PREVIEW

A South Korean company has created an AI doll companion to combat loneliness among the elderly. The companion robot, Hyodol, can process language, recognise emotions, talk and play music to help the lonely feel less alone. Using a soft fabric and childlike appearance, the doll is designed to be appealing to the elderly and encourage user interaction. Each doll can become unique as it gathers information from interacting with its user. To help with the personal care of the elderly, the companion will also check in, set reminders, play quizzes, and suggest exercises. Similar to a human carer, the robot will ask health questions twice a day and from the answers, monitor the users’ health. Hyodol is now successfully collecting real-time data from over 10,000 elderly individuals, which the firm uses to improve its care services. The firm behind Hyodol believes South Korea is entering a “super-aged population” and that “the medical expenses for the elderly continue to rise”. Soon, the firm hopes to launch Hyodol into the European and North American markets. Each doll will set customers back around $1,800 (£1,412),