Sega Toys has a line of robotic cats as a part of its ‘KIMIT Ragdoll’ line, which makes an attempt (arguably creepily) to recreate the look of an actual cat. This means it has artificial fur, so you’ll be able to cuddle and pet it like the true factor. It even purs, although the eyes lighting up is somewhat unusual.
Unfortunately, two months after their February twenty ninth, 2024 debut (priced at round $215 USD), these robotic cats are being recalled resulting from a ‘burning odor.’ At this level, you’ll be able to most likely put two and two collectively – electrical parts combined with artificial fur result in warmth points and an disagreeable plastic-burning odor.
As of writing, there are not any studies of cat robots catching on hearth, however Sega has issued a right away recall of all fashions (together with white and brown robotic cats). Sega additionally asks customers to show them off instantly and undergo the refund and returns course of.
The origins of the ‘KIMIT Ragdoll’ line are admirable in that it was designed as a pet substitute for retirees, people who find themselves allergic to cats, and people residing in environments (like a densely populated metropolis) the place proudly owning a pet is not possible. Adding sound results and motion and having the robotic react to cuddles and pats is supposed to imitate the therapeutic advantages of interacting with cats. So, yeah, it is a disgrace that the design seemingly has a flaw that results in the fur burning and emitting a nasty odor.
Whether or not Sega Toys (a division of the identical Sega that created Sonic and the Genesis and Dreamcast consoles) will return to the drafting board and launch a brand new model stays to be seen.
