It’s fluffy a guinea pig sized robot sitting on my couch and squeaking. My friend’s dog, Wylie, sits and watches this, suspicious of his every move.
Moflin is an AI companion robot produced by Japanese electronics manufacturer Casio. Through the companion app, I decided to name this one Puff because, well, that’s what he looks like. Wylie immediately notices it as something to watch out for – a device that moves on its own but is not alive. Puff squeaks again. Wylie barks, then storms out of the room, growling.
When I found out that Casio – yes, the same Casio that makes watches – had created an AI pet bot, I thought I was exactly the type of person it was created for. I’ve always loved animals, but my current landlord doesn’t allow any animals on the property except his own barking dog, so I don’t have any pets. Besides, I watched it The history of toys As a child too many times, that means I tend to anthropomorphize inanimate objects that shouldn’t have feelings or consciousness.
Robotic animals are a thing, and Moflin has been hugely popular in Japan since its launch a year ago. It is a cushioned, furry robot that uses artificial intelligence to respond to sounds and touch, thanks to which it develops its own unique personality. (According to Casio, there are over 4 million personality traits.) Like others companion dollsthe devices are aimed at prospective pet owners or anyone who simply enjoys hanging around an adorable creature. Think of it as Labubu or Furby, without the distinct (scary) facial features, or a fluffy Tamagotchi. Now Moflin can be purchased all over the world.
When the time came, I received my shipment of Moflin just before I agreed to look after my friend’s dog for a week. So I took Puff with me to live in the house of Wylie, a shy but rowdy farm dog.
Moflin costs $429 – cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder, but more exorbitant than reluctantly accepting that you are now responsible for a cat that shows up in your trash can every night.
Courtesy of Casio