A growing number of children in China are using smart AI pets to help with social anxiety and emotional support, according to the South China Morning Post. One such pet, called BooBoo, is a furry, guinea pig-like toy that moves around. Since May 2024, 1,000 units of BooBoo have been sold.

Zhang Yachun, a 19-year-old girl, shared that having a BooBoo has made her life easier. She has always found it difficult to make friends and deal with anxiety at school.

Zhang Yachun, who lives with her parents and a real pet duck, shared with the South China Morning Post that her AI pet, which she named “Aluo,” has brought her comfort. “I feel like I now have someone to share the happy times with,” she said. Aluo, the size of a rugby ball, even gets treated to winter clothes. Zhang added, “It makes you feel like you’re someone who is needed.”

As more young people turn to "smart pets" for emotional support, the global market for social robots like BooBoo is expected to grow significantly, reaching $42.5 billion by 2033, according to the South China Morning Post.
Zhang Yachun’s father, Peng, 51, understands her bond with Aluo. He said, “When we were young, we didn’t lack friends. We had plenty as soon as we stepped out the door. But now, children in cities seem to face more pressure, so they may not have as many friends."

The desire for these robotic companions isn't just limited to young people. Guo Zichen, 33, mentioned that smart pets also help him when he can’t play with his child. While looking at a robotic puppy in a store in Nanjing, he said, “Right now, family members are spending less time with children. Buying one for my kid can help with studying and other things.”

Guo Zichen also believes that while AI pets are helpful, they cannot replace real pets.
Weilan, the company that provides four-legged robots for consumers, reports that 70% of their customers are families with young children. Their AI dog, BabyAlpha, is priced between 8,000 and 26,000 yuan, which is approximately Rs 95,000 to Rs 3 lakh.