Shocking Wearables and Tiny E-readers: May 2026 Gadgets

Summary

Imagine a business card-sized e-reader, a smartphone designed with unique aesthetics, and a wearable device that delivers a shocking wake-up call. This month's gadget grab bag features the Pavlock Shock Clock, a $160 fitness band that uses aversive conditioning with up to 600 volts to break bad habits or ensure you wake up. While effective, users must commit to weeks of training, and its design is less than appealing. Next, the XTE Ink X3 e-reader, inspired by Charlie Munger's habit of always carrying a book, is a 3.7-inch device weighing just 58 grams, making it highly portable. Though its e-paper display is sharp, it lacks a backlight and requires manual book loading, with pre-release software showing some loading issues. The Oppo Find X9 Ultra smartphone is highlighted for its Hasselblad-inspired design and impressive optics, standing out in the 2026 smartphone market. However, its software emulates the iPhone, and a bulky, expensive 300mm telephoto lens accessory is deemed more of a stunt than a practical addition. Finally, the Wand Company's Star Trek Triorder replica offers functional scanning capabilities for electromagnetic fields, barometric pressure, and temperature, alongside navigational features and log playback. Taking six years to develop, it showcases meticulous detail, custom UI design, and high-quality materials, exceeding expectations for a replica. Most of these products were provided as review samples, with manufacturers having no editorial input.