Animal Charm
Best in Show
The newest technology causing a stir—and stealing hearts? Pet robots.
Lively but obedient, playful but responsive—and irresistibly cute. Nope, not the winners at the Westminster Dog Show, but a litter of robotic pets presented at the Consumer Electronics Show. We love our pooches at DP but with no need to be walked or fed—and mess free—could these five (alarmingly appealing?) tech pets persuade us to trade in the real thing?
Soon to be your most adorable accessory? Meet Mirumi, a furry robot that will cling onto your handbag, or arm. This soft, silent, baby-sloth-like critter with googly eyes is designed to “recreate people’s joyful experiences of noticing a human baby,” according to its creators.
Mirumi responds to humans by moving its head in several different ways to express its curiosity (turning to look; nodding), bashfulness (hiding its head), and “other baby-like qualities and emotions.”
Stay tuned. At the moment, Mirumi—expected to cost around $70 and likely offered in pink and gray—is just a prototype. Makers Japanese startup Yukai Engineering will begin crowdfunding later this year.
Though not quite so cuddly as Mirumi, smart petbot Loona has a lively, seemingly outgoing personality. Her LED screen face can show over 700 expressions, and she will play games, answer questions, and interact (even fist bump!) in response to voice commands. At just under seven inches tall, Loona is an “interactive companion that brings joy and memorable moments into the home, enhancing daily life,” according to developers KEYi Technology. From $499.90.(Accessories and outfits extra.)
Nékojita FuFu—also from Yukai Engineering—is neither playful nor cuddly but cute, nevertheless. This little feline fan gizmo will hook onto your cup and cool your coffee (or hot soup, or baby food . . .) to order. “We created Nékojita FuFu as a little personal meal partner,” says CMO Tsubsa Tominaga. It switches between various blowing modes such as full force “I’ve Got This!” and gentler “not Gonna Spill.” Pop it into your purse for your next Starbucks outing. Available later this year; around $25.
We’re not quite sure which animal Ropet most resembles—part dog, part lamb, part baby seal?—but its huge eyes have that “hug me, love me” appeal. Soft, warm, and fuzzy, Ropet is designed to provide emotional support. (And we all know how good pets are for our mental health.) It will look happy if you pet it, dance with you, and chat (well squeak) if connected to Wi-Fi. (Ropet can also be “shushed” if it gets too overexcited.)
The first Kickstarter is closed but Ropet costs from $299 (with a range of accessories and outfits also available.)
The most lifelike of canine companions on show, Jennie by TomBot, is designed to mimic a real puppy and provide companionship to those unable to care for a pet. Jennie wags her tail, responds to touch and voice—and barks, using sounds based on recordings of Labrador puppies. CEO Tom Stevens was inspired to create the pup after his mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and had to give up her beloved dog. The “first litter” is sold out but you can sign up on a wait list. Around $1,500.
Hero photo courtesy of Yukai Engineering Inc.
