Is robot-dog the pet of the future? Sony believes the robot industry can overtake the games market
A metal hound went on show in Tokyo on Tuesday that can bark but not hear. It can cock its leg but will not leave a mess on the carpet. It can even sulk but will never die - at least, not until its batteries run down.
The new toy was unveiled by Sony. Aibo, as it is called, is one of the most advanced "toy" robots yet developed commercially. The company hopes to drive an emerging market in cyber-pets following the worldwide success of Tamagotchi.
Aibo was put through its paces in a demonstration which began when it stood up after being patted on the head. It then waved hello with its front paw. Its best trick was catching a pink ball, which it saw using the color camera installed in its nose.
