At the CES 2026 show in Las Vegas, a new gadget called the PePeHola S1 caught attention for enabling owners to interact with their dogs from afar. The Wi-Fi-connected rubber ball lets users control it via remote or app, bridging distances for pet owners on the go. Still in beta, it promises to launch soon on Kickstarter.
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 featured an array of innovations, but the PePeHola smart dog toy stood out for its practical appeal to pet owners separated by distance. Described as a durable rubber ball resembling a hamster toy, the PePeHola S1 connects via Wi-Fi, allowing real-time control from anywhere in the world.
During a demonstration on the show floor, the toy rolled and shifted on the floor, prompting an excited response from a dog as if its owner were present. A demonstrator shared her experience: she works primarily in China but keeps her two dogs in Korea, using the device to play with them despite being a short flight away. In a demo video, a man in an office activated the toy with a few taps on the remote control, watching his dog chase and interact with it enthusiastically.
The device supports various interactions, such as chasing, chewing, nudging, and wrestling, turning a simple toy into an interactive bridge for busy schedules and long trips. Control is also available through a dedicated mobile app, making it accessible from across town or continents—up to 2,000 miles or more.
Currently in beta testing, the PePeHola S1 is set to become available on Kickstarter in the near future. This innovation highlights how everyday tech can address the emotional challenges of pet ownership in a globalized world, without relying on flashy features but on reliable connectivity.
