Among the array of bizarre yet fascinating inventions showcased at CES 2025, the Nékojita FuFu emerges as a standout delight. This unique, feline-inspired robot finds its place on the rims of cups and bowls, providing a gentle breeze to cool down your meals and beverages. Not only is it practical, but its charming design adds a dose of whimsy to the dining experience.

According to Yukai Engineering, the Japanese company responsible for this lovable gadget, the Nékojita FuFu aims to replicate the joy brought by interacting with an infant. Its compact and playful demeanor achieves this intent, rather than solely its function of cooling drinks.

Credit: Jake Peterson

The term “neko-jita,” translating from Japanese to “cat tongue,” describes the sensitivity some individuals have to hot foods and beverages. A 2018 study highlighted by Yukai Engineering indicated that around half of the Japanese population experiences this discomfort. The “fufu” part of the name mimics the soothing sound of breathing, adding a playful tone.

There’s more to the Nékojita FuFu than just looks. This gadget houses a cleverly designed internal fan that employs an innovative algorithm, offering up to eight distinct blowing modes, each with its charming title—from the gentle increase in power dubbed “Look at That!” to the more persistent “’Til You Drop.”

However, not all modes may be included in the final version, and the robot is programmed to switch between modes randomly. This randomness is intended to give the cooling device a more organic, less mechanical feel. It operates on a rechargeable internal battery, conveniently charged via a USB-C port.

Prototypes suggest that the Nékojita FuFu can effectively reduce the temperature of boiling water from 190°F (88°C) to a cozy 160°F (71°C) in roughly three minutes and can cool it down to 151°F (66°C) in five minutes. As a reference, without the assistance of the bot, the water cools to 176°F (80°C) and 171°F (77°C) in the same timeframe, showcasing its efficiency.

The robot can simply be placed beside a dish for assistance.
Credit: Yukai Engineering

“The Nékojita FuFu was conceived as a companion for your meals, allowing you to combat ‘neko-jita’ challenges anywhere you go,” states Tsubasa Tominaga, Yukai Engineering’s Chief Marketing Officer. “This little robot is not just a fun way to enjoy steaming coffee; it’s beneficial for elderly individuals who might struggle with hot soups and can lessen the workload of parents helping their children eat.”

Unfortunately, the charming “mascot robot” seems poised to remain exclusive to Japanese markets. Those residing elsewhere might need to explore creative avenues to obtain one. A crowdfunding initiative is set to launch in mid-2025, with an anticipated retail price of approximately ¥3,800 Japanese yen (around $25).