Sony has discontinued sales of its robotic puppy 'aibo' in Japan, marking the end of the line for the AI-powered companion that first launched in 2018. The company confirmed that it will cease production of the dog-like robot, which was designed to learn and develop a personality over time through artificial intelligence.
End of an era for a beloved robot
The aibo, which means 'companion' in Japanese, was reintroduced in 2018 after a 12-year hiatus. The original aibo debuted in 1999 and was discontinued in 2006. The new version featured advanced AI, internet connectivity, and the ability to recognize its owner's voice and face. Despite its high price tag of around 198,000 yen (about $1,800), it gained a loyal following.
Sony cited a shift in business strategy and the need to focus on other areas as reasons for the discontinuation. The company will continue to provide support and repairs for existing aibo units for a limited time.
Impact on fans and collectors
The news has disappointed aibo enthusiasts, many of whom treat the robots as family members. Some owners have expressed concerns about the long-term availability of replacement parts and software updates. Sony has promised to honor existing warranties and service contracts.
According to industry analysts, the aibo was a niche product that never achieved mass-market success, but it showcased Sony's innovation in robotics and AI. The discontinuation reflects the challenges of commercializing consumer robots.
