Sony unveils robot lion cub

Consumers around the world will soon be able to buy a companion for their Sony Aibo robots as the electronics giant begins to deliver the second-generation metallic pet to its retail channels.

The latest Aibo robot, called the ERS-210, is modelled after a lion cub and can recognise its own name as well as 50 other words. It also wiggles, waddles, and blinks its light eyes.

The robot will be available from 16 November, and costs around £1000 in Europe and $1500 in the US.

Sony has shipped about 45,000 of the electronic friends worldwide since the first batch was released in 1999. The company claims it is ready to handle 60,000 orders a month for the new version.

Takeshi Yazawa, head of Sony's robot unit, said the first-generation models already have an active global community of fans. "We expect that the second-generation Aibo's enhanced interactive capabilities will further strengthen the relationship between Aibo and thousands of new owners."

The latest version, available in silver, gold and black, has been given more touch sensors and enjoys greater freedom of movement. It also has a sensor beneath its chin and can show it is happy by lighting up its green eyes when petted there. Aibo uses the camera in its nose to help it avoid bumping into walls as well as to take colour photos which are stored in its memory stick.

Additional LED lamps on its face and tail enable the robot to demonstrate a variety of emotions. It also has a calendar and clock feature so it can be programmed to remember important days.

Commands can be sent to Aibo wirelessly by using a special Aibo wireless Lan card and programming software kit.

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