Companion robot

A companion robot is built for comfort, not work. It does not vacuum or carry things. Its job is to be held, talked to and looked after.

Most look like animals: a cat that purrs when stroked, a puppy with a heartbeat, a baby seal that turns toward its name. Simple ones run on batteries and repeat a few reactions. Pricier ones walk, learn tricks and remember their owner.

Nursing homes use them for residents with dementia who can no longer care for a real pet. Results vary: some people bond with them right away, others lose interest within days.