AIBO the Robot Dog that relieves the loneliness of nursing home residents

Sparky the Aibo: Robot Dogs & Other Robotic Pets

by: Pat Gaudette

Amazon Price: $25.04 (as of 07/12/2009)

Very nicely written and a cute book. It goes into each models of Aibo and their history. And, the writer's personal experiences with her Aibos. If you ever wonder why Aibo owners love their Aibo, read this book.

"Aibo is not a toy".

Pleo Dinosaur - A UGOBE Life Form

Amazon Price: $157.94 (as of 07/12/2009)

Pleo is a cunningly cute robotic toy that has a very "1.0" feel about it. For better and/or worse, you can tell that some envelopes are being pushed here. The baby dino can feel touches, knows when it is upside-down, and can "see" with a small camera in his snout. Supposedly it can hear but apparently not very well.

First the good news: Pleo behaves with a good degree of "intelligence". He will purr like a kitten and growl like a puppy; he responds to being petted or stroked under the chin. His reactions are a bit slow but generally appropriate. He won't walk off the edge of a table, although he *will* back off. He knows when something is in his mouth and will make feeding sounds or, if you jostle him, he will growl and play tug-of-war. His skill at tug-of-war is a highlight.

Also, if you decide to get a Pleo, be aware that the first few times you turn it on, it will be in a "newborn" state--sleepy and uncoordinated, wanting only to be petted. So some patience is required. It seems to take a few days for the robot to become fully active and more independant.

Tekno the Robotic Puppy - Silver

Amazon Price: $128.99 (as of 07/12/2009)

I'm a Senior and live in a building that does not allow pets of any kind. I have always had a dog and was just lost without a roommate to talk to. Yup, I talk to my little one often. I enjoy watching his walking around and even his whining. I received three of them(2 for other seniors, who enjoy them also)and there have been no complaints from anyone. Not even the management. Thanks.