Qoobo, designed by Yukai Engineering, is a unique therapeutic robot that offers companionship in the form of a cushion with a tail that wags in response to interaction. It is crafted to provide the comforting presence of a pet, specifically targeting the soothing sensation of a cat or dog wagging its tail. As a non-traditional robot, Qoobo is intended to be a simple, low-maintenance companion that can bring a sense of calm and comfort to individuals in various settings, including homes, offices, and therapeutic environments.

The research on Qoobo and similar therapeutic robots has been growing, with studies indicating that such robots can have positive effects on mental health, particularly for individuals with dementia, by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness (Tao et al., 2023). Additionally, the design considerations for Socially Assistive Robots (SARs) like Qoobo are increasingly focusing on how these devices communicate and make decisions, aiming to enhance their role in therapy and improve user interaction (Bettosi et al., 2023).

In conclusion, Qoobo represents an innovative approach to robotic companionship, stripping down the complexity of robotics to focus on the essence of what makes pets comforting. Its development and the ongoing research into SARs highlight the potential of such robots to positively impact mental health and well-being.