Hug Bots

With large attentive eyes and a plush body that’s warm to the touch, Lovot was designed to engage human emotions. Under the cuddly exterior is a well-thought-out robot with a trio of cameras — 180-degree, depth and temperature — to map and navigate its environment. The clever A.I. can remember as many as 1,000 people and distinguish up to 100 at the same time. “This robot won’t do any of your work,” says Kaname Hayashi, Formula 1 racecar designer and Lovot’s creator. “In fact, it might just get in the way. Everything about this robot is designed to create attachment.” Weighing in at just over 6 pounds, similar to an infant, Lovot is designed to be held. Its body is covered in more than 50 sensors that detect touch. Treat it roughly and it will remember and avoid you next time; cuddle it, and it’ll fall asleep on your lap; Lovot.Life.