The virtual pets known as Tamagouchi have been an extraordinary and unexpected sucess with children, and some adults, around the world. Sony have been taking the idea forward to the next logical step: a mobile robot pet which can have physical interaction with the environment and of course it's owner.

They have developed two versions of a four legged robot pet that resembles a small dog. One version is radio controlled, while the more advanced version is independent and can react to a number of stimuli and display various,"emotions" such as pleasure and displeasure.

Inside it's head are a...