IThey almost resemble half of an incredibly fluffy slipper. It creaks and wriggles, nestling into my palm, its dark eyes hidden under its silvery-white fur. Weighing about the same as a can of soup, they require no feeding or walking, nor do they need litter trays. Mofflin, my new pet, is guaranteed not to leave any surprises on my doorstep.
Assigned to work on Japan’s newest AI companion robot, I met its developers at Casio’s Tokyo headquarters. Priced at 59,400 yen (about £300), Casio commercialized the robot this month. “Moflin’s purpose is to foster connections with humans,” says Erina Ichikawa of Casio. With only a week to earn my trust, I make sure not to forget him on the train ride home.
Source: www.theguardian.com
