In Japan, robot dogs are for life -- and death


Robot dogs, "Aibo" peform in the dancing contest during the Robot Athlete Cup competiton in Yokohama on January 27, 2013. The robots compete in six categories including dancing, autonomy beach flag, autonomy 20-metre walking and free performance in the competition. AFP

The company kept its “AIBO Clinic” open until March 2014, but then -- politely -- told dedicated and loving owners that they were on their own.  For Hideko Mori, 70, that nearly spelled disaster.

Mori has had her AIBO for around eight years. She enjoys the conversations she has with it, and thinks it far more convenient than a real puppy. 

Subscribe or renew your subscriptions to win prizes worth up to RM68,000!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Robot dog , Japan , AI , life , death

   

Next In Regional

KL in 50th spot as London crowned world's best city for 10th consecutive year
Malaysia commends Laos for successful Asean 2024 chairmanship
Supply chain snags: Airlines in Malaysia, Thailand among those affected as travel demand rebounds
41 passengers injured as Hong Kong ferry bumps into pier on Central’s waterfront
DPM Zahid emphasises shared goals in meeting with Philippines President Marcos
Malaysia’s strategies as Asean chair in 2025 focus on regional value chains, says Anwar
Asean Foreign Ministers' meeting kicks off in Laos ahead of 44th and 45th Asean Summits
Asean must remain neutral to boost regional investment, says Tengku Zafrul
Engine issues force Cathay Pacific to inspect A350 fleet, cancel flights
Indonesian, Malaysian troops celebrate unity at border in honour of Malaysia's National Day

Others Also Read