A Sydney-based start-up is aiming to transform human-robot interactions by developing empathetic companion robots that can recognise people, answer questions and share stories.

 

The technology, powered by generative artificial intelligence, is likely to have significant benefits for older Australians, with this cohort experiencing the highest rates of emotional loneliness.

 

Enabled by machine vision and a ChatGPT-4 AI chatbot, the robot named Abi is designed to interact with senior residents in hospitals and other areas frequented by older Australians in a “relaxed and conversational manner”.

 

The robot can recognise people, answer questions, tailor conversations based on past interactions, and even share stories and tell jokes. It also has entertainment features, such as playing music and games, dancing, tai chi, exercises, and blowing bubbles. 

 

The company behind the prototype, Sydney-based technology group Andromeda Robotics, said it has worked with advisors from animation studios Pixar and DreamWorks to make Abi’s body language “as empathetic and engaging as possible”.

 

Andromeda is currently conducting on-site trials with several residential aged care facilities across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, with plans to expand the Abi trials to children’s hospitals starting early 2024. 

 

Andromeda Robotics co-founder Grace Brown said Abi is designed to help vulnerable demographics, such as older Australians, to maintain their independence, learn, and socialise.
 
 “Abi provides a new way for people to connect and find comfort in the midst of difficult situations. Our robots offer emotional support and act as a source of joy and entertainment, helping to alleviate loneliness and isolation. Our ultimate goal is to empower people to form deep and lasting bonds with our robots, enhancing the well-being and quality of life of our users.”

 

The idea to start building Abi was inspired by the increased need for companionship following Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns and the potential for robotics to meet that need, she said.

 

In an interview with Mobihealth News last month, Brown said robotics are increasingly becoming a staple adjunct technology in elderly care worldwide, most commonly to assist carers in lifting and holding patients, and in fall prevention. 

 

She noted progression in Australia has been lagging due to poor quality of interactions.

 

Israeli company Intuition Robotics appears likely to be the first in the world to offer a generative AI-powered companion robot for independent seniors after raising $25 million in investment to scale ElliQ, the robotic companion it designed to support older adults on the journey to age independently.

 

Andromeda told the online news site it aims to bring its fully functional robot to the market “within the next 18 months”.