Have you ever wondered how it feels to have a loyal companion like our dog? Well, if you have no such real thing, Tombot can still provide a true friend for your mental health thanks to Jennie, an AI-powered pet robot that looks like a puppy.
According to its makers, Jennie is not merely a robotic Labrador retriever puppy but a lifelike comrade; it has been engineered to lift the weight from lonely, anxious, and exhausted minds affiliated with persons suffering from dementia and mild cognitive impairments.
How the Jennie Project Started
Jennie is a creation born out of a very personal story. The founder of Tombot, Tom Stevens, saw firsthand the emotional impact of having to rehome his mother's dog as her dementia advanced. The loss of the pet left her with increased feelings of isolation and depression.
Recognizing the widespread need for a solution, Stevens set out to develop a robotic companion capable of delivering the emotional benefits of pet ownership—minus the challenges of caring for a live animal.
Jennie's Realistic Look Will Make You Feel Owning a Real Dog
The incredibly realistic look of Jennie is not only a collective effort with Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the genius behind the Muppets. This collaboration guarantees that the robotic puppy stays true to the essence of a real Labrador retriever in all aspects, making it an entertaining and touching toy for all.
Above all these descriptions, Jennie's key features include:
- Interactive Touch Sensors: These are placed strategically across Jennie's body, so the robot dog realistically responds to petting and touch, mirroring actual canine behavior.
- Voice Command Recognition: Jennie can respond to commands such as "sit" or "speak," creating a sense of authentic interaction.
- Genuine Puppy Sounds: Audio recordings of 8- to 10-week-old Labrador puppies enhance the realism, immersing users in a truly lifelike experience.
- Practical Battery Life: With all-day battery capability, Jennie can provide uninterrupted companionship. Simply recharge overnight, just like a smartphone.
A dedicated smartphone app enhances Jennie's functionality. Users can name their robotic pet, customize settings, and track interactions, adding a personalized touch. Regular software updates ensure Jennie remains dynamic, with new behaviors and commands continuously introduced.
How Jennie Helps People With Mental Health Issues
Jennie is designed to address several key health challenges:
- Dementia and Cognitive Impairment: Studies show robotic pets help ease symptoms like aggression, hallucinations, and emotional distress.
- Anxiety and Depression: Jennie provides comfort and emotional support for those battling mental health issues.
- Loneliness: Ideal for seniors or individuals in isolation, Jennie offers companionship and connection.
- Stress Reduction: For hospital patients or those in long-term care, Jennie's soothing presence helps alleviate stress.
Right now, Tombot is working towards the registration of Jennie as an FDA-controlled medical device, which will help expand the use of such devices in hospitals and care centers. With over 7,500 orders from homes and healthcare centers, it has a significant impact already.
According to FoxNews, Jennie has been priced at $449 for anyone who desires an affordable alternative to ownership of a live animal, either for health restrictions or housing situations.
Interested pet owners can opt-in to receive information on waiting lists and final pricing and release on Tombot's website.
Similar to Jennie, an AI voice coach Lumen could help patients who are struggling with depression and anxiety. Over eight sessions, those experiencing these issues can listen to the voice assistant's problem-solving therapy.
