Sony is halting sales of its robotic puppy 'aibo' in Japan, marking the end of an era for loyal fans of the high-tech toy. The announcement comes eight years after the latest model of the interactive android pet became an instant hit.
A Brief History of 'aibo'
The ERS-1000 model of aibo, a 30-centimeter long hound with flapping ears, eyes that show various emotions, and a nose camera, charmed customers on its launch in 2018, clocking up 20,000 sales in the first six months. This was a big comeback for Sony's robot dog, which first came out in 1999. Over the years, numerous models were released, with more than 150,000 units sold. However, by 2006, Sony discontinued aibo due to a tough business environment, considering it a frivolous luxury.
Current Developments
Sony said in a short statement that Japan sales of the current ERS-1000 model will be discontinued once stock runs out. Services such as access to tech support, replacement parts, and subscriptions to online cloud plans to store the robodog's memories will be maintained.
Fan Reactions and Future Prospects
The company did not immediately respond to questions about plans for a potential new generation of aibo or on sales in the United States, where it retails for more than $3,000. In Japan, fans had a vocal reaction to the news. X user Yachi wrote, 'I've been in a daze ever since I saw the announcement. Until more information comes out, I need to be careful not to mess up my daily life from overthinking.' Another user, Yusuke Ando, commented, 'So it's over already? It didn't last until the golden age of physical AI.' Daiyamondo suggested, 'Next time you develop one, could you make it half the size, and cat-shaped?'
