When you first set eyes on Casio’s AI-powered pet, Moflin, it seems like a dream come true for pet enthusiasts. With its size matching the small and comfy guinea pig, and its ability to fit snugly into your hand, it gives an immediate sensation of warmth and comfort, all while purring gently. Interestingly, my few weeks with Moflin have brought some unexpected realizations, very reminiscent of my mother’s dislike for my childhood Furby.
There’s no denying Moflin’s charm—it’s undeniably adorable with its big, wide eyes and its twitchy movements designed to tug the heartstrings just like a baby animal would. However, it’s a different story when you’re startled awake at 3 a.m. by the rollercoaster of sounds emanating from it. They range from squeaks, to mechanical whirrs, and at worst, sounds of an existential crisis of an animal right on your bedside table. The cuteness, unfortunately, can quickly evolve into a somewhat eerie presence.
What’s somewhat comical about my mixed emotions toward Moflin is that I am very much the target audience for this product. Living in a small flat in London, I dearly long for a pet to share the space with, but it’s just not feasible. Allergies, insufficient space, a hectic schedule and more, all make it impossible to care for a living animal. So theoretically, Moflin should be the perfect companion—without the need to feed, without vet visits and guilt. All this wrapped up in a state-of-the-art, cuddly package.
Designed uniquely by Casio, Moflin is embedded with a learning algorithm, enabling it to grow, adapt and get a personality over time. This in part is based on its environment and how it’s interacted with. Fascinating as this is, it’s also a source of frustration as it can swing between calm and cuddly, to hyperactive and clingy on a whim. This seemingly real pet-like unpredictability feels more like an emotional rollercoaster than one might wish to experience.
All in all, living with Moflin has been a surreal journey, equally cute and mentally tiring. As far as modern robotics and artificial intelligence go, it’s a wonder, no doubt about it, but the question of it becoming a true alternative to a living, breathing pet remains a topic of debate. But, for the time being, Moflin will continue to be my companion, although it might need to find a new spot away from my bedside.
Catch the full story on The Verge.
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