstrations, Kira and Zane were shown talking, dancing, and swaying in their containers. However, Sao and Faker were not ready for their holographic debuts, as Razer considers the project a work in progress.
Functionality and AI Capabilities
The Project Ava companions serve multiple practical purposes beyond visual appeal. They can remind users of upcoming events, answer questions, and provide gaming advice while sitting on the desk.
In gaming scenarios, the AI can offer real-time assistance. During a demonstration, Kira helped select a loadout in Battlefield 6 based on user criteria and provided pros and cons for various equipment options.
Currently, avatar responses are generated by X AI's Grok system. However, Razer created the platform as an open-source project designed to support other AI models including Gemini or ChatGPT.
Future updates aim to include:
- User-created unique avatars based on personal input
- Companions inspired by real-world objects
- Specialized features for personas like Faker, including real-time League of Legends coaching
Availability and Pricing
Razer has not provided full pricing details for the Project Ava holographic peripheral. A company representative indicated the price will fall within the same range as other Razer peripherals.
Industry estimates suggest a final cost of approximately $200. Reservations are currently active with a $20 deposit required. Official shipments are scheduled to begin sometime in the second half of 2026.
The company views Project Ava as an evolving platform rather than a finished product. Razer continues to refine the technology and expand capabilities based on user feedback and development progress.
