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Another Litter of Aibos for Sale

For a limited time only, buy a robotic dog from Sony.

By Martyn Williams, IDG News   

There will be no limits on the number of robots on sale, unlike the last two times the company offered Aibo. However, Sony will offer the devices for a limited amount of time.

In Japan, Sony Communications Network will accept orders from February 15 to February 25 for shipments beginning in April. In addition to orders by telephone and Internet, Sony will also be accepting orders by mail.

The Aibo made headlines around the world in June 1999 when Sony sold a limited number of the devices. Hailed as the first robot produced for entertainment purposes, Sony offered 3000 of the devices to customers in Japan and 2000 to those in North America. They were sold out via the Internet within minutes in Japan despite their price tag of around $2500.

Just Like the Real Thing?

The silver-skinned Aibo can react to its surroundings, recognize objects, and play like a real dog. It can bark, play fetch, and even pretend to piddle on the floor. It also comes programmed to learn through trial and error: Sony says a good scolding can help "housetrain" the pet. The Aibo will also grow contented if the owner gives it the same type of attention that a real dog craves, and can become depressed if it is scolded too much.

After the huge success of the sale in June, Sony put another batch on sale in November last year. That time it accepted all orders made within the sale period and then held a lottery for 10,000 of the robots. Again this failed to satisfy demand. The company received 135,000 orders for the 10,000 pets available. In total, 132,000 orders came from Japan, 2000 from North America, and 1000 from Europe.

The device will cost $2500 in North America, 250,000 yen in Japan, and 2400 euros in Europe. Orders will be accepted through the Sony Aibo home page at www.world.sony.com/aibo/.