Samsung unveils new AI robot companion Ballie - after predecessor blasted as 'creepy'

Samsung unveiled a new AI robot at this year's CES technology convention in Las Vegas.

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Fans of the brand may recognise the new Ballie bot as a more advanced version of its predecessor that faced a backlash in 2020.

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The original Ballie was blasted as "inherently sinister" by critics with some finding the fact it was shown watching its owners sleeping unnerving.

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Samsung's new Ballie is pitched as a friendly personal assistant that follows you around the home at your request.

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It can greet you by using its lights and cameras to shine messages onto the floor or wall while connecting to, and managing, home appliances.

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It's claimed Ballie can also mind your pets and send you updates about them while you're at work.

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The tech giant says the device will continually learn from users’ patterns and habits "to provide smarter, more personalized services".

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