Sony (sony.com) Sony Aibo
by Sony · January 2018
Sony Aibo is an AI-powered robotic companion dog that learns and adapts to its owner over time. The 2018 relaunch of the iconic Aibo brand brought cloud-connected AI, significantly improving its personality development and emotional responsiveness compared to the original 1999 model.
Capabilities
Specifications
Physical
Performance
Power & Battery
Sensing & Perception
Computing & AI
Connectivity
Pricing and Availability
This robot is currently available for purchase from the manufacturer or authorized retailers.
Price last verified: March 2026
AI, Data & Privacy
Good - EU data processing option available
This robot offers multi-region cloud processing, which typically includes EU-based server options. EU residents may be able to ensure their data stays within EU borders, though this depends on the specific configuration. Check the manufacturer's privacy policy for region selection details.
How to keep it private
Aibo functions without Wi-Fi or the AI Cloud Plan, but with significantly reduced capabilities. Without cloud, Aibo can perform basic pre-loaded actions, walk around, and respond to touch, but it will not learn, develop a unique personality, or recognize faces. The physical network switch behind the torso lid completely disables all network connectivity.
Available privacy controls
Physical network switch behind the torso lid completely disables all Wi-Fi and network connectivity when set to OFF
Initialization clears all data including memories, learned behaviors, owner associations, and settings with no way to restore
Before transferring Aibo to another person, initialization prevents unauthorized access to personal data
Use the physical network switch behind the torso lid to completely disable network connectivity for maximum privacy. Be aware that Aibo collects facial recognition data, room measurements, and interaction data when connected to the cloud. Without the AI Cloud Plan, the robot still functions but loses personality learning and face recognition. Always perform a factory reset before transferring the robot to a new owner. Review the My Aibo app permissions carefully.
What this means for EU residents
Cloud AI services operated in the United States and Japan. Facial recognition data collected as part of automated backup process. Machine learning processed server-side for personality development. Sony is the GDPR data controller for EEA/UK users.
Based on
Aibo Privacy Policy (2026-03-29)What the AI can do 7 capabilities
Security features 2 features
- encrypted-cloud-communication
- gdpr-data-controller-designation
Configurability details App Only
My Aibo app for personality settings, photo viewing, and trick management. AI Cloud Plan subscription required for full cloud AI features. No public SDK or API. Closed consumer ecosystem.
Research notice
The information above is compiled from manufacturer documentation, published privacy policies, independent security research, and community findings as of the dates listed in our sources. AI capabilities, privacy features, and data handling practices may change with firmware updates or policy revisions. We make every effort to be accurate, but errors are possible. Always do your own research before purchasing. Check the manufacturer's latest privacy policy and terms of service directly for the most current information.
Related Articles
Sources
All information on this page is based on the following sources. Links open in a new tab.
- Sony Aibo Official Website - accessed 2026-03-01
- Sony Aibo Specifications - accessed 2026-03-01
- Aibo Privacy Policy - accessed 2026-03-29
- Aibo AI Cloud Plan - accessed 2026-03-29