You probably remember or have heard of the old TV cartoon show The Jetson’s, which also became a movie. About the family of the future with flying cars and video phones.
Do you remember their Rosey the robot? She did all kinds of things around their futuristic home and also served as the family’s companion.
Now jump ahead to today. Have you heard of EllieQ, That’s the name of an AI robot which was made to be a social robot for older adults who are alone.
It is said to respond to voice commands, provide reminders, send text messages and serve as a companion. A report about it this week describes it as one answer to the loneliness a lot of people experience.
The report talks about an increase in loneliness and social isolation which have been linked to mental illness, obesity, and dementia. Scientists say these AI robot companions could help isolated individuals and reduce the potential health risks that come with chronic solitude.
We all are already familiar with Siri and Alexa who talk to us from our cellphones and stand-up speakers, but this even newer kind of talking, walking AI robot companion could become as popular as the Jetsons were decades ago and more helpful for all those lonely people.
(Photo Getty Images)
Photo: Jeff Spicer