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Robo-Friend: How a Tiny AI Sidekick is Saving Kids' Mental Health in Hospitals

silver and black robot toy

Healthcare just got an adorable upgrade, and it’s coming in the form of a 4-foot-tall robot named Robin.

Imagine being a sick kid stuck in a sterile hospital room, feeling lonely and scared. Now imagine a friendly robot who remembers your name, plays your favorite tunes, and helps you through medical procedures with the compassion of a best friend. That’s exactly what Robin does, and tech enthusiasts are totally here for it.

Meet Robin: The Hospital’s Newest Emotional Support Tech

Developed by Expper Technologies, Robin isn’t just another cold, calculating machine. This AI-powered robot is designed to provide genuine emotional support, with a personality crafted directly from children’s reactions. Created by CEO Karen Khachikyan, who grew up feeling lonely, Robin represents a fascinating intersection of empathy and technology.

More Than Just a Cute Face

Robin isn’t just about entertainment. With the healthcare industry facing massive staffing shortages, this robot helps fill crucial emotional gaps. It can play games, provide distraction during medical procedures, and even mirror patients’ emotional states. From dancing to playing simplified tic-tac-toe, Robin is transforming hospital experiences for kids.

The Future of Compassionate Care

As AI continues evolving, robots like Robin might become standard in healthcare. The goal isn’t replacing human workers, but supporting them during overwhelming times. With plans to eventually measure patient vitals and provide more comprehensive care, Robin represents a glimpse into a more empathetic technological future.

Who knew robots could have such big hearts?

AUTHOR: pw

SOURCE: NBC Bay Area