Eerie Yet Oddly Therapeutic Headless Cat Robot Was Built To Soothe Your Nerves
Can you imagine a future where beloved household pets are replaced by unfeeling, faceless, dander- and poop-free robots that mimic the movements of real animals?
That alternative could become a reality, thanks to Japanese robotics company YUKAI Engineering. Its newest product ‘Qoobo’ is a fluffy, headless, interactive therapy robot that allows owners to pet and cuddle their stress away; all you need is some electricity to power it up via USB port.
‘Qoobo’ might seem bizarre and perhaps even a little eerie, but it originates from a YUKAI employee’s innocuous desire to possess a cat substitute in her animal-free apartment—something that was allergy-free and could soothe after-work stress, perhaps even aiding depression and anxiety symptoms.
The robot responds to its owner’s touch by wiggling its tail at various intensities, depending on how you treat it and if you leave it alone. Engadget writer Richard Lai—owner of both a cat and dog—found the movements of ‘Qoobo’ surprisingly realistic. “Its wagging intensity increased as I petted it harder (my cat would eventually warn me with a bite),” he wrote.
‘Qoobo’ comes available in two colors—‘Husky Grey’ and ‘French Brown’. This unique robot will be available through crowdfunding later this year, and is slated to ship in June 2018. For now, check out the novel therapy robot below.
[via SoraNews24 and Engadget, video via YUKAI Engineering, images via Qoobo.info and video screenshot]
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