Nvidia's Robot Ducks Are the Must-Have Toy This Christmas

Remember the Furby? The Microduck might be the next must-have toy. At Nvidia's GTC Berlin conference, CEO Jensen Huang played with a flock of these waddling robots, and the video went viral. The ducks stomp their feet, make R2-D2-like noises, sit, nap, and even somersault on command. Within a day, preorders topped 20,000 units, according to Hugging Face's Clem Delangue.

The Microducks are made by Pollen Robotics, a company Hugging Face acquired in 2025, which itself was bought by Nvidia in September. They're open source, meaning owners can program new tricks and share them with the community. The robots were trained using Nvidia's simulation technology, so they come with basic moves like walking and sitting. But the real appeal? They're adorable and fun for all ages—promotional videos show adults playing with them too.

Delangue thinks they could be the best-selling robot of the year, and not just for kids. With delivery expected by Christmas, they might become the holiday season's hottest gift. It's a lighthearted moment for the AI industry, which has been under fire for security issues. Sometimes, technology can just be playful and bring joy.

At a time when AI news often focuses on risks and cyberattacks, the Microduck reminds us that tech can also be delightful. Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, these little robots offer a taste of the future—one where robots are friendly companions, not just tools. So if you're looking for a unique gift, keep an eye out for these quacking cuties.