Key specs
- Interaction
- Touch sensors under the fur; over 20 voice commands
- Charging
- USB-C; Elephant Robotics says 45 minutes gives up to 10 hours
- Extras
- Animated LED eyes, moving head and tail
- Voice commands
- Over 20
- Run time
- Up to 10 hours per charge (maker figure)
- Movement
- Head, eyes and tail
Our verdict
metaCat sits between simple battery pets and pricier AI pets. It suits someone who will enjoy giving commands and seeing a reaction, though there is less evidence behind it than behind PARO or Joy for All.
What we like
- Rechargeable rather than disposable batteries
- More movement and expressions than basic robot pets
- Marketed specifically for older users
- Rechargeable
- Responds to touch and voice
- Expressive animated eyes and tail
What to know
- Animated screen eyes look less natural than glass eyes
- Little independent research on this model
- Little independent evidence
- Screen eyes look less lifelike
- Separate store for buyers in the Americas
How it compares
| Spec | metaCat | Joy for All Companion Pet Cat | Percy Interactive Robot Cat | ElliQ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $159 | $159.99 / around £127 | $99 on sale, $139 list | $249.99 setup fee plus $59.99 a month, or $49.99 a month on a |
| Interaction | Touch sensors under the fur; over 20 voice commands | - | - | - |
| Charging | USB-C; Elephant Robotics says 45 minutes gives up to 10 hours | - | - | - |
| Extras | Animated LED eyes, moving head and tail | - | Simulated heartbeat vibration | - |
| Voice commands | Over 20 | - | - | - |
| Run time | Up to 10 hours per charge (maker figure) | - | - | - |
| Movement | Head, eyes and tail | - | - | - |
| Power | - | 4 x C batteries | - | - |
| Responds to | - | Petting and hugging | Touch on head, neck, back and tail; simple voice commands | - |
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