A Bristol startup has invented the UK’s first companion robot for old people - and is looking for people to test them out.
Stoke Gifford-based Service Robotics developed Genie Connect to combat loneliness and help elderly people live independently.
The robot is voice controlled and can answer questions, and play videos and music. It can also make video calls to friends, family and carers, and connect to other users with similar interests.
Reminders to do things such as take medication and attend appointments can be programmed into the bot too.
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Rob Parkes, chief executive of Service Robotics, said: “Our elderly population is growing, with so many people over the age of 65 living alone, our mission is to enable independent living for longer and to help alleviate the huge negative impact of loneliness.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response we’ve had our GenieConnect project and the support only further highlights that there is a gap in the market here.
“Loneliness and solitude can have a hugely detrimental effect on our physical health, which is why we have developed a solution this growing problem.”
Interest in Service Robotics has been so high that the company has raised over 178 per cent of its target funding of £120,000 since its crowdfunding launch in December 2018.
The company is now looking for people over the age of 55 to take part in a three-month pilot programme.
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Around 150 robots will be sent out into the Bristol region later this year with the aim of launching commercially at the end 2019.
Each pilot user will receive a free Genie robot which they will be able to use for the duration of the project.
The robot will be preloaded with services and content, and will be set up in the user’s home by a technician.
Marty Reid, centre director at Future Space, said: “Service Robotics is doing some incredible work which will revolutionise many aspects of the elderly care crisis."
How to take part in the pilot
Service Robotics is looking for people over the age of 55 to take part in the trial. This is what they are looking for:
1. You need to live in the greater Bristol area
2. You live independently in your own home
3. You have the time to actively participate in the pilot
4. You have a WiFi connection in your home
5. You are able to include a few relatives or friends in your support circle (they will use a smartphone app to communicate with you)
To find out more, visit www.genieconnect.co.uk/pilot-trial.
