Ville Magazine l Insider Access for City Lifestyle Nov/Dec / Holiday Issue 2016 | Page 14

TECH SPECS

Hello Mr. Roboto
written by Charity Mainville l photo cluise.com

It has been predicted that the artificial intelligence industry will skyrocket in 2017. As it advances,
artificial intelligence will incorporate emotional intelligence and the skills to replace jobs across
the world, making life a lot more convenient. Civilization may now spend time doing what it loves
instead of what it must. Self-driving cars, self-operating machines, robot housekeepers, and robot
lovers are being released this upcoming year, and that’s only the icing on the cake.

MINI ME
In 2013, Kirobo the humanoid was sent into space to keep
Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata company while aboard the
International Space Station for over 18 months. Starting next
year in Japan, he will be shrunk down to only 4” tall and available
to keep you company on Earth while driving. Rightfully named
Kirobo Mini, it can respond to human emotions while engaging
in conversation and moving its head and hands. It can also detect
if the driver is getting drowsy and tell the stereo to start playing
songs at high volume. For $390, drivers can buy a Kirobo Mini
and place their new best friend in the cup holder of their car.
www.toyota-europe.com

FREE FOLD
Folding laundry is a necessary yet tedious task. However, you
may now be able to give this chore to a machine. In 2017,
FoldiMate, a robotic clothes-folding machine, is due to be
released. It promises to not only fold your clothes but also
steam the vestments to reduce wrinkles. Additionally, FoldiMate
provides the option to spritz the clothes with a pleasant scent.
Desired buyers can register on FoldiMate’s website to be notified
when it goes on sale for $750 – $800.
www.foldimate.com

14 l VILLE l THE HOLIDAY ISSUE