The Availbot was a neat prototype, but this USB i-Buddy we just saw takes instant message emote representation to the next level. When one of your pre-specified MSN buddies signs on, the little monarch man blinks its lights, flaps its wings or twists its body in a way that can only be described as incredibly spastic.
Best of all, it can recognize up to eight different emotes and act accordingly, meaning you can gauge your sig-other's mood at you ignoring her IMs all the way from across the room because you are tired and at CES and don't have time to talk.












Comments
Wish there was video. Still, I am glad this thing does not respond to "lol" because otherwise it would not last long...
WE DEMAND VIDEO OF THIS IN ACTION!!!
lol
I thought this was the iBuddy? I'm confused, patent/trademark infringement?
Does anybody else see the irony in the fact that this thing has the "i" prefix?
Put me in for a case.
Can I get one to sit on my shoulder and emote for me if my face gets burned off?
There's an adorable video of this li'l' guy in action on Gearlog. Check it out: [www.gearlog.com]
i'll take one
Reminds me of the "My Therapy Buddy" doll from American Inventor.
[www.mytherapybuddy.com]
Boo, If it worked with AIM I'd buy one for all my friends
I have to agree with 'GEISRUD' as there is also a company called Global Publications Ltd [www.iBuddy.com] which actually have a registered trade mark and covers many trade mark class's, all of which look like i-Buddy (company above) are infringing upon, iBuddy is a great name, especially for branding, surely before launching a product you would find out about competitors / trade mark issues? You'd be crazy not to! The i-buddy messenger product looks like a fun idea but I'd be very suprised if companies don't complain, especially these guys: [www.ipo.gov.uk]
Start a discussion:
Login with your username and password below. Or comment on this post via email.
Forgot your username or password? New User?