In the mid 90's, Sony's Digital Creatures Laboratory in Japan had a simple goal: create a multi-legged, soccer-playing robot that could be used by consumers and researchers alike. In 1999, Sony released their first Artificial Intelligence robot: the AIBO ERS-110. AIBO could walk and stand on its own, react to being patted on the head, get up after falling down, and track its favorite toy ball with a color camera. Over time, Sony released new models of AIBO with upgraded capabilities such as LAN access, voice recognition, facial recognition, self-charging, and the addition of numerous touch sensors on the body. Sadly, Sony discontinued AIBO in 2006 due to financial restrictions. My love of AIBO began with Jodie, my ERS-311.