Entropy always wins. People think of robots as a way to cheat time — a robot companion, unlike a living one, won't grow old, right? But how many people still have thirty-year-old cars — or twenty-year-old computers? How long can (or should) manufacturers provide parts and maintenance, and what does it mean when they stop?
It's an interesting emotional and ethical consideration as robotics and AI advance. (And particularly apropos after reading the wrap-up of the Luna Brothers' Alex + Ada series this week.)
Sony’s Robotic Dogs Are Dying A Slow And Heartbreaking Death
Back in 1999, Sony released a robotic dog called Aibo, a canine companion that didn’t crap everywhere and only ate electricity. It sold pretty well — 150,000 units, despite the $2,000 price tag. Some owners became remarkably attached, which makes it even more sad that Sony has stopped repairing Aibo. Slowly but surely, they’re all dying.
If only this were real.
http://www.pghrobotrepair.com/location.html