If you thought the Anvesha Satellite (EOS-N1) Mission was the only thing worth tracking this week, think again. While ISRO is prepping for space, the tech world in Las Vegas is currently melting down over a $9 candy. The Lollipop Star CES 2026 debut has officially become the most controversial “happening” on Twitter (X), and not because it’s good.
Winning the unofficial “Worst in Show” award from several tech critics, this Akon-backed musical lollipop is being called everything from a “plastic waste nightmare” to a “dental disaster.” But is it actually a scam, or just misunderstood Gen-Z bait?
How Does the Lollipop Star Actually Work?
The most common question on X (Twitter) right now is: “How can a candy play Ice Spice in my head?” The answer is Bone Conduction Technology.
- The Science: Instead of sending sound waves through the air to your eardrum (like normal headphones), the Lollipop Star sends micro-vibrations through your teeth and jawbone directly to your inner ear (cochlea).
- The Experience: When you suck or bite the lollipop, the music becomes crystal clear inside your head. If you take it out of your mouth, the sound almost disappears for everyone else.
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The Twitter Verdict: Genius or “Too Much Tech”?
The discussions are wild. On one side, tech enthusiasts are calling it a “Genius use of bone conduction for kids’ snacks.” On the other side, the “Meme-verse” is having a field day.
- @TechGuru: “The audio quality is surprisingly decent, but the sticky fingers are a dealbreaker. 7/10.”
- @GenZ_Vibes: “Wait, so I can listen to music in class and my teacher will just think I’m eating candy? Say less.”
Watch the Engadget team struggle to talk while biting down on the Akon-flavored Lollipop Star. Is the 'muffled' sound really worth $9, or is this just more CES e-waste?
Why the Musical Lollipop Akon Partnership is Under Fire
The hype started when Akon was spotted sucking on a Lollipop Star to listen to his own tracks. On the surface, it sounds futuristic. In reality, the internet is calling out the gimmick.
- The “Scam” Vibe: Critics on Reddit (r/Anticonsumption) are pointing out that once the sugar is gone, you’re left with a plastic stick filled with a lithium battery and a circuit board that goes straight into the trash.
- The Audio Quality: While the brand claims “premium sound,” early testers say it’s muffled, quiet, and requires you to wear earplugs just to hear the lyrics clearly.
How Does a Singing Lollipop Work? (The Science of Vibration)
To understand why people are skeptical, you have to know how does a singing lollipop work. It uses bone conduction candy technology.
- The Handle: A small electronic module in the stick generates vibrations.
- The Teeth: When you bite down on the hard candy, those vibrations travel through your molars.
- The Skull: The vibrations bypass your eardrums and hit your inner ear (cochlea) directly.
While bone conduction technology is used in high-end military gear and hearing aids, using it for a disposable $8.99 snack has raised massive “e-waste” red flags in 2026.
The Hidden Danger: Your Dentist’s Nightmare
Beyond the tech, the Lollipop Star CES 2026 is facing heat from health experts. To hear the music clearly, you are encouraged to bite down and hold the sugar against your teeth for 10–15 minutes.
- Enamel Erosion: Prolonged exposure to sugar and acids is a fast track to cavities.
- The “Vibration” Factor: Some users reported a “tingling” headache after using it for a full song.
Lollipop Star vs. Traditional Headphones
| Feature | Lollipop Star | Normal Earbuds |
| Audio Tech | Bone Conduction | Air Conduction |
| Battery Life | N/A (Disposable) | 4-6 Hours |
| Flavor | Watermelon, Mango, Strawberry | Plastic/Silicone |
| Price | $8.99 (₹750 approx) | $50 – $200 |
Is it Worth the Hype?
Honestly? No. The Lollipop Star is the definition of CES 2026 weirdest gadgets—it exists because it can, not because it should. While the tech is “cool” for exactly five seconds, the environmental impact of millions of these plastic sticks ending up in landfills is a heavy price to pay for a novelty Akon song.
If you really want to see cutting-edge Indian tech, skip the candy and read our update on the ISRO PSLV-C62 launch date where real innovation is happening.
The Final Verdict for Visitors
The Lollipop Star CES 2026 might be trending, but it’s a “Skip” for anyone who cares about their teeth or the planet. It’s a viral moment that will likely be forgotten by the time the next DRDO spy satellite hits orbit.
What do you think? Is this the future of entertainment or just expensive trash? Let’s argue in the comments below!
