Let’s face it – the average robot cat of the early ‘80s just didn’t cut the mustard. The sound effects were unrealistic, and the cuddle factor was notoriously low.
But the Roboto Neko Amigo, which hit store shelves in 1989, was a significant leap forward in consumer robotic cat technology. Featuring real angora fur and an advanced cuddle engagement system, the product raised the bar for the entire robo-pet industry.
Unfortunately, with a retail price tag of $1,599, Roboto Neko Amigo did not succeed commercially. But its influence is still felt today.
Check out the vintage Japanese/Spanish-language commercial above, discovered and restored by The Museum of Modern Robotics and the Arts.
Submitted by Jacob Ware.
