The pandemic affected people of all ages in different ways, however, there is a special concern for the elderly. Not being close to their families or friends made them lead a lonelier life. That is why the Takara Tomy company developed a doll with artificial intelligence to reduce the isolation of older adults. Christened Ami-Chan, the doll was designed as a little (robotic) granddaughter. It seems to be inspired by some Studio Ghibli character, with big eyes and a small smile.

A Japanese toy company has designed a doll with artificial intelligence to help tackle loneliness among older people isolated by the coronavirus pandemic. Takara Tomy toy company, which unveiled the new toy Wednesday, said inspiration for the doll came during the pandemic amid an increased demand for interactive products specifically designed for older people. With the use of AI and facial recognition, the doll, dubbed Ami-chan, can converse, react and'connect' with its user. The doll has been designed to look like a grand-daughter and has a child's voice rather than a robotic one. She is 30 centimeters tall and has a calendar function that recognizes the different seasons and remembers birthdays.