Yukai Engineering, a Japanese robotics startup known for its emotionally engaging creations, is preparing to launch Mirumi, a novel companion robot designed to evoke the endearing curiosity and shyness of an infant. Mirumi, unlike its predecessor, the lap-resting Qoobo robotic cat, is designed for portability, featuring long arms that allow it to be securely attached to bags, purses, or backpacks. This mobile design enables Mirumi to accompany its owner throughout their day, offering a whimsical and heartwarming presence in various social settings. While lacking the ability to move independently, Mirumi’s primary interaction lies in its expressive head movements and large, captivating googly eyes.
Mirumi’s interactive behavior is driven by a combination of a distance sensor and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). These sensors allow it to perceive its environment and react accordingly, simulating a range of infant-like responses. When the bag to which it is attached begins to move, Mirumi starts to look around, mimicking the inquisitive nature of a child exploring a new environment. Upon detecting a nearby person or object, Mirumi focuses its gaze, creating a sense of engagement and connection. This responsiveness extends to more subtle interactions as well; when jiggled, Mirumi shakes its head in a gentle “no” gesture, further enhancing its lifelike charm.
Conversely, Mirumi also exhibits a shy demeanor, mimicking the bashful reactions of an infant. If someone suddenly approaches or touches it, the robot will turn its head away, conveying a sense of shyness and vulnerability. This duality of curiosity and shyness adds depth to Mirumi’s character, making its interactions more nuanced and engaging. When left unengaged for a period of time, Mirumi resumes its innocent exploration, scanning its surroundings with gentle head movements, reinforcing its childlike curiosity.
The underlying design philosophy behind Mirumi centers around the human desire to share joy and connect with others. Yukai Engineering CEO Shunsuke Aoki envisions Mirumi as a catalyst for these interactions, its innocent gaze prompting smiles, waves, and playful expressions from those who encounter it. Mirumi’s presence, whether on a crowded train or in a checkout line, is intended to inject a touch of whimsy and warmth into everyday interactions, fostering connections between strangers and brightening even mundane moments. This concept aligns with Yukai Engineering’s broader mission of creating robots that enrich emotional well-being and enhance social connection.
Mirumi’s development continues Yukai Engineering’s focus on creating robots that prioritize emotional engagement over functionality. Unlike robots designed for practical tasks, Mirumi’s purpose is to evoke feelings of warmth, amusement, and connection. Its simple, yet expressive movements and adorable design aim to tap into our innate human affinity for childlike innocence and playfulness. This focus on emotional engagement represents a unique approach to robotics, highlighting the potential for technology to enhance our emotional lives in subtle yet meaningful ways.
The planned crowdfunding campaign for Mirumi is slated for mid-2025, offering potential backers the opportunity to support the project and be among the first to experience this unique companion robot. The planned price point of around $70 makes Mirumi a relatively accessible entry point into the world of companion robotics. With color options including pink and gray fur, users will be able to personalize their Mirumi to suit their individual preferences. The crowdfunding approach echoes the successful launch of previous Yukai Engineering projects, demonstrating the company’s commitment to engaging directly with its community of enthusiasts and fostering a sense of shared ownership in the development process.
