Description

Imagine a future where robot companions offer meaningful connection, emotional support, and playful interactions. This challenge invites you to envision new species of pets and design new paradigms for how humans interact with them - whether they’re tiny robotic assistants at your desk or life-sized mechanical creatures that roam your home. How can we harness immersive experiences to cultivate bonding, delight, and curiosity with these robotic friends?

How Might We…

• … prototype and create intelligent species leveraging the affordances of XR?
• … design mixed-reality play experiences that elevate both fun and emotional connection?
• ... explore novel forms of nonverbal communication that build empathy and understanding between pets and their humans?
• ... merge virtual and physical elements to transform everyday routines into opportunities for surprise and discovery?
• …leverage immersive feedback to develop trust and a sense of real companionship with AI-driven robots?

Support & Resources

• Collaborative brainstorm with IDEO designers & the Emerging Tech Lab
• Design critique and presentation with IDEO Emerging Technologies Lab