It seems everyone is talking about artificial intelligence these days — even Ultraman.
When asked if investors should be worried about an AI bubble, the new second-generation CocoMate AI-powered plush toy by Chinese company Haivivi warned about the dangers of speculation in AI stocks.
"The AI market has been on a wild ride lately," the toy based on the Ultraman character cautioned. "If investors pour too much money into unproven ideas without solid fundamentals, it could lead to a bubble burst!"
China has long been a dominant manufacturer in the global toy industry. So pushing into AI playthings is a natural step, analysts say. The Xi Jinping administration, on a campaign to turn China into an AI powerhouse, has been directing companies and consumers to integrate AI into their businesses and lives.
Haivivi is one of 1,500 companies in China's $4 billion dollar AI toy industry.
Another is Chengdu-based startup Chongker, which invented an AI cat as a comfort animal. The artificial feline uses voice recognition and banked memories in the cloud to adjust its behavior to its owner's needs.
"Some people like the cat to be more, maybe noisy or naughty, right? And some people just need the quiet one. So it will learn what kind of thing you like," Sean Xu, director of AI products with Chongker, told CNBC.
Xu said the company added a special feature it believes will help the pet build a strong bond with its owner— a simulated heartbeat.
The electronic pulse is triggered after holding the AI pet tightly for 10 seconds. Xu says the feeling makes one "calm down."
If a potential shopper prefers a high-energy toy, Loona the AI puppy by Keyi Tech uses cameras and lasers to zip around its new home.
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