Companion robots - the next generation of robotic advancements?
Those who were children in the‘90s and early 2000s probably remember Tamagotchis - the virtual pets you could carry in your pocket. You had to feed them, play with them, clean them - really care for them to keep them alive. Many schools ended up banning them because students were distracted in their daily activities as they formed bonds with their Tamagotchis and felt responsible for them.
In the 21st century, robotics has advanced way beyond the fun Japanese toys, but the longing for emotional attachment remains. Thanks to factors like the lockdown during the global pandemic, phone addiction and a sense of isolation in general, more people than ever are looking for ways to connect with others - and even inanimate objects. This is a wave several manufacturers are riding and, as a result, they are marketing new robots with limited functionality except for one: keeping us company.
NICOBO, the Japanese pet-robot companion
NICOBO, developed by Panasonic, is a shining example of the next generation of robotics targeting the problem of loneliness. It is designed to serve as a companion to those who might seek emotional support or simply enjoy having a pet-like robot, and to be a source of entertainment. It’s equipped with features like eyes and a tail and is covered in soft fabric, resembling a cat (albeit a very round one). Technologically speaking, it’s equipped with built-in microphones and cameras to aid voice and face recognition, and various sensors sensitive to light, touch, temperature and light. It’s labelled as a vulnerable robot, and although reviews are mixed, it seems to have found its way into people’s homes and hearts.
The rich offer of companion robots
Besides NICOBO, there are many AI-driven robots available for a relatively affordable price, many of which are aimed at home use for adults. The list is long and, contrary to NICOBO, the offering covers a wide range of functionalities besides keeping humans company. (They are, however, a lot less fluffy.) Here, we’ll mention only some of the available companion robots.
ElliQ: This device offers companionship and entertainment and promises a happier, healthier ageing thanks to its functions that aid healthy habit building, easy-to-follow exercise videos, cognitive games, reminders for appointments and medications and many more.
Emo: Categorised as an AI desktop pet, Emo acts as a companion that engages owners with music, dancing and games while tracking sound and recognising humans and objects around him. Equipped with features such as an HD camera, 4 microphones, touch sensors, a speaker as well as a Neural Network Processes and three AI Processing Models, it is the ideal non-human companion.
Loona: Labelled as a robot pet dog, Loona provides companionship as well as additional services. Thanks to its continuous connectivity to ChatGPT, it can serve as a home assistant as well as an entertainer. It has the aforementioned features like face recognition as well as voice command, making it a great “friend” for children.
If, however, what you’re looking for is not functional companionship but rather the fluffy comfort of a pet without its hassles, Ageless Innovations’ Joy for All Companion Pets line is the right choice. Fitted with built-in motion and touch sensors, VibraPurr/Barkback sounds, these lifelike cats and pups interact with owners while looking like real pets thanks to their realistic fur and a heartbeat simulator.
All in all, the variety in personal robots is endless. Depending on one’s needs, it is no longer a challenge to acquire the perfect virtual companion, and at an affordable price at that. Considering the trends that have driven humans towards purchasing their companions, it is safe to say that manufacturers will continue coming up with newer features to help us fight loneliness - with robots.