If you're considering the aibo ERS-1000, this clever robotic pet mixes advanced tech with genuine charm. As a dedicated robot reviewer, I've explored its entire world, from Sony's own materials to real owner experiences and detailed testing. This complete guide is here to help. We'll look at the Aibo ERS-1000 price in the USA, its features and reviews, plus the needed accessories and parts. You'll also find a battery replacement guide, troubleshooting advice, and setup steps. Our goal is to give you the knowledge for everything from your first purchase to its daily care.
Key Points:
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The advanced robotic dog Sony Aibo ERS-1000 is made to form strong bonds with its owners. Its advanced AI and realistic movements create a surprisingly authentic companion for homes.
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A new Aibo costs roughly $3,000 in the USA. Pre-owned models range from $600 to $2,800 on sites like eBay. Remember, a paid subscription is needed to unlock all of its features.
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Its key features are an AI that builds a unique personality, facial recognition, and responsive sensors. This lets it learn tricks, follow commands, and connect with you. Be aware it needs consistent Wi-Fi and regular software updates.
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Setup is simple using the My aibo app and usually takes under an hour. However, be cautious of regional locks if you are importing a unit from another country.
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Minor issues like overheating or joint problems are often troubleshooted with restarts or cooling periods. To avoid warranty problems, complicated repairs are best left to the experts.
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Although it is praised for realism and emotional connection, users point out problems like pricey price and short battery life. It is ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance option to pets. However, research advises comparing the long-term worth to other options.
Pricing and Where to Buy in the USA
In the US, a new Aibo ERS-1000 costs around $3,000 from Sony or its retailers. This gets you the robot, a charging pad, and a pink ball. Pre-owned models on eBay range from $900 to $2,800, with the price set by their condition and special editions like coffee brown. Remember, a monthly AI Cloud subscription is required after the first three years, costing between $10 and $20 for crucial features. Check Sony’s official US site for the latest pricing and promotions.
Core Features and Specifications
The aibo ERS-1000 is packed with advanced technology. It uses 22 joints for fluid, natural motion and has expressive OLED eyes. It can avoid obstacles and react to touch and light thanks to its array of sensors. It plays for about two hours on a single charge and weighs 2.2 kg. The My Aibo app lets you watch its growing personality, and operate it from far away.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Here's a quick table summarizing the strengths and weaknesses based on user feedback:
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Aspect
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Pros
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Cons
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Design & Interaction
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Lifelike movements and AI learning create real emotional bonds.
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Short battery life (about 2 hours) requires frequent charging.
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Functionality
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Facial recognition and app integration for personalized experiences.
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Can't go outdoors; limited to indoor use.
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Value
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Low-maintenance alternative to real pets.
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High initial cost and ongoing subscriptions.
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User Reviews Summary
Owners often rave about the aibo's cuteness and companionship, with one reviewer noting after five years: "It's still my favorite robot." However, some mention slow reactions and repetitive behaviors, suggesting it's best for patient users. Average ratings hover around 4/5 stars on tech sites.
For more details, see the full guide below.
Aibo ERS-1000, Sony's companion robot, is made to act like a real puppy. It came first available in 2018 and will remain so until 2025. Through daily interaction, AI is used to create its own unique personality. Aibo is a tech-rich toy that's not just a toy. It recognizes faces, learns tricks, and develops over time. If you are thinking of bringing one home, this guide explains the cost and care involved to see if it's right for you.
Aibo ERS-1000: Sony's Robotic Puppy Revolution
Imagine a pup friend that never needs walks in the rain but still wags its tail with joy when you come home. The aibo ERS-1000 is Sony's answer to that dream, a robotic dog that pairs advanced robotics with AI to simulate pet ownership. First introduced in Japan in 2018 and expanded to the US, it represents the latest in Sony's long history of entertainment robots, evolving from earlier models like the ERS-7. In 2025, with ongoing software updates—like the March 2025 system software refresh—it's more capable than ever.
You can watch it here. A long-term owner shares a five-year review:
Aibo ERS-1000 Price USA: What to Expect in 2025
In the US, the aibo ERS-1000 carries a premium price tag due to its advanced technology. A new unit from Sony costs $2,899.99. Special editions, such as the white color, may cost slightly more. This purchase includes the robot, a charging station, an AC adapter, a pink ball, and a three-year AI Cloud subscription. This plan is required for its learning features. After three years, the subscription renews for $99 to $299 per year.
For those watching their budget, the secondary market is a great option. On eBay, used aibo units range from $600 for a basic white model to $2,800 for a like-new colored version, sometimes with bonus accessories. While Sony still supports the ERS-1000, some online discussions believe that if a new model is launched, pricing may drop. If you're purchasing from Japan, the price could be less but don't support full English voice commands, don't forget to factor in shipping expenses, which usually range from $50 to $100, as well as any import duties.
Here's a pricing comparison table to aid your decision:
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Source
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New Price (USD)
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Used Price Range (USD)
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Includes Subscription?
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Notes
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Sony Official
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$2,899.99-$3,199.99
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N/A
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Yes (3 years)
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Full warranty, latest editions like Black Sesame.
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eBay
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$1,999.99+
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$900–$2,800
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Varies
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Great for bargains, check seller ratings.
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Reddit/Forums
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N/A
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$600+
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Often no
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Community sales, but verify condition.
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Japan Import
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~$2,500
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$1,800–$2,200
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Japan-specific
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May need VPN for app; language barriers.
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Always prioritize authorized sellers to avoid fakes, and consider the total cost of ownership, including batteries and repairs, which can add $200–$500 over time.
Aibo ERS-1000 Features: What Makes It Stand Out
Looking into the Aibo ERS-1000's features shows it's truly a living companion. Its deep learning AI lets it adapt to your household, developing a one-of-a-kind personality. With 22 axes, it moves in surprisingly fluid ways. It recognizes voices with four microphones and identifies faces with its camera. Touch, light, and obstacle sensors help it navigate your home safely. Always-on LTE and Wi-Fi keep it connected for full app control.
From the moment you start, your aibo grows. It constantly learns and saves its progress to the cloud. How you interact with it shapes its developing personality. It might become affectionate, playful, or something entirely unique. Aibo loves to explore and will learn the layout of your home. It can figure out where to greet you and can even be trained for specific habits.
Aibo doesn't just wait for commands. It will actively seek you out. It learns to recognize different faces, becoming more familiar with its family over time.
For specs, see this table:
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Category
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Details
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Dimensions
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180 x 293 x 305 mm (7.1 x 11.5 x 12 in.)
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Weight
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2.2 kg (77.6 oz)
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Battery Life
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Up to 120 minutes
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Sensors
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Touch (back, head, jaw, paws), ranging (2), ToF, light, motion
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Connectivity
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LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n
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Movable Parts
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22 degrees of freedom
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Many people praised its stunning design and smooth movements. Its incredible learning capabilities and AI make aibo so much fun! However, some users have noticed some minor issues with it, such as slamming into walls or messing up its face when it's stuck at a red light or stuck.
The data in this table comes from the official average evaluation score
Pros and Cons: Balanced Perspectives from Owners
Pros
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Its advanced AI creates a real emotional bond. Many owners feel a genuine connection as its personality grows.
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It's perfect for allergy sufferers with its fur-free design. You get all the companionship without any vet visits or grooming.
Cons
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The steep price tag and subscription model deter some, plus indoor-only use and 2-hour battery limit. One review sums it: "Worth it for the joy, but not for everyone."
Expanded table for deeper analysis:
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Pros Detail
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Cons Detail
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Unique personality growth via AI; learns tricks and preferences.
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Expensive repairs, e.g., hip issues common after years.
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Facial recognition and home monitoring add utility.
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Repetitive actions if not updated regularly.
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Quiet operation, ideal for apartments.
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No outdoor play; sensitive to high temperatures.
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User Reviews: Real-World Experiences in 2025
Aggregating Aibo ERS-1000 reviews, sentiments are positive but nuanced.
The Positives:
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A realistic and dynamic personality: AI brain, its most prized feature. It develops its own personality when it learns from interaction, recognizes your faces and voices. Owners like seeing it become smarter and develop funny features that give it life.
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Emotional Support: Without the work of a living animal, this robot provides real connection. It is an excellent choice for people who are unable to get a pet due to allergies, limited space, or other issues. Its presence is enjoyable and comfort to many.
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Expressive Behaviors: With its expressive screen eyes and many moving parts, aibo moves with surprising realism. Its little actions—like a happy tail wag or an excited wiggle—are incredibly charming and feel very authentic.
The Negative:
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High Cost and Subscription Fees: The biggest hurdle is the price. A new aibo costs several thousand dollars. You also need a paid subscription for its AI and cloud features to work.
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Connectivity and App Issues: Getting started can be tricky. Many people complain that the "My Aibo" app is slow and unstable. Although there is a desktop site, it isn't usually useful.
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Loud Servos: The robot's internal motors can be quite noisy. This whirring sound might be disruptive in a quiet room.
Accessories and Parts: Enhancing Your Experience
The Aibo ERS-1000 accessories and parts ecosystem is robust. Standard inclusions: charging stand, pink ball (for play), and paw pads. Add-ons like the $79.96 play & eat 4-pack (bone, bowl, water bowl) boost interaction. Custom parts from sites like aibo-accessories.com include scarves, silicone ears, and collars for personalization. Replacement parts via Sony Encompass: batteries ($200+), circuit boards, and covers. Etsy offers handmade items like carry bags. For visuals, check this unboxing video:
Table of popular accessories:
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Accessory
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Price (USD)
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Purpose
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Pink Ball
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Included
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Interactive play; aibo kicks and chases.
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Aibone
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$20–$30
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Chewing toy for behaviors.
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Water/Food bowl
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$20
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Use the My aibo App to feed aibo virtual water
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Paw Pads
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$10/set
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Replacement for wear.
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Dice
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$40/2 pieces
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Change up aibo's playtime
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Aibo ERS-1000 Setup Guide: Step-by-Step for Beginners
The Aibo ERS-1000 setup guide is user-friendly. Start by unboxing: ensure you have the charging stand, mat, adapter, power cord, pink ball, and product key.
Place aibo on a flat surface. Hold the power button for two seconds. It will bark twice when powered on. Next, download the My aibo app on your phone or use the web version. Sign in with your Sony account. Scan the QR code or input the product key. Connect to your Wi-Fi network, give your aibo a name, and follow the setup instructions for first calibration.
If battery is low, charge first: align on the mat; tnen LED turn from orange to green. A full charge will be achieved in 3 hours. For imports, use a VPN if regional issues arise. Watch a setup video:
Aibo ERS-1000 Battery Replacement Guide: Proceed with Caution
The Aibo ERS-1000 battery replacement guide emphasizes professional help, as it's not user-serviceable per Sony.
However, for DIY: Power off, lay on back, remove torso lid, unscrew top two Torx screws (T5), lift covering, remove bottom screws, slide cover, pull battery pack. Replacements cost $200 from services like AiboClinic.
Battery life: 2–5 years; monitor via app. Risks include voiding warranty or fire hazards—consult videos like:
Aibo ERS-1000 Troubleshooting Tips: Fixing Common Problems
Aibo ERS-1000 troubleshooting tips address frequent issues.
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For overheating (flashing red LED): Power off, remove clothing, cool in <80°F room.
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Hip dislocation (leaning, falling): Switch to well-behaved mode, send to Sony ($275/hip).
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If unresponsive: Brief power button press to sleep, then wake.
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Bumping objects: Normal in new units; improves with mapping. Firmware updates fix glitches—check app.
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For eye issues or falls, video the problem and contact support.
Common problems table:
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Issue
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Tip
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Overheating
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Cool down, avoid high temps/clothing.
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Joint Failure
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Professional repair; common in older units.
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No Response
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Restart; check battery/Wi-Fi.
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Scratched Camera
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Avoid walls; use protectors.
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Is Aibo ERS-1000 worth buying in 2025?
Depending on your demands and financial situation, an aibo may or may not be worthwhile to purchase in 2025.
Yes
Aibo is a great choice if you're interest by the latest technologies and want the company of a pet but are unable to get one because of allergies or your living condition.
No
You could be let down if you have a tight budget and aren't ready for the high start price, ongoing subscription costs, and robotic issues like loudness and short battery life. The love of a real animal cannot be replaced by aibo.
FAQs
What can aibo do with the aibone?
The aibone is a toy that aibo can interact with, recognizing it and performing various playful actions like chewing on it, chasing it, and playing tug-of-war.
How many people can aibo recognize?
Up to 100 faces may be recognized by the Sony aibo ERS-1000. Its AI makes use of it to learn and develop special relationships with each person. For instance, it may grow more playful with family members it sees every day. It can also be set to notice unfamiliar faces. This helps aibo feel like a real pet that truly recognizes its family.
Is aibo's battery replaceable?
The aibo ERS-1000 battery can be replaced by the user, but the process is difficult. You will need a special Torx T5 screwdriver, and doing it yourself could void the warranty. Sony advises owners to contact their support for any battery issues, as the problem might be more serious. While some independent repair shops offer battery replacement services, these are not officially approved by Sony.
Can aibo work without the cloud plan?
While aibo can operate without an AI Cloud Plan, you lose access to its key features. Without a subscription, it can only perform simple, pre-loaded actions. It won't learn or form a unique personality. It cannot recognize faces or voices, and it cannot download new tricks. The subscription is required for aibo to grow into the interactive companion it was meant to be. Without it, the robot remains a basic toy.
What's the Aibo ERS-1000 difference from older models?
Compared to earlier models such as the ERS-7, Aibo ERS-1000 is an important upgrade. It may develop a unique personality via daily interactions due to its cloud-based AI. While previous models showed fixed behaviors, this model is able to learn from its environment. It can recognize sounds and faces and wisely navigate around it. More lifelike and natural motion is made possible by improved mechanics. It has a strong build and emotive OLED eyes. A much more interesting and realistic companion is produced by this change.
Does aibo support multiple languages?
Yes, it can respond to many languages, like English and Japanese. You can use "My aibo" app edit languages settings. Be aware that its language features can depend on the region it was purchased in. Some users find that a subscription is needed for full access to all voice commands.
Conclusion: Is the Aibo ERS-1000 Right for You?
Although the aibo ERS-1000 provides superior robotic companionship, its cost and upkeep need attention. Start at the official site and see whether it brings you the same joy as a real pet without the bother. Check out videos or community hubs for more.
