The 2026 edition of CES promises to highlight innovative developments in robotics. Although certain firms are developing humanoid assistants for practical tasks, a notable trend involves machines focused primarily on providing endearing companionship.
At the event, the Japanese firm Ludens AI is demonstrating a duo of appealing robotic friends. One is Cocomo, a self-navigating pet robot that trails users throughout the home and reacts to spoken commands and physical contact. Featuring a soft, oval form, the model displayed sported an orange outfit with ear-like features resembling a stuffed bear. It navigates using wheels, though it includes small limbs for handheld transport.
Cocomo's surface is engineered to mimic human warmth at 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, potentially warming to 102 degrees during close interactions such as embraces, according to Ludens. The robot communicates via humming tones and noises instead of verbal language, while adapting to user behaviors.
The noisy setting limited demonstrations of its features, but Ludens explains that Cocomo forms connections gradually with owners. It employs unplanned movements, mirroring actions, and subtle prompts to discover elements that amuse, soothe, or delight users.
Details on Cocomo's cost or release date remain undisclosed by Ludens, though a signup list exists for notifications about an upcoming crowdfunding effort.
Additionally, Ludens presented Inu, a compact and endearing device termed a 'desktop alien pupu.' Unlike mobile units, Inu is intended for stationary placement on workspaces to offer presence during professional activities. It responds to sounds and motions, with a tail that sways upon hearing voices or feeling touches, and a solitary eye that simulates blinking.
A crowdfunding initiative for Inu is scheduled by Ludens for later in the year.