The MSN i-Buddy is an emotional wreck. Connect him to your USB port, then get in touch with someone on MSN Messenger. When that person comes online, your mini-bud goes to work and lets you know. Every time your friend sends you an emoticon, he responds by colors, flapping wings, body movement, and a thumping “heart.” Get two and you have a veritable emoticon party.

We had a lot of fun playing with the gadget and our cat seemed to think he was there just for her. Note that the most response we got was when we were sent an angry emoticon. We thought the thing would fall off our desktop! You can find the i-Buddy at Firebox for $24.95. While they are temporarily out, you can pre-order to receive one from the next batch.

(Thanks, Jen and Kent, and Avril!)