I must admit when I first saw it I had my doubts..
It reminded me of a rowdy cartoon robot and I set it aside for later. But, as the need arose for a stationary place to set my phone to make a Zoom call....I pulled it out of the box. 
Now my mini flexible tripod is a trusty companion. Tucked in its own spot on my counter, I pull it out daily for Zoom calls, FaceTime and when I’m chatting with friends in speaker phone. 
I appreciate its flexibility... and in fact, now, it’s knobbly look!