Artificial Intelligence: A soft toy capable of expressing emotions? [VIDÉO]

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, even in toys and stuffed animals. In Japan, Casio is preparing to launch a wonderful plush toy equipped with intelligence that allows it to adapt over time to the behavior of its owner, whether he is happy or sad.

This soft toy called Moflin, which resembles a guinea pig, is aimed more at adults, and serves as emotional support. She actually has the ability to communicate with them through different emotions (joy, sadness, stress, etc.). This is characterized by head movements and making small sounds.

Therefore, the Mofflin can change its expression according to its environment and its relationship with its owner. It interacts like a real pet and over time learns to adapt to the behavior of the person who accompanies it. The idea is that as the days go by, he can learn how to recognize and interact with his owner better, and share his joys and sorrows with him. Casio even explained that its robot seeks to provide comfort to lonely people.

It will go on sale in Japan in early November 2024 for 59,400 yen (about $545 CAD). Even if there is a small chance of one day finding this product outside of Japan, it may herald a future trend of so-called “smart” soft toys, capable of real interaction with their owners by “learning” with them day after day how to handle them. Behave.

Spiritually speaking, Mofflin offers almost the same therapeutic effect as the cat robot Qoobo, which appeared a few years ago, in the form of a vibrating pillow. He also comes straight from Japan, and is capable of wagging, wagging his tail, and even purring.