Paro, the Robot Seal the only Comdex 2003 Highlight?

Nov 22 2003, 9:00pm EST | by Luigi Lugmayr

The press is a bit mixed (Comdex news via google ) about this years Comdex. Only 50,000 visitors, thats only 25% of what it used to be. Those Comdex After Dark events looked like very cheesy, especially the one in the Rain (Story on Las Vegas Sun).

The number of new product announcements was also very low. Questionable if the Comdex can back its status any time soon.

For me the only two highlights were the Microsoft Matrix Spoof Video at Bill Gates Key Note and this japanese Seal Robot Paro.
Paro is stuffed animal robot, developed by Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology for therapeutical use.
Surface tactile sensors beneath its fur and whiskers trigger Paro to move and respond to petting: eyes open and close, flippers move. Just holding and stroking the critter has a calming effect, as Comdex (Computer Dealer Expo) visitors who checked it out soon discovered.
Paro may soon be tested in children's hospitals in the United States. It's expected to cost between $2,500 and $3,000. More details at CNN Technology.

Update:
Futurelooks Comdex 2003 Coverage

See Also:
The Future: Realistic Japanese Female Actroid Robot
Photos from Robodex 2003
Small Digital Cameras

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Luigi Lugmayr
Luigi is the founding chief Editor of I4U News and brings over 15 years experience in the technology field to the ever evolving and exciting world of gadgets. He started I4U News back in 2000 and evolved it into vibrant technology magazine.
Luigi can be contacted directly at ml@i4u.com. Luigi posts regularly on LuigiMe.com about his experience running I4U.