sounds. In addition, two tiny, TV-like OLED displays are utilized
for aibo’s eyes, giving the appearance of blinking and closing.
By combining these technologies together, aibo is able to detect
words of praise, smiles, head and back scratches, petting and
more, allowing it to learn and remember what actions make its
owners happy.
The result is that as aibo interacts with people over time, its
behavior slowly changes and adapts in response to its unique
environment. No two aibo companion robots develop the same
way. Each owner’s approach to raising their aibo shapes its
personality, behavior and knowledge. Over time, aibo continues
to learn and develop as its owner’s approach to nurturing
gradually shapes its personality. aibo will even learn new tricks
through interactions with its owner, other aibo robotic dogs and
different events.
The team overseeing Sony’s robotic companion business in
the U.S. is located right here in San Diego. Michiko Araki, vice
president and head of corporate marketing at Sony Electronics,
says that making aibo look and behave like a real dog was a key
design goal.
“This is truly a one-of-a-kind product designed to connect with
its owners on an emotional level,” Araki shared with Giving Back
Magazine. “aibo’s charming personality and ability to intelligently
interact with family members help to create a personal bond
that’s very much like a bond we develop with real pets. To me,
aibo is much more than a robotic pup. It is a reflection of Sony’s
commitment to creating products that not only entertain people,
but also enrich people’s lives and provide social value.”
According to Araki, Sony is continuing to develop and improve
its sensor, robotics and artificial intelligence technologies with the
idea of creating other types of intelligent robots in the future. In
the meantime, aibo will continue digging its way into the hearts of
animal lovers and those needing a new friend. Fortunately, this is
the only digging owners need to worry about.
us.aibo.com
JULY 2019 | GBSAN.COM 35