At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, iPolish has introduced press-on acrylic nails that change color using an electric charge, bringing a sci-fi concept to life. The innovation allows users to switch colors quickly via a connected wand, offering flexibility without frequent salon visits. The starter set is priced at $95, with shipping expected in June 2026.
The color-changing nails draw inspiration from a scene in the 1990 film Total Recall, where a character alters her nail polish color with a digital pen. After 35 years, iPolish has made this idea practical with their press-on acrylic nails, showcased at CES 2026, which runs from January 4 to January 9 in Las Vegas.
To use the system, users charge a wand that connects to a smartphone. They select a desired color from the app, then insert the tip of the nail into the wand, which delivers a short electric charge to trigger the change. The process takes about five seconds per nail, according to iPolish. While the company did not detail the technology, it appears to involve an electrochemical reaction.
Each nail supports 400 colors and can be changed unlimited times, enabling users to match outfits without committing to one shade for weeks. The nails come in fixed shapes—Ballerina, which are relatively short, and Squoval, which are longer—and cannot be reshaped, as doing so would damage the internal hardware.
Pricing makes the product accessible: the starter set costs $95 and includes two sets of nails, one in each shape. Replacement nails are available for $6.50 each, a fraction of typical salon costs for weekly color changes. iPolish plans to begin shipping in June 2026, though long-term quality and reliability remain to be tested.
This debut highlights ongoing innovations in wearable tech at CES, blending fashion with gadgetry for everyday use.
