[ExI] Consumers warming to 'emotional' AI toys

[BillK]

Consumers warming to 'emotional' AI toys
By LI JIAYING | CHINA DAILY | Updated: 2026-01-28

<https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202601/28/WS69794587a310d6866eb36138.html>
Note: NOT sex dolls - this is a different market.

Quote:
Every night before going to bed, 27-year-old Nancy Liu places a small,
warm device beside her pillow. It breathes softly, responds when she
speaks, and remembers how her mood shifts from one day to the next.

"It feels like something is waiting for me," she said. "Not judging,
not rushing — just there."
Liu is not describing a pet or a person, but an artificial
intelligence companion toy — a quietly rising product category built
for long-term companionship. Designed to grow over time, these devices
learn users' habits and emotions, offering a steady sense of presence
in moments of loneliness.

For many elderly users, companionship begins with being understood.
JD.com's "chatty parrot" AI companion robot chats in familiar
dialects, reminds users about health routines and fills quiet
afternoons with beloved operas and classic storytelling. Priced at
just 159 yuan, it also doubles as a silent guardian, offering
emergency alerts, access to JD Health services and activity updates
shared with family members — blending warmth with reassurance.
-------------------------

It seems that many people REALLY want AI companions.
Toys, dolls, furry cats and dogs, online chats, etc.
BillK