That sounds like a **defrosting tray**, also called a **thawing plate**. An older version was sold as **“Miracle Thaw”**—a black-coated aluminum tray advertised with the same ice-cube demonstration you remember. [FTC description](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/1996/12/ftc-freezes-ad-claims-thawing-trays-pulls-plug-ad-claims-thermo-electric-coolers)

It works through **heat conduction**. The room-temperature metal transfers heat into the ice quickly. It feels cold to your hand because it also draws heat from your warmer skin.

Search for **“aluminum defrosting tray”** or **“Miracle Thaw tray.”**

For meat, the ice-cube demonstration exaggerates the practical benefit: a thick piece takes much longer to thaw internally. Thaw meat in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave; counter thawing can allow bacteria to multiply. [Iowa State University guidance](https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2022/05/31/defrosting-trays/)