Aibo Robot Dog Owners Gather in San Jose for Annual Meetup

A pack of robotic pups took over Silicon Valley in San Jose earlier this month—but don’t expect barking. Instead, there were beeps, tail wags, and plenty of head tilts as dozens of Sony Aibo robot dogs and their proud owners gathered for the annual Aibo robot dog meetup.

The event brought together Aibo robot pet owners and lovers from across the country for a day filled with contests, tech talk, and plenty of high-tech charm. From obedience challenges to costume contests and even robot dog races, the day offered a playful reminder of how advanced robotics can bring joy and community in unexpected ways.

With Silicon Valley as the backdrop, the meetup couldn’t have found a more fitting stage. Organizers said the goal was not only to bring together Aibo owners but also to promote and expand robot technology in the United States. And the Aibo robot dog couldn’t have been a better choice of robotics to showcase robot technology.

Sony’s Aibo, which first debuted in Japan in 1999 and was reimagined in 2018 with enhanced AI, isn’t your average robot. These intelligent companions are designed to develop personalities over time, respond to voice commands, recognize faces, and express emotions through body language and LED eyes.

For attendees, though, it’s not just about specs—it’s about connection. “Usually when someone says robot, they think of ‘Terminator’ or something similar,” said Andrew Elstad, one of the attendees. “Japan is more open and accepting about the whole idea of a companion robot, but I would definitely want to see it grow in the U.S. It would be nice to see these guys [Aibo] have a little bit more following.”.

If this meetup was any sign of what the future of robot pets and companions can be, then we would say that the possibility of their acceptance might be closer than we think. Experience the joys of owning a robot pet now by taking a look at our guide on the best robot pets.