A new robotic puppy designed to comfort older people has launched in the UK

A new robotic puppy developed to help older people, particularly those living with dementia, has been launched in the UK. Ageless Innovation, a US company with ambitions to work with the NHS, makes robotic pets which can be safer and more predictable alternatives to living animals designed to comfort adults who are lonely or who have dementia. The freckled pup robot is capable of responding to human voices, being touched and hugged with realistic dog-like sounds and has a simulated heartbeat to make it appear more life-like. The battery-powered puppy resembles a liver and white cocker spaniel thanks to its soft, tufty fur, and is small and light enough to easily rest on a lap. It will go on sale in the UK for £129 from 15 March, having previously been launched in the US last October.