Sony Upgrades Aibo Robot Dog With New Color And Security Features
Sony adds a new Choco Edition color and a paid home security package to its $3,000 Aibo robot dog, though the high price tag still limits its appeal.
Sony releases a new Choco Edition color for its Aibo robot dog, featuring a dark brown and bronze design that mimics a real canine. This new aesthetic joins the existing white model and costs the exact same $3,000 price point. The updated look aims to make the expensive robotic pet feel a bit more natural in a home setting.
Beyond the fresh paint job, Aibo finally learns a practical new trick as a home security monitor. The robot uses its existing face tracking and 3D mapping sensors to patrol the house and watch for intruders. In Japan, this feature operates through a partnership with the security firm Secom, fulfilling an early promise made by Sony about the robot's potential capabilities.
However, this added functionality requires an additional monthly fee of $13.50 for the paw patrol service. While these updates show that Sony remains committed to supporting the robotic pup, the high upfront cost combined with recurring subscription fees likely prevents the Aibo from attracting a much larger audience.