Robo-pets don’t shed, but can they steal your heart? Let’s find out...
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What if I tell you your next pet might not need food, walks...or even a heartbeat! Sounds crazy? It’s already happening.
Meet Champak, the BCCI's robotic dog that's stealing hearts at IPL matches. This AI-powered pup isn’t just a mascot, it’s a cheerleader, a high-tech entertainer with cameras, agility and charm. You can often see it walking, playing and even interacting with cricket stars and fans during the matches.
Champak isn’t alone. Around the world, robot pets are growing smarter, more affectionate and increasingly lifelike. They respond to touch, recognise faces and learn from their owners. Some even learn to “love”.
Why robotic pets?
Tech Magic: They walk, run, obey commands and adapt to your habits, just like Champak does on the cricket field
Best for busy lives: No vet visits, no allergies, no mess, ideal for urban living
Ethical & therapeutic: A cruelty-free alternative that comforts the elderly and kids
Robot pets, real bonds
There are real-life stories where people have formed deep connections with robotic pets, especially seniors and patients. At Hospice of the Piedmont, Gloria, 88, with Alzheimer’s, adored her robotic cat, “Kitty Misty”. Its lifelike purring eased her anxiety, replacing restless habits with nurturing care.
Similarly, Abby Denby, Chief Clinical Officer at the same centre, saw her dementia-stricken father bond with a robotic dog. It calmed his agitation without medication. Many army veterans at a medical centre in Virginia, US, treat their robotic pets like real companions.
Studies confirm robotic pets reduce stress and loneliness. More than gadgets, they offer genuine emotional support, proving technology can heal hearts.
Top robo-pals making waves
- Sony’s Aibo (Robotic dog)
Latest model: Aibo ERS-1000
Price: Rs 2.45 lakh ($2,899)
Features: Learns owner’s habits, responds to touch and “expresses emotions” through LED eyes
Why it’s popular: One of the most advanced consumer robotic pets with self-charging and cloud AI learning
- MarsCat (Robotic feline)
Developed by: Elephant Robotics
Price: Rs 1.18 lakh ($1,399)
Features: Purrs, plays and reacts to touch like a real cat, without the litter box
Standout trait: Fully programmable, tech enthusiasts can customise behaviours
- Lovot (Cuddly emotional robot)
From: Japan’s Groove X
Price: Rs 42,200 ($499)
Unique selling point: Designed for emotional comfort, with warmth sensors and big, blinking eyes that trigger caregiving instincts
Ideal for: Seniors and children needing companionship
- Unitree Go1 (Robo dog)
Made by: Unitree Robotics
Price: Rs 2.28 lakh ($2,700 onwards)
Why it stands out: High-speed movement (up to 17 mph), obstacle avoidance and follow-mode
Bonus: Affordable versions on the way
The paw-some future of robo pets
Though the affection of real animals feels deeper because it is rooted in consciousness, not code, robotic pets still shine as alternatives for those who can’t care for living animals.
Whether it’s a therapy bot soothing patients in hospitals or a digital pup waiting eagerly at home, these high-tech pets are rewriting the rules of companionship. And with Champak’s viral IPL moment, it’s clear that they’re not just gadgets, they’re heart-stealing superstars, blending cutting-edge tech with emotional charm.
So, if you’ve ever wished for a pet that never sheds, doesn’t beg for walks, but still greets you with a happy tail wag, your dream is about to come true. The future of furry (or metallic) friendship is here and it will soon be more affordable than you think.
Cyber-pulse: The robotic pet market is set to hit $4.5 billion by 2030. Would you get one?
