This robotic roommate wants to help lonely people keep in touch with their friends

'Fribo' is a cat-like robot that's designed for people who live alone but want to feel like they have a roommate. When 'Fribo' hears a noise it recognizes, it sends a message to another 'Fribo' in a friend's home, or an entire network of 'Fribos' belonging to people you know, and sends them a notification. 

The designers hope 'Fribo' will drive daily connections with friends and encourage users to participate in follow-up interactions.  Read more...