To tweak a line from “Terminator 2:” “Come with me if you want to love.”
Researchers have bridged the hole between science fiction and actuality by inventing a life-sized AI robotic “to tackle the staggering loneliness epidemic.”
And the attractive cybernetic companion might be yours — for a cool $175,000.
The busty bot, named Melody, was one in every of a number of humanoid robots on show on the 2025 Shopper Electronics Present in Las Vegas on Jan. 7.
Created by trailblazing tech agency Realbotix, Melody was reportedly created in step with ongoing efforts to make robots “indistinguishable from humans,” the corporate’s CEO Andrew Kiguel instructed Forbes.
In accordance, the robo-pal is a lifeless ringer for an actual particular person and might execute quite a lot of sensible actions and actions corresponding to sustaining eye contact, evoking one thing out of “Black Mirror” or “Megan.”
Whereas footage demonstrating Melody’s features isn’t out there, CNET did handle to interview her compatriot, Aria, a blonde bot in a black tracksuit which interacted by means of barely herky-jerky actions and automatic responses like a sultry animatronic Santa.
Realbotix robots are additionally “designed specifically for companionship and intimacy,” Aria instructed the publication.
Melody’s “functionality” and “adaptability” is made doable by infusing the machine with a mix of open-source AI and superior motor expertise, Realbotix representatives claimed.
“By incorporating advanced motor technology, Melody enhances movement fluidity, modularity, and interaction, making her a versatile option for a variety of applications,” they mentioned.
Naturally, this AI companion might sound tough to move given her dimension — to not point out all of the bells and whistles — however she’s tremendous moveable, capable of be disassembled and reassembled with ease.
“Melody was created with the intention of having robots that are easy to travel with and modify for various forms of personal interaction,” mentioned Kiguel.
Her personability and superior options additionally make her appropriate for quite a lot of roles, together with schooling, healthcare and plain previous leisure.
“We’re taking it to a different level that nobody else is really doing,” Kiguel declared. “It can be like a romantic partner. It remembers who you are. It can act as a boyfriend or girlfriend. If you ever saw that movie Her, we’re trying to do that.”
However don’t consider going full intercourse machina simply but — hanky panky is just not Melody’s prime directive.
“Melody does not have the functions of a sex doll,” a Realbotix spokesperson mentioned. “These robots are more so for engagement and entertainment and building human connection.”
Nevertheless, they added that the corporate’s bots “can run any of the spicier programs and engage in adult conversations” as properly.
A few of her parts are replaceable, which might turn out to be useful relying on her use.
