NEW YORK -- Sony announced Thursday that it would release the latest model of its autonomous robotic puppy aibo in the United States in September.
It will be the first release overseas after its launch in Japan in January. The company aims to export the hit Japanese item to the United States with the aim of finding market opportunities and improving the strength of its brand there.
"This is truly a one-of-a-kind product designed to connect with its owners on an emotional level," said Michael Fasulo, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics North America, an affiliate of Sony Corp.
He said the robot grows along with users by utilizing its artificial intelligence and other technology.
At Thursday's unveiling event, the robotic dog showed off its ability to react when people call or to play with a ball, eliciting such cries from onlookers as "Super cute!"
The U.S. retail price of the new robotic dog with accessories is 2,899 dollars (about 320,000 yen). In Japan, more than 20,000 units have been sold amid continuing popularity.
Senior Vice President Izumi Kawanishi said, "We want to take this momentum in Japan to the United States."
The company plans to sell aibo in other countries in the future.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
