Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Casio has introduced Moflin, a robotic pet created to offer comfort and calm through cuddles and simulated emotional interactions. Unlike other robotic pets like Sony’s Aibo, which follows users around, Casio Moflin is meant to be held and cuddled, with its design resembling a cross between a hamster and Star Trek’s Tribbles. Over time, the robot learns to recognize its owner and responds with unique sounds and movements to simulate a bond, setting it apart as a companion for emotional support rather than a plaything.
Developed in collaboration with Japanese startup Vanguard Industries and now manufactured by Casio, Moflin is available for preorder at ￥59,400 (about $398 USD) and is set to be released on November 7. Casio also offers a subscription service called Club Moflin for ￥6,600 (around $44 USD) per year, which provides perks like discounts on repairs and cleanings, as well as fur replacements.
Moflin’s appeal lies in its AI-driven ability to simulate personality and emotions. By interacting with its owner, Moflin learns to recognize them through their voice and touch, responding with unique sounds and movements meant to create the feeling of a close relationship. Over time, it develops a simulated emotional state, becoming happy and content with regular interaction, or stressed and anxious if neglected. However, these emotional states are only visible through a companion app, as the robot’s physical cues remain subtle.
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Designed to enhance mental wellness, Moflin’s movements are gentle and intended to mimic a small animal’s snuggling. It comes with a charging bed that resembles a place to sleep, adding to the illusion of being a living creature. Casio estimates that Moflin battery life lasts around five hours on a full charge, with a shorter nap charge of three and a half hours.
While the robot will develop its own simulated personality and emotions the longer users interact with it, Moflin is positioned as a next-generation companion for emotional well-being in today’s tech-driven world.
(Raidi/Agung)
