Hey there, tech enthusiasts! It’s Nuked, your go-to guy for all things gadgety and giggly. Buckle up because we’ve got some cuddly news coming your way!

Casio has just kicked off preorders for a delightful little robotic pet called Moflin. Imagine a fluffy creature that’s a mashup of a hamster and those adorable Tribbles from Star Trek. Unlike Sony’s Aibo that’s always on the move, Moflin is designed to be your cozy cuddle buddy. Over time, it learns your quirks and tries to forge a simulated bond through its own unique sounds and movements.

This cuddly creation was born from a partnership with Vanguard Industries, a cool Japanese startup. Now, Casio is taking the reins for manufacturing and distribution. You can snag one for about ￥59,400 (which is approximately $398 USD), with an expected release date of November 7th. Plus, if you’re feeling fancy, there’s an optional subscription service called Club Moflin available for ￥6,600 (around $44 USD) annually. This gives you discounts on repairs and cleanings—because let’s be honest, accidents happen!

While Moflin may not be the most mobile of companions, it sure does look lifelike! It’s not a toy like Aibo; instead, it aims to be a comforting presence that might even boost your mental wellness—think of it as a furry therapist. When you hold it close, Moflin’s subtle head and body movements are designed to mimic snuggling, making it feel like you’re bonding with a little fluffball.

Moflin is equipped with some AI magic too! It learns to recognize its favorite human by their voice and how they interact with it. Each person gets their own special sounds and movements from Moflin, really ramping up that cuddly connection.

You can choose between brown or gray fur for your new friend, and Casio even offers a cleaning service at an additional cost. The robot is crafted to develop its own “feelings” and personality over time—how cool is that? With regular love, Moflin will feel happy and secure. But if you leave it hanging too long, it might get stressed or sad. Don’t worry though; it won’t make sad puppy eyes—it’s more of a behind-the-scenes emotional experience tracked through an app.

Speaking of the app, it can also control the volume of Moflin’s sounds. Plus, it comes with its own little bed for recharging—no awkward USB cables here! Instead, Moflin appears to take a nap in its cozy bed while recharging. Casio estimates you’ll get about five hours of battery life from a full charge or three-and-a-half hours of napping for a quick recharge.

So there you have it! A fluffy companion that could just be the next best thing in tech therapy. Who knew technology could be so adorable? Until next time—stay cuddly!