A New Era of Robot Companions: Yukai Engineering’s Mirumi
Mirumi is not your typical robot. Unlike other bots that can perform complex tasks or navigate through rooms, this one is designed to evoke a sense of affection and curiosity—similar to the way a shy infant would behave. Created by Yukai Engineering, the same company behind the headless robotic cat Qoobo, Mirumi is a cute, furry companion that’s ready to steal your heart with its adorable movements and shy tendencies.
At first glance, you might wonder, “What does a robot like this actually do?” While it may not be able to walk or talk, it’s the way it reacts to its surroundings that makes it unique. Mirumi features sensors that allow it to detect nearby objects or people, turning its head and giving them a curious gaze. But when someone unexpectedly gets too close, the bot ducks away as if it’s feeling shy. It’s this blend of curiosity and bashfulness that gives Mirumi its endearing personality.
Mirumi’s creators at Yukai Engineering have unveiled this new bot, which will soon be available through a crowdfunding campaign set to launch in mid-2025. With a price point expected around $70, Mirumi is designed to appeal to anyone in need of a small, cute, and interactive companion—whether you want it attached to your bag or just hanging out on your desk.
The Shy and Furry Companion You Didn’t Know You Needed
Mirumi’s soft, furry exterior is available in two colors: a soothing pink and a classic gray. The bot may not be able to walk or perform any advanced tasks, but its charm lies in its simplicity and the way it interacts with the world around it. At just $70, the price is reasonable for a robot that provides companionship, albeit in the form of an inquisitive gaze and shy reactions.
Unlike the Qoobo robocat, which was designed to rest on a lap and provide comfort, Mirumi has arms that allow it to cling to the strap or handle of a bag. This gives it a more interactive presence, as it can follow you around by simply being attached to your purse or backpack. Mirumi’s adorable appearance and movements are sure to catch the eye of onlookers, especially when it starts reacting to their movements.
When a bag with Mirumi attached to it is moved, the bot will begin to look around, its sensors detecting the shift in motion. This prompts it to focus its gaze on whatever is nearby—whether that’s a person walking by or an object within its line of sight. Mirumi’s sensors, which include a distance sensor and an inertial measurement unit, work together to make these reactions appear natural and fluid.
What Makes Mirumi Tick?
- Sensors & Movement: Mirumi’s sensors enable it to react to motion and nearby objects, mimicking a sense of curiosity.
- Shyness Mode: When approached or touched unexpectedly, the bot will react by ducking away in a shy manner.
- Bag Attachment: Equipped with long arms, Mirumi can attach itself to the strap or handle of a bag, making it mobile and interactive.
Mirumi’s ability to mimic the curiosity and shyness of a young child is something the makers have spent a lot of time perfecting. By responding to stimuli like a sudden motion or close proximity, the robot creates a sense of interaction that feels authentic. Though it doesn’t walk or engage in advanced functions like other robots, this simple interaction could be all the companionship someone might need.
A Crowdfunding Adventure
As of now, Yukai Engineering is planning to launch Mirumi via a crowdfunding campaign in mid-2025. The campaign will allow fans of the company’s previous work to get in on the action early. For those curious about purchasing their own Mirumi, the crowdfunding campaign will likely offer early-bird specials and other incentives for backers.
As for the pricing, Mirumi will retail for around $70, making it an affordable option for those looking for a quirky, interactive companion. With its adorable design and interactive features, it might just be the perfect addition to anyone’s desk, bag, or living space.
What’s Next for Robot Companions?
While Mirumi is still in its early stages, it’s already sparking conversations about the role of interactive robots in our daily lives. We’re starting to see more robots like Mirumi that provide companionship without the need for complex tasks or advanced artificial intelligence. These simple robots seem to fulfill a desire for connection and interaction in a world that’s becoming more disconnected in some ways.
With robots like Mirumi, it’s clear that Yukai Engineering is continuing to push the boundaries of what a robot can be. It’s not about having a bot that can clean your house or run errands. It’s about having something that can interact with you on a basic level, offering companionship and a sense of presence. In a way, Mirumi is a reminder that sometimes, the smallest gestures—a glance, a shy retreat—can make the biggest impact.
