In the sea of products out there, a few stand out—and not necessarily for the right reasons. Whether they’re confusing, funny, or downright disturbing, these unusual items remind us that sometimes innovation can go a little off course. Here’s a look at some of the most head-scratching products ever to hit the shelves.
12. Galaxy Note 7: Explosive Failure
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7, released in 2016, is infamous for being one of the most publicized tech failures of the decade. Priced at around $850 at launch—approximately $1,050 today—it was packed with high-end specs and innovative features, including an iris scanner and a sleek curved design. However, the device suffered from a critical flaw: its battery tended to overheat and even catch fire.
Despite an initial recall and replacement program, the problem persisted, forcing Samsung to issue a full product recall and discontinue the device entirely. This incident not only led to billions in losses but also a significant dent in Samsung’s reputation and position in the mobile. Apple’s iPhone quickly overtook Samsung the following year as the most popular smartphone.
11. Virtual Boy: Ambitious, But More Headache Than VR
Nintendo’s Virtual Boy, launched in 1995, was a bold but ill-fated attempt at bringing virtual reality to gaming. Retailing for around $179.95 at launch—equivalent to about $350 today—it promised an immersive 3D experience. However, it quickly floundered due to its uncomfortable design, limited color display (only red and black), and a meager library of games. Players often reported headaches and eye strain from the device’s awkward headset, making long gaming sessions unpleasant. Between the poor ergonomics and lackluster content, the Virtual Boy was destined for an early death and was discontinued within a year.
10. HP Touchpad: Overhyped, Overmarketed, Undersold
HP’s TouchPad, released in 2011, was HP’s ambitious attempt at rivaling the iPad. Originally priced at $499 for the 16GB model and $599 for the 32GB version, these prices equate to roughly $670 and $800 today, adjusting for inflation. Despite a promising start with its webOS, which offered a unique multitasking experience, the TouchPad struggled due to a lack of app support, and sluggish performance, which ultimately led to the table being sold at a significant loss to stimulate sales. It died with HP’s decision to discontinue it just seven weeks after launch.
9. Diet Water: The Quest for Zero-Calories, Zero Logic
Yes, it’s real—“diet” water. It’s marketed as having less sugar and taste, leaving us to wonder: how can water go on a diet? The absurdity highlights the extremes companies will go to make their products sound new and improved, even when the concept itself is…a bit of a stretch. If you’re after hydration, just stick with good old regular water!
8. The Flowbee: When Vacuum Meets Haircut
Meet the Flowbee, a device that merges vacuum suction with hair cutting. This DIY “haircut helper” promises convenience but mostly just raises eyebrows—and hairs. The thought of a vacuum near your scalp is enough to make anyone wince. While it may have had its 15 minutes on infomercials, this is one haircut hack best left untried.
7. Almost Real Pumpkin: Almost Good Enough for Halloween
Nothing says Halloween like a pumpkin, but the “Almost Real Pumpkin” falls a little short of the charm of the real deal. This ceramic decoration with a blinking light claims to be “almost real,” but its fragile nature and faux look don’t quite capture the spirit. For $3.99, it’s a quirky stand-in, but if you’re after true festive vibes, you may want to carve up a classic.
6. Rejuvenique Face Mask: Beauty Treatment or Nightmare Fuel?
The Rejuvenique Face Mask was intended to rejuvenate skin with an electrifying twist—literally. Resembling a mix between a sci-fi horror mask and a high-tech beauty gadget, this device sends small electric currents to the face, purportedly stimulating muscles and tightening skin. Released in the late ’90s, it promised salon-level facials at home but instead left users feeling like they’d stepped onto a horror movie set.
With its unsettling look and questionable effectiveness, the mask garnered a cult-like status—not for beauty results, but for the eerie experience it delivered. Though it had a brief resurgence on late-night infomercials, most would agree that it’s better suited for Halloween costumes than skincare routines.
5. Snickers with Batteries: Danger in Disguise
Ever imagine grabbing a Snickers with batteries? Neither did we, but this baffling combo could turn a snack break into a health hazard. This unusual mash-up shows that not every innovation is smart—or safe. Always check labels, and remember: snacks and batteries don’t mix.
4. Organic Gummy Cherries: Candy with a Shock Factor
Black Forest Organic Gummy Cherries drew attention for their unintended resemblance to male anatomy, leading to both amusement and confusion among consumers. While intended to depict cherries, the gummies’ shape, complete with a stem and leaf, has sparked humorous interpretations. This oversight raises questions about the approval process, as it seems to have slipped through without notice. Despite the quirky design flaw, the gummies are praised for their delicious cherry flavor and chewy texture, resulting in a mixed reception where taste battles visual perception.
3. The Vibra Finger: A Misleading Gum Massager
Marketed as a “gum massager,” the Vibra Finger has a shape and concept that seem to beg for misuse. Although it claims to improve gum circulation, it’s likely to raise a few eyebrows. Not all health products hit the mark, and this one is better left on the shelf.
2. Asparagus Juice: Not Exactly Refreshing
There are juice blends, and then there’s Asparagus Juice. While asparagus is a tasty veggie, its juice is a different story. The sight of asparagus stalks in a drink doesn’t exactly scream refreshment, serving as a reminder that some flavors are better left in their original form.
1. Extendable Inspection Mirror: Creeping on Privacy Concerns
An Extendable Inspection Mirror marketed for “humor” might be funny at first, but its potential misuse makes it a little unsettling. Sometimes, product jokes go a bit far, especially when they brush up against privacy boundaries. Keep this one for comedy skits, not real life.
