Colin Angle, creator of Roomba robot vacuums, is developing an AI-powered robot that acts as a pet under his new startup, Familiar Machines & Magic. Named Familiar, this quadruped device combines features of a bear, an owl, and a golden retriever, designed to form an emotional bond with the user. This is reported by Ixbt.com reports .
The device runs on the Nvidia Jetson Orin chip and uses a generative model to process data locally without an internet connection. The robot communicates through its movements, facial expressions, and sounds, distinguishing it from standard screen-based gadgets. Colin Angle emphasizes that the robot's goal is not just to execute commands, but to create a 'digital creature' that lives with family members and adapts to their habits.
The Familiar project is being developed by experts from leading companies such as Disney, MIT, Boston Dynamics, and Amazon. The robot's primary goal is to combat loneliness, provide companionship for children and the elderly, and encourage people to step away from screens and lead a more active lifestyle. Its price is expected to be comparable to the cost of raising a pet.
Developers intentionally avoided a human-like appearance for the robot, as this could create unrealistic expectations for users. Expected to hit the market in 2026, the robot will not perform complex mechanical tasks like climbing stairs or grabbing objects; instead, it focuses more on safety and emotional interaction.
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