CASIO has today (17th September) announced the UK launch of Moflin, a palm-sized, emotionally intelligent companion that has been designed to provide comfort, connection, and emotional support through advanced emotional AI. After a successful launch in Japan, Moflin is now being launched in the UK, and shortly will be launching in the US.
Moflin is a guinea pig-like AI companion that uses proprietary emotional AI to develop a unique personality based on its interactions with its user. Through interactions with the pet, each and every Moflin is different, and a user’s interactions with the creature will mean it develops any of the over four million possible emotional profiles. It can recognise voices, respond to stroking and cuddles, and it gradually develops emotional reactions that reflect the bond it shares with its owner. On day one, it’s reactions can be immature and will be limited in emotions, however, over time, attachment begins, emotions become richer, and it will show a clear range of emotions.
Through the companion app, MofLife, users can visualise Moflin’s evolving emotional state and track interactions, adding depth to the relationship they share with the robotic pet.
The UK launch of Moflin coincides with new research commissioned by CASIO, highlighting the growing openness to technology that supports emotional wellbeing:
- Nearly 70% of parents are open to using AI to help their child regulate emotions – rising to nine in 10 parents aged 25–34
- Almost a quarter (24%) of children struggle with emotional regulation, with a further 22% experiencing emotional anxiety
- 56% of UK adults with anxiety are interested in exploring how AI could support emotional regulation
- One in five UK adults say they would like a pet for comfort
Moflin was originally developed through a crowdfunding project by Vanguard Industries and powered by CASIO technology. The product generated over 30 times the expected interest in Japan, where it launched successfully in 2024. The UK debut marks its first availability in Europe.
Philippa Forrester, broadcaster, author and former Tomorrow’s World presenter, commented: “Throughout my career I’ve been fascinated by both transformative technology and the natural world, and how they can intersect. Moflin is a fantastic example of how far technology has come, responding to human interaction in a way that feels intuitive and warm. It’s wonderful to witness robotic technology evolve in ways that, when used appropriately, have huge potential for our mental health and wellbeing.”
A Moflin costs £369, and according to the website, and can be with you in an estimated six weeks.
With this product becoming available to the masses, the question is, are robotic pets the next era of wellness for the ever-busy modern individual? We will have to wait and see.
