"Moflin is an AI companion robot made by the Japanese electronics manufacturer Casio. Via the companion app, I have chosen to name this one Puff, because-well-that is what it looks like. Wylie immediately clocks it as something to be wary of, a device that moves on its own but is not alive. Puff squeaks again. Wylie barks, then runs out of the room, growling."
"When I found out Casio-yes, the same Casio that makes watches-had made an AI pet bot, I figured I was exactly the type of person it was made for. I've always loved animals, but my current landlord does not allow any pets on the premises except her own yappy dog, so I am pet-less. Also, I watched Toy Story way too many times as a kid, which means I am predisposed to anthropomorphizing inanimate objects that aren't supposed to have feelings or consciousness."
Casio released Moflin, a soft, furry AI companion robot about guinea-pig sized that reacts to sounds and touch and develops a unique personality from interactions. The device has over four million personality traits and has been popular in Japan since its launch a year ago. Moflin targets would-be pet owners and people who want a cute companion without a real animal. The robot costs $429 and is now available internationally. Real pets can react with suspicion or fear to Moflin's movements and sounds, causing avoidance or barking in dogs. The robot resembles toys like Furby or Tamagotchi but with subtler features.
Read at WIRED
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