Commercial model
$2,899 list price
A published price gives buyers a starting point for budgeting, ROI modeling, and peer comparison before deeper vendor conversations begin.
Release
Jan 1, 2018
Price
$2,899
Connectivity
2
Status
Available
Height
29.3cm (standing)
Weight
2.2kg
Battery
~2 hours
Companions
Available
aibo (ERS-1000)
Sony's AI-powered robotic companion dog, the latest generation of the iconic AIBO line first launched in 1999. The ERS-1000 features OLED eyes, 22 axes of movement, and deep learning AI that develops a unique personality over time based on interactions with its owner. aibo recognizes faces, responds to over 100 voice commands, learns tricks, and navigates autonomously back to its charging station. With cameras, ToF sensors, and LTE connectivity, aibo forms emotional bonds and grows more expressive the more you interact with it. Over 27,000 units of previous generations were manufactured; the ERS-1000 launched in Japan in January 2018 and in the US later that year.
Listed price
$2,899
$2,899.99 (US MSRP, subscription plan required)
Release window
Jan 1, 2018
Current status
Available
Sony
Last verified
May 28, 2026
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Technical overview
Core specifications and system stack
A fast read on the mechanical profile, sensing package, and platform integrations behind aibo (ERS-1000).
Technical Specifications
Height
29.3cm (standing)
Weight
2.2kg
Dimensions
Approx. 180 × 293 × 305 mm (W×H×D while standing, excluding protruding parts)
Battery Life
~2 hours
Charging Time
~3 hours
Max Speed
Not disclosed
Tech Components
Operational profile
How this robot is configured
Capabilities
10
Connectivity
2
Key capabilities
Emotion RecognitionFace Recognition (up to 100 faces)Voice Command Recognition (100+ commands)Autonomous NavigationSelf-ChargingPersonality Development Over TimeTrick LearningPhoto Capture (patrol mode)
Ecosystem fit
My aibo App (iOS/Android)
Certifications
FCC
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Coverage
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About the aibo (ERS-1000)
10Sensors2Protocols10Capabilities$2.9kListed Price
The aibo (ERS-1000) is a Companions robot built by Sony. Sony's AI-powered robotic companion dog, the latest generation of the iconic AIBO line first launched in 1999. The ERS-1000 features OLED eyes, 22 axes of movement, and deep learning AI that develops a unique personality over time based on interactions with its owner. aibo recognizes faces, responds to over 100 voice commands, learns tricks, and navigates autonomously back to its charging station. With cameras, ToF sensors, and LTE connectivity, aibo forms emotional bonds and grows more expressive the more you interact with it. Over 27,000 units of previous generations were manufactured; the ERS-1000 launched in Japan in January 2018 and in the US later that year.
At a listed price of $2,899, it positions itself in the mid-range segment of the companions market. See all Sony robots on the Sony page.
Spec Breakdown
Detailed specifications for the aibo (ERS-1000)
Height
29.3cm (standing)At 29.3cm (standing), the aibo (ERS-1000) is sized for its intended operating environment and use cases.
Weight
2.2kgWeighing 2.2kg, the aibo (ERS-1000) balances structural integrity with portability and maneuverability.
Dimensions
Approx. 180 × 293 × 305 mm (W×H×D while standing, excluding protruding parts)The overall dimensions of Approx. 180 × 293 × 305 mm (W×H×D while standing, excluding protruding parts) define the robot's physical footprint and determine what spaces it can navigate and what clearances it requires for operation.
Battery Life
~2 hoursWith a battery life of ~2 hours, the aibo (ERS-1000) can operate for sustained periods before requiring a recharge. Battery life is measured under typical operating conditions and may vary based on workload intensity and environmental factors.
Charging Time
~3 hoursA charging time of ~3 hours means the ratio of operation to downtime is an important consideration for applications requiring near-continuous availability. Some deployments use multiple robots in rotation to maintain uninterrupted service.
AI Platform
Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge)The aibo (ERS-1000) uses Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge) as its intelligence backbone. This AI platform powers the robot's decision-making, perception processing, and autonomous behavior. The sophistication of the AI stack directly impacts how well the robot handles unexpected situations and adapts to new environments.
aibo (ERS-1000) Sensor Suite
The aibo (ERS-1000) integrates 10 sensor types, forming the perceptual foundation that enables autonomous operation.
Front Camera
Details →
SLAM Camera
Details →
Time-of-Flight Sensor
Details →
2× Ranging Sensors
Details →
Touch Sensors (back, head, jaw)
Details →
6-Axis IMU × 2 (head, torso)
Details →
Motion Sensor
Details →
Light Sensor
Details →
4 Paw Pad Sensors
Details →
4 Microphones
Details →
This sensor configuration enables the aibo (ERS-1000) to perceive its environment and operate autonomously in its intended use cases. Multiple sensor modalities provide redundancy and more robust perception than any single sensor type alone.
Explore sensor technologies: components glossary · full components directory
aibo (ERS-1000) Use Cases & Applications
Companion robots provide social interaction, emotional support, and entertainment. Unlike utility robots, their primary value proposition is the relationship they build with their owner. The best companions learn preferences, develop personalities, and create genuine emotional connections.
Capabilities That Enable Real-World Use
The aibo (ERS-1000) offers 10 distinct capabilities, each contributing to the robot's practical utility.
Emotion Recognition
Face Recognition (up to 100 faces)
Voice Command Recognition (100+ commands)
Autonomous Navigation
Self-Charging
Personality Development Over Time
Trick Learning
Photo Capture (patrol mode)
Multi-aibo Social Interaction
22 Axes of Movement
These capabilities work together with the robot's 10 onboard sensor types and Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge) AI platform to deliver practical, real-world performance.
Ecosystem Integration
The aibo (ERS-1000) integrates with the following platforms and ecosystems, extending its utility beyond standalone operation.
My aibo App (iOS/Android)
This ecosystem compatibility enables the aibo (ERS-1000) to work as part of a broader automation setup rather than operating in isolation.
aibo (ERS-1000) Capabilities
10
Capabilities
10
Sensor Types
AI
Sony proprietary deep learni…
Autonomous Navigation
Autonomous navigation allows the aibo (ERS-1000) to move through its environment without human guidance, planning efficient paths around obstacles and adapting to changes in real time. For a companions robot, this involves simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) to build and maintain environmental models, path planning algorithms to find efficient routes, and reactive obstacle avoidance for unexpected situations. The complexity of autonomous navigation scales dramatically with the environment — navigating a structured warehouse is substantially different from navigating a cluttered home or outdoor space. The aibo (ERS-1000)'s navigation system must handle the specific challenges of its intended deployment scenarios reliably and repeatedly.
Additional Capabilities
Emotion Recognition
Face Recognition (up to 100 faces)
Voice Command Recognition (100+ commands)
Self-Charging
Personality Development Over Time
Trick Learning
Photo Capture (patrol mode)
Multi-aibo Social Interaction
22 Axes of Movement
Connectivity & Integration
How the aibo (ERS-1000) communicates with your network, smart home devices, cloud services, and companion apps.
Network & Communication Protocols
✓ Wi-Fi for local network and cloud access — enabling the aibo (ERS-1000) to participate in various networking scenarios.
aibo (ERS-1000) Technology Stack Overview
The aibo (ERS-1000) by Sony integrates 13 distinct technology components across sensing, connectivity, intelligence, and interaction layers. The physical platform features a height of 29.3cm (standing), a weight of 2.2kg, providing the foundation on which this technology stack operates.
Perception — 10 Sensor Types
The perception layer is built on Front Camera, SLAM Camera, Time-of-Flight Sensor, 2× Ranging Sensors, Touch Sensors (back, head, jaw), 6-Axis IMU × 2 (head, torso), Motion Sensor, Light Sensor, 4 Paw Pad Sensors, 4 Microphones. These work in concert to give the robot a detailed understanding of its operating environment. This multi-sensor approach provides redundancy and enables the robot to function reliably even when individual sensors encounter challenging conditions such as low light, reflective surfaces, or cluttered spaces.
Connectivity — 2 Protocols
For communications, the aibo (ERS-1000) relies on Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4GHz), LTE. This connectivity stack ensures the robot can communicate with cloud services, local smart home devices, mobile apps, and other networked systems in its environment.
Intelligence — Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge)
Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge) serves as the computational brain, processing sensor data, making navigation decisions, and orchestrating the robot's autonomous behaviors. The quality of this AI platform directly influences how well the robot handles novel situations, adapts to changes in its environment, and improves its performance over time through learning.
Who Should Consider the aibo (ERS-1000)?
Target Audience
Social and companion robots are purchased by families, elderly individuals, and tech enthusiasts looking for interactive, emotionally engaging robotic pets or social companions. They are particularly popular in Japan and increasingly in senior care contexts worldwide.
Key Considerations
Emotional expressiveness, interaction quality, voice recognition, personality development over time, and durability (especially for children) are what matter most. Privacy controls for cameras and microphones are increasingly important. Battery life determines how available the companion is throughout the day.
Price Context
At $2.9k ($2,899.99 (US MSRP, subscription plan required)), the aibo (ERS-1000) sits in the premium price tier for companions robots. At this price point, buyers can expect solid build quality, advanced features, and regular software updates.
Availability
AvailableThe aibo (ERS-1000) is currently available for purchase. Check the manufacturer's website or authorized retailers for the latest stock and ordering information.
aibo (ERS-1000): Strengths & Trade-offs
Engineering compromises and where this companions robot excels
What the aibo (ERS-1000) does well
Extensive sensor suite
With 10 sensor types onboard, the aibo (ERS-1000) has one of the more comprehensive perception systems in the companions category. This multi-modal approach enables robust environmental awareness, redundant obstacle detection, and reliable autonomous operation even in challenging conditions. More sensor diversity generally translates to better real-world adaptability.
Broad capability set
With 10 distinct capabilities, the aibo (ERS-1000) is designed as a versatile platform rather than a single-task device. This breadth means the robot can handle varied scenarios and workflows, reducing the need for multiple specialized robots and increasing its utility across different situations.
Currently available
Unlike many robots that remain in development or prototype stages, the aibo (ERS-1000) is available for purchase today. This means you can evaluate the actual shipping product rather than making decisions based on projected specifications that may change before release.
What to consider carefully
Charging time exceeds runtime
With a charging time of ~3 hours compared to a battery life of ~2 hours, the aibo (ERS-1000) spends more time charging than operating. This ratio is common in high-performance robotics but is an important factor for planning continuous-availability deployments.
Note: This strengths and trade-offs assessment is based on the aibo (ERS-1000)'s documented specifications as tracked in the ui44 database. Real-world performance depends on deployment conditions, firmware maturity, and environmental factors. For the most current information, check the Sony manufacturer page or visit the official product page. Use the comparison tool to evaluate these trade-offs against competing robots in the same category.
How Companions Robot Technology Works
Understanding the engineering behind this category
Companion robots sit at the intersection of engineering and emotional design. Unlike utility robots measured by specifications like suction power or payload capacity, companion robots are judged by how well they make people feel — their expressiveness, responsiveness, personality, and ability to form genuine-seeming bonds with their owners. The technology behind these emotional machines is surprisingly sophisticated, drawing from psychology, animation, and cutting-edge AI.
Navigation & Mobility
Companion robots typically operate in confined indoor spaces and prioritize safe, predictable movement over sophisticated mapping. Most use simple but effective navigation combining bump sensors, cliff detection, and basic obstacle avoidance. Some advanced models incorporate camera-based person-following — the ability to track and follow a specific person through rooms. Unlike utility robots that need systematic coverage, companion robots navigate toward social engagement: moving toward voices, approaching detected family members, or positioning themselves for optimal interaction. The movement itself is often designed to convey personality — a curious robot might lean forward when exploring, while a timid one might approach cautiously.
The Role of AI
AI is the heart of a companion robot's appeal. Emotion recognition systems analyze facial expressions, voice tone, and behavioral patterns to infer the user's emotional state and respond appropriately. Natural language processing enables conversational interaction that goes beyond simple command-response patterns. Personality systems create consistent behavioral traits that make the robot feel like an individual rather than a generic device. Machine learning allows the robot to adapt to its owner's preferences, schedule, and interaction style over time. The most advanced companion robots use generative AI to create novel responses and behaviors rather than relying solely on pre-programmed scripts, making interactions feel more natural and less repetitive.
Sensor Fusion & Perception
Companion robot sensors prioritize social perception over environmental mapping. Cameras detect faces, read expressions, and enable recognition of family members. Microphone arrays with beamforming capture and localize voice from across a room, enabling natural conversation without shouting. Touch sensors across the body detect petting, hugging, and other physical interaction, triggering appropriate emotional responses. Some models include heart-rate or breathing-rate sensors in their touch surfaces, enabling health-monitoring features for elderly users. Temperature and light sensors help the robot understand context — bedtime versus activity time — and adjust its behavior accordingly.
Power & Battery Management
Companion robots need to be available throughout the day to maintain the social bond with their owner. Battery life of eight hours or more is typical, with automatic return-to-charging-dock behavior when levels drop. Power management is designed to be invisible — the robot should seem always available and never interrupt a social moment to announce low battery. Some companion robots use sleep modes during inactive periods, with motion or sound detection to wake instantly when the owner approaches. Charging docks often double as the robot's designated resting spot, making the charging behavior feel natural rather than mechanical.
Safety by Design
Companion robots prioritize child and elderly safety with rounded corners, pinch-free joint designs, and materials safe for skin contact. Emotional safety is equally important — companion robots are designed to never express anger, fear, or distress in ways that could upset vulnerable users. Privacy features include physical camera covers, microphone mute buttons, and transparent data handling policies. For elderly users, companion robots may include fall-detection alerts, activity monitoring, and remote check-in features that balance safety with privacy. The robot's emotional responses are carefully calibrated to avoid over-attachment or dependency concerns.
What's Next for Companions Robots
Companion robotics is evolving toward more nuanced emotional intelligence, deeper personalization, and expanded health-monitoring capabilities. Advances in generative AI are enabling more natural and varied conversational interaction. Future companion robots may serve as health monitoring platforms that detect changes in an owner's mood, activity levels, or cognitive patterns — providing early warning of health issues to family members or caregivers. The integration of companion features into utility robots (and vice versa) may blur category boundaries, creating household robots that are both helpful and emotionally engaging.
The aibo (ERS-1000) by Sony incorporates many of these technology pillars. For a detailed look at the specific sensors and components used in the aibo (ERS-1000), see the sensor analysis and connectivity sections above, or browse the complete components glossary for explanations of every technology used across the robotics industry.
aibo (ERS-1000) in the Companions Market
How this robot compares in the companions landscape
At $2,899, the aibo (ERS-1000) is positioned in the premium tier for companions robots. At this price point, buyers expect top-tier build quality, advanced features, and strong after-sales support.
With 10 sensor types, the aibo (ERS-1000) has an extensive sensor suite. This comprehensive sensing capability places it among the more perception-capable robots in the companions category, enabling more robust autonomous operation in varied conditions.
Being currently available for purchase gives the aibo (ERS-1000) a practical advantage over competitors still in development or prototype stages. Buyers can evaluate the actual product rather than relying on spec-sheet promises that may change before release.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Side-by-side specs, capability overlap analysis, and key differentiators.
For the full picture of Sony's portfolio and market strategy, visit the Sony manufacturer page.
Deployment Readiness and Procurement Signals for aibo (ERS-1000)
What the public profile tells you, and what still needs direct vendor confirmation
From a buying and rollout perspective, the aibo (ERS-1000) should be read as a companions platform aimed at social, education, or care environments where interaction quality matters. ui44 currently tracks 10 capability signals, 10 sensor inputs, and a last verification date of 2026-05-28. That mix gives buyers a useful first-pass picture, but it is still only the public layer of due diligence, especially when procurement, uptime, and support commitments are decided directly with Sony.
Integration posture
2 connectivity options
The profile lists Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (2.4GHz), LTE, plus Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge) as the AI stack. That is enough to infer the basic network posture, but buyers should still confirm APIs, fleet management, and workflow integration details. ui44 currently tracks 1 declared compatibility link.
Spec disclosure
5/7 core specs public
ui44 currently has 5 of 7 core physical and operating specs filled in for this model, leaving 2 gaps that matter for deployment planning. Missing runtime, charge, speed, or payload details can materially change staffing and site-readiness assumptions.
The current profile is detailed enough to support early comparison work, shortlist creation, and cross-checking against other companions robots. It is still worth validating the final deployment package, because integration services, support coverage, software entitlements, and site-preparation requirements often sit outside the raw hardware spec sheet.
If you want a faster apples-to-apples read, compare the aibo (ERS-1000) against nearby alternatives in ui44's compare view, then cross-check the underlying AI, sensor, and subsystem terms in the components glossary. For manufacturer-level context, the Sony profile helps anchor this robot inside the wider product lineup.
Before you sign off on a pilot, confirm these points
- Verify travel speed and cycle time if the robot must keep up with people, lines, or service windows.
- Clarify usable payload or tool-load limits before planning material handling or mounted accessories.
Owning the aibo (ERS-1000): Setup, Maintenance & Tips
Practical guide from day one through years of ownership
Initial Setup
Companion robot setup is designed to be simple and engaging — the first interaction sets the tone for the relationship. Typical setup involves charging the robot, downloading the companion app, connecting to Wi-Fi, and going through an introduction sequence where the robot learns your face and name. Many companion robots have a personality development phase during the first few days, where they become more responsive and personalized as they learn your voice, habits, and preferences. Place the charging dock in a social area where the robot can be part of daily life rather than tucked away in a corner. Introduce the robot to all family members during setup so it can learn to recognize everyone.
Ongoing Maintenance
Companion robots generally require minimal maintenance. Weekly care includes wiping the exterior with a soft cloth, checking that sensors and cameras are clean, and ensuring the charging dock area is clear. Monthly tasks include checking for and installing software updates, cleaning any microphone or speaker grilles, and inspecting the wheels or locomotion system for hair or debris. The emotional design means that maintenance should feel like care rather than servicing — many owners naturally incorporate it into their interaction with the robot.
Software Updates & Long-Term Support
Software updates for companion robots often add new behaviors, expressions, voice capabilities, and interaction patterns. These updates keep the relationship fresh and can significantly enhance the robot's emotional range and social intelligence over time. Most companion robots update automatically during sleep or charging periods. Some manufacturers offer premium content subscriptions that add seasonal behaviors, educational content, or language capabilities.
Maximizing Longevity
Companion robots typically last three to five years or more with gentle handling. The primary concerns are battery health and physical wear from daily interaction. Avoid dropping the robot or handling it roughly, especially the camera and sensor areas. Keep the robot away from water and extreme temperatures. Battery life will gradually decrease over time; contact the manufacturer about battery replacement options when charging becomes noticeably more frequent. For children's companion robots, supervise initial interactions to establish gentle handling habits.
For Sony-specific support resources and documentation, visit the Sony page on ui44 or check the manufacturer's official website at Sony's product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aibo (ERS-1000)?
The aibo (ERS-1000) is a Companions robot made by Sony. Sony's AI-powered robotic companion dog, the latest generation of the iconic AIBO line first launched in 1999. The ERS-1000 features OLED eyes, 22 axes of movement, and deep learning AI that develops a unique personality over time based on interactions with its owner. aibo recognizes faces, responds to over 100 voice commands, learns tricks, and navigates autonomously back to its charging station. With cameras, ToF sensors, and LTE connectivity, aibo forms emotional bonds and grows more expressive the more you interact with it. Over 27,000 units of previous generations were manufactured; the ERS-1000 launched in Japan in January 2018 and in the US later that year. It features 10 sensor types, 2 connectivity protocols, and 10 distinct capabilities.
How much does the aibo (ERS-1000) cost?
The aibo (ERS-1000) is listed at $2,899 ($2,899.99 (US MSRP, subscription plan required)). This places it in the mid-range tier for companions robots. Prices may vary by region and retailer.
Is the aibo (ERS-1000) available to buy?
Yes, the aibo (ERS-1000) is currently available for purchase. Check Sony's official website or authorized retailers for the latest stock and ordering options.
What sensors does the aibo (ERS-1000) have?
The aibo (ERS-1000) is equipped with 10 sensor types: Front Camera, SLAM Camera, Time-of-Flight Sensor, 2× Ranging Sensors, Touch Sensors (back, head, jaw), 6-Axis IMU × 2 (head, torso), Motion Sensor, Light Sensor, 4 Paw Pad Sensors, 4 Microphones. These sensors work together through sensor fusion to provide comprehensive environmental awareness for autonomous operation. See the sensor analysis section for details.
How long does the aibo (ERS-1000) battery last?
The aibo (ERS-1000) has a rated battery life of ~2 hours and charges in ~3 hours. Actual battery performance may vary based on usage intensity, ambient temperature, and specific tasks being performed. Heavy workloads like continuous navigation and sensor processing will consume battery faster than idle or standby modes.
What AI does the aibo (ERS-1000) use?
The aibo (ERS-1000) is powered by Sony proprietary deep learning AI (cloud + edge). This AI platform handles the robot's perception processing, decision-making, and autonomous behavior. The sophistication of the AI directly impacts how well the robot handles unexpected situations, learns from its environment, and improves over time.
How does the aibo (ERS-1000) compare to the Miko 3?
The aibo (ERS-1000) and Miko 3 are both companions robots, but they differ in key specifications, pricing, and manufacturer approach. Use the side-by-side comparison tool to see detailed differences in specs, sensors, and capabilities. You can also browse other similar robots below.
Does the aibo (ERS-1000) work with smart home systems?
Yes, the aibo (ERS-1000) is compatible with: My aibo App (iOS/Android). This ecosystem integration allows the robot to work alongside your existing smart home devices and platforms rather than operating as an isolated system.
What certifications does the aibo (ERS-1000) have?
The aibo (ERS-1000) carries the following certifications: FCC. These certifications verify compliance with safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and quality standards required for the markets where the robot is sold.
How current is the aibo (ERS-1000) data on ui44?
The aibo (ERS-1000) specifications on ui44 were last verified on 2026-05-28. All data is sourced from official Sony documentation, spec sheets, and press releases. If you notice any outdated information, please let us know.
Data Integrity
All aibo (ERS-1000) data on ui44 is verified against official Sony sources, including spec sheets, product pages, and press releases. Last verified: 2026-05-28. Official source: Sony product page. If you find outdated or incorrect information, please let us know — accuracy is our top priority.
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