AI's Transition to Tangible Companions

Not every artificial intelligence aims to revolutionize your productivity or replace your occupation. In some cases, AI simply desires to offer companionship.

Although robotic pets were not the primary attraction at CES 2026, they have evolved past being mere novelties. Their emergence demonstrates how AI is gradually stepping out from digital devices into the physical realm of our everyday environments.

The Array of Purposeful Machines

Las Vegas showcased a plethora of specialized devices: Samsung presented a fridge you can talk to, Bosch unveiled an AI-driven barista featuring Alexa Plus, and smart cleaning bots like Narwal’s jewelry-locating Flow 2 and the dual-functioning aromatherapy Eufy S2 from Anker, each promising to simplify mundane tasks. Yet, standout humanoid robots also captured much attention by promising generalized household assistance—or even factory help, though their daily use is still in the future.

The Rise of Existential Robots

Beyond flashy demos, a subtler movement hints at robots existing for presence rather than productivity. Machines are emerging that serve limited practical purposes beyond just being there.

For instance, charging your phone no longer needs to be mundane thanks to a device that turns your smartphone into a charming companion with expressive eyes, akin to animated characters. It offers practical tools like meeting reminders yet presents itself as a companion first. The specifics of its AI components remain unspecified.

Zeroth, a startup in AI robotics, introduces a robot rooted in familiar Pixar animations. Known as W1, it does little beyond trailing after you or taking snapshots, while the precise nature of its 'advanced mobility and environmental AI' is left largely unelaborated.

Robots as Everyday Helpers

Zeroth will also introduce the M1 in the US market—a small humanoid that combines utility with companionship, facilitated by Google's Gemini AI for dialogues. Already popular in Asia for roles in childcare and as social partners, these robots are poised for the Western consumer in a new form.

Elsewhere, some companies are embracing the notion of robot pets. One such example is a fluffy companion that reacts to touch and is transportable, suggesting a future where these devices become increasingly common, despite unclear AI utilization.

From Functional Devices to Emotional Companions

Ecovacs, known for cleaning robots, now offers a pet-like robot styled after a beloved dog breed, the Bichon Frisé. This device uses AI and biometrics to interact with users, adapting over time. Its launch marks a departure from its typical product line, indicating a growing trend where AI enters our homes more for company than for their technical functions.