“They see you when you’re sleeping. They know when you’re awake. They know if you’ve been bad or good…” No, we’re not changing Santa’s pronouns. We’re talking about the AI-powered gadgets that are likely to be overflowing from his sack this holiday season.

AI toys began appearing on the market last year, quickly prompting warnings from child advocacy groups. But the 2026 holiday season will bring a much wider selection of AI gadgets for kids and adults alike, while AI companies are also pushing the technology as a shopping assistant.

This week has brought several announcements from Big Tech companies unveiling new AI-powered devices. Apple introduced a slate of smart home products, including the HomeView, which features a seven-inch screen and lets users control doorbells, thermostats, and smart locks, all powered by its AI-enhanced Siri.

Amazon is following a similar path with its introduction last week of new Alexa Tablets, which run on Alexa+, an AI-powered version of the company’s longstanding digital assistant. Simply say “Alexa” or tap the “Ask Alexa” button, and the chatbot can answer questions, control your smart home, and more. Prices for the three models range from $229 to $500.

Microsoft, which earlier this summer began testing a wearable AI device for office workers, is hoping shoppers spring for a new Surface laptop equipped with an Nvidia AI chip and a $2,599 price tag. The Surface Laptop Ultra, introduced last week, begins shipping October 16. Meanwhile, Meta is introducing a Windows version of its Muse AI agent , looking to capitalize on the tool’s popularity in Apple’s App Store.

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