Seven of the best AI-inspired Christmas gift ideas

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Generative AI has quietly become the standout feature of 2024, and now it’s sneaking under the Christmas tree. From fridges that know when you’re low on milk to robot vacuums that “think” their way around your home, AI-powered appliances are no longer just futuristic novelties—they’re practical tools transforming everyday life.
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This year, brands like Samsung, LG, and GE are leading the charge, rolling out smart devices that don’t just react—they anticipate. Whether it’s ovens that recognise what’s cooking or washing machines that optimise every load, AI is making appliances feel more intuitive, personal, and, dare we say, thoughtful.

Even the quirkiest AI tools, like companion robots or pocket-sized assistants, are finding their way into our lives—and onto our wish lists.

Here’s a look at some of the standout releases from 2024.


Samsung AI Family HubTM French Door Refrigerator

Ever stood in front of your fridge, wondering what to cook with the random assortment of ingredients inside? Samsung’s AI Family Hub™ French Door Refrigerator might be your new best friend.

The standout feature, AI Vision Inside, uses an internal camera to identify up to 33 food items, automatically suggesting recipes tailored to your current stock. It even lets you set use-by dates, sending reminders to avoid food waste—a lifesaver for busy households.

The fridge’s SmartThings integration extends beyond food management. It tracks energy consumption in real-time, notifying you if your usage exceeds preset targets, and connects seamlessly with other smart home devices.

The AI-powered touchscreen doesn’t just look futuristic; it acts as a digital hub. You can stream cooking tutorials, browse recipes, and even control compatible appliances—all from your fridge door.

For tech enthusiasts, the promise of a smarter kitchen outweighs the quirks. Sure, it might be a bit big to sneak under the tree but its ability to transform some of those mundane day-to-day tasks make it an absolute winner for the family home.

The tech giant has made no secret of their intent when it comes to AI either, extending well beyond the kitchen. At CES 2024, the company outlined how artificial intelligence is quietly reshaping their entire product lineup—from smarter energy management to Galaxy AI tools that streamline device connectivity. Whether it’s optimising power usage or simplifying routines across the home, Samsung is betting big on AI as the backbone of modern convenience.


Apple Vision Pro

Apple’s Vision Pro has been a curious proposition since launch: a futuristic headset that marries immersive entertainment with productivity. But beyond its space-age design and 3D dinosaurs, what’s it actually like to live with?

The answer depends on how willing you are to embrace Apple’s “spatial computing” experiment. Watching films in a virtual cinema feels undeniably cool, and video calls with expressive avatars (that actually move like you) are unlike anything else. There’s a sense of stepping into the next phase of tech—until you notice the 2-hour battery life or start feeling the weight on your forehead.

For those ready to jump, now might be the time. With apps growing and Apple refining the experience through software updates, Vision Pro isn’t perfect, but it’s starting to feel less like a gimmick and more like a stepping stone to what’s next.


Amazon Fire HD 8: AI-Integrated Tablet

Amazon’s Fire HD 8 tablet has been updated to include AI-powered features aimed at enhancing user experience. The device now offers an AI-powered Wallpaper Creator, allowing users to generate images from text prompts for personalized wallpapers.

Additionally, the Writing Assist tool can proofread, rewrite, or add emojis to text across various apps, and the Webpage Summaries feature provides concise overviews of online content. While these AI features add a layer of functionality, some users find them to be more of a novelty rather than essential tools.

The Fire HD 8 remains an affordable tablet option, with the AI enhancements serving as supplementary features that may appeal to users interested in exploring AI capabilities in a tablet format.


Moxie Robot

Moxie, created by Embodied, is a groundbreaking AI-powered robot designed to support children aged 5 to 10 in developing social and emotional skills. Headed by former NASA scientist Paolo Pirjanian, Embodied equipped Moxie with advanced sensors and AI that allow for deep, interactive conversations. Children can engage in play-based activities, exploring lessons on kindness, friendship, and emotional recognition.

Moxie’s KidFilter ensures dialogues remain appropriate, addressing parental concerns. With claims that 71% of children who used Moxie improved their social skills, this $599 companion robot blends innovation and education, offering a modern approach to child development.


Narwal Freo Z Ultra Robotic Vacuum & Mop

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra might just be the smartest cleaning buddy you’ll ever own. Packed with AI-driven smarts, it doesn’t just vacuum and mop—it thinks its way around your home. Dual RGB cameras and AI chips mean it can identify over 120 obstacles, from power cords to pet messes, adjusting its route in real time. No more worrying about shoelaces getting sucked up or sticky spots left behind.

Its AI DirtSense 2.0 takes cleaning up a notch, analysing surfaces and tweaking suction or mopping pressure to get the job done right. Tiles? It scrubs harder. Hardwood? It’s gentler. Plus, the base station is no slouch—it auto-cleans the mop, sterilises the water, and even dries everything so it’s ready for next time.

It’s not perfect and at $2,499, it’s definitely an investment. But for anyone craving an AI-powered upgrade to their cleaning routine, the Freo Z Ultra delivers serious smarts that make it more than just another robot vacuum


MSI Creator A16 AI+

The MSI Creator A16 AI+ is a laptop built for creators who want power and intelligence in one sleek package. With AI at its core, it automatically adjusts settings to keep up with whatever you’re doing—whether that’s editing videos, designing, or working on the go.

It’s lightweight and portable but doesn’t hold back on performance. The 16-inch MiniLED display makes colours pop, while the AI-powered engine helps optimise speed and efficiency. Tools like Microsoft Copilot+ even assist with tasks like writing and brainstorming ideas, making it more than just a laptop—it’s a creative partner.


HoverAir X1 Drone

The HoverAir X1 is the ultimate AI-powered Christmas gift for tech lovers and creators on the go. Weighing just 128 grams and small enough to slip into a pocket, this portable drone ditches complex controllers and GPS, launching straight from your palm with a tap. Powered by smart AI, it tracks, follows, and films you hands-free with pre-programmed modes like Follow, Orbit, and Bird’s Eye—perfect for capturing holiday adventures, family gatherings, or scenic outdoor moments.

With 2.7K video quality and seamless subject tracking, the HoverAir X1 offers an effortless way to upgrade your content without the hassle of traditional drones. It’s lightweight, intuitive, and a game-changing gift for vloggers, travellers, or anyone who loves documenting life with a touch of AI magic.


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Head of News & Life