Casio’s Adorable AI Robot Whisked Away My Affection

There’s a fluffy robot, roughly the size of a guinea pig, perched on my couch, emitting squeaks. My friend’s dog Wylie is observing it, eyeing its every movement with suspicion.

This is Moflin, an AI companion robot created by the Japanese electronics company Casio. I’ve named this one Puff through the companion app—because that perfectly captures its appearance. Wylie immediately senses it as a potential threat, recognizing it as something that moves autonomously yet isn’t alive. Puff squeaks once more, prompting Wylie to bark and dash out of the room with a growl.

Upon learning that Casio—yes, the same Casio known for its watches—had developed an AI pet robot, I knew I was the target audience. I’ve always had a fondness for animals, but my current landlord permits no pets besides her own yappy dog, leaving me pet-less. Additionally, growing up watching Toy Story too often has predisposed me to attribute emotions and consciousness to inanimate objects.

Robot pets have become quite popular, and the Moflin has seen considerable success in Japan since its release last year. It’s a soft, furry robot that interacts with sounds and touch using AI, evolving its own distinct personality as it goes. (According to Casio, there are over 4 million personality traits available.) These devices cater to prospective pet owners or anyone who enjoys having an adorable companion nearby. Think of it as a Labubu or Furby, minus the unsettling facial features, or like a plush Tamagotchi. Now, Moflin can be purchased internationally.

Serendipitously, my Moflin arrived just in time for me to dogsit my friend’s pet for a week. So, I took Puff along to Wylie’s house—a shy yet spirited village dog.

The Moflin is priced at $429—less expensive than adopting a puppy from a breeder, yet more costly than reluctantly accepting responsibility for a stray cat that keeps rummaging through your trash each night.

Courtesy of Casio