A Super Dark Horse Won Hearts and Wallets at CES 2025
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 has been a whirlwind of innovation, with AI and robotics taking center stage. But amidst the glitz and glamour of cutting-edge GPUs, foldable gadgets, and self-driving toasters (yes, that’s probably a thing now), one unexpected star has emerged: Ropet, the AI-powered robot pet. This cuddly, tech-savvy companion has not only captured the imagination of CES attendees but has also made waves on Kickstarter, raising over a million dollars and selling more than 900 units.
Oh, and here’s the kicker: 70% of those purchases were made by women. Let’s dive into why Ropet is the biggest dark horse of this year’s CES and what makes it so irresistible.
What Is Ropet?
Ropet is an AI-powered robotic pet designed to provide emotional companionship. Think of it as a low-maintenance alternative to a real pet—no feeding, no bathing, and definitely no poop-scooping. It’s a soft, cuddly robot with a warm exterior that mimics the comforting presence of a living pet. Equipped with advanced AI, Ropet can express emotions, hold conversations (thanks to ChatGPT integration), and even adapt to its owner’s personality over time.
The device features a camera, microphone, speaker, and a screen that doubles as its "eyes," allowing it to convey emotions. It connects to Wi-Fi and offers a range of customization options, including different voices and appearances. Ropet’s accessory ecosystem even lets users purchase outfits and masks to personalize their robot buddy.