Simulation Becomes Reality: AI Pet Boom Hits China's Shelves

BEIJING - Chinese consumers are becoming increasingly attached to simulated AI pets, as companies capitalize on the growing demand for emotional support and companionship. The number of sales has skyrocketed in recent months, with some products selling out within weeks and being forced to be restocked.

Zhang Yi, CEO of iiMedia Research Institute, attributes this trend to consumers' demands for emotional support and compatibility, citing advancements in AI technology that now enable simulating various pet-like interactions. As a result, more companies are embracing the vast business potential of AI companionship sectors.

Beijing-based student Zhang, who purchased Genmoor Technology's "Boo Boo," an AI robotic cat designed to display different emotions, acknowledges her curiosity drove her purchasing decision but also appreciates its visually appealing design resembling those of pets. Her experience reflects the increasingly appealing and endearing side of these virtual companions.

Interestingly, these products have proven successful in popular markets, like Japan and within China itself, where Genmoor's AI Pet Moflin recently debuted with significant interest leading up to launch on November 7, 2024.

Several manufacturers claim that future AI-powered animal simulations are expected to develop sophisticated user recognition features, offer self-patrolling functions among other advanced capabilities. For instance, WEILAN’s Multifunctional Robot for Emotional Support featuring a series of quadruped robot lines focused specifically on providing companionship and learning with adaptive interactions for better engagement.

The development targets an age range spanning from teenagers to seniors and will include features that can identify the potential physical or mental health concerns associated with users.