Welcome to the Valley of the Creepy AI Dolls
Social robots for older adults might not be new, but now they’re recording, listening — and talking back.
Last week at Mobile World Congress, a Korean company introduced a $1,800 ChatGPT-enabled companion doll designed for older adults. Despite its eerie appearance, the doll aims to combat loneliness by providing interactive conversations and health reminders to its owners, particularly those in long-term care facilities.
With a language model inside, the doll can engage in conversations and assist with medication schedules and meal reminders. The companion app and web platform allow caretakers to monitor the device remotely, offering some relief for the loneliness epidemic affecting various demographics.
While there is potential for these AI dolls to alleviate feelings of isolation, experts like Elizabeth Necka from the American National Institute on Aging urge caution. The use of such technology, especially in nursing homes facing staffing shortages, presents both opportunities and challenges in addressing social connection needs.
The market for social robots is thriving globally, with Japan leading the trend. Companies like Lovot and Qoobo have capitalized on the demand for cuddly companion bots, although cultural acceptance varies. Despite the industry’s infancy, the integration of generative AI into everyday devices suggests a growing interest in conversational AI solutions.
According to Lilian Hung, an assistant professor at the University of British Columbia, the industry is still navigating market dynamics while witnessing significant growth. As these AI dolls become more pervasive, their impact on addressing loneliness and social interaction needs will become more apparent.
In an age where technology continues to evolve, the emergence of AI-enabled companions raises questions about the role of such devices in enhancing human well-being. While the future of social robots remains uncertain, their potential to provide comfort and companionship in various settings is a promising development in the quest to alleviate loneliness.
