CES 2026: AI companion robots offer emotional support

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, companies demonstrated companion robots and pet-like devices designed for emotional interaction, with examples including Ludens AI's Cocomo and PETKIT's AI pet-care ecosystem. Coverage notes potential benefits for loneliness alongside concerns about ethics, privacy, cost, and supply chains.

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, exhibitors presented companion robots and pet-like devices that bring AI into physical, interactive forms. These devices are described by coverage as prioritizing personality and emotional interaction rather than household utility. Reported examples include Ludens AI's Cocomo and Inu and PETKIT's integrated pet-care products. Media reports and social posts note both interest in reducing loneliness and concerns about ethics, privacy, and accessibility. Notable points: - Companies showcased small companion robots and pet-like devices designed for touch, voice interaction, and adaptive behavior. - Ludens AI's Cocomo was reported as using heated surfaces and learning user preferences to create a comforting interaction; Ludens AI's Inu was also highlighted in live coverage. - PETKIT demonstrated an AI-powered pet-care ecosystem, including feeders that use visual AI to recognize multiple animals. - Coverage from outlets such as The Verge, CNET, TechNode and Dataconomy emphasized emotional focus while also noting questions about ethics and long-term effects. - Social posts on X amplified demonstrations and user reactions, with some viral clips and some expressed skepticism about replacing human or animal bonds. Summary: These CES demonstrations point to growing technical maturity and market interest in AI companions that prioritize emotional interaction and integration with smart-home systems. Observers report potential for reduced loneliness alongside persistent concerns about ethics, privacy, cost, and supply-chain limits. Undetermined at this time.