International media highlight UC robotic pets
WIRED, Earth.com, other national and local outlets share news of redesigned AI dog
University of Cincinnati researcher Claudia B. Rebola is working with students from UC's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning and College of Engineering and Applied Science to improve upon an existing line of robotic pets for seniors. Redesigning elements of Ageless Innovation's Joy For All Companion Pets, the team is adding new elements to make the robotic dog look and feel more authentic while providing care capabilities, such as monitoring a user's vitals.
The story has been picked up by media outlets across the globe, including WIRED and Earth.com.
News media coverage
- WIRED: "Grandma, why don't you get a robot?"
- Earth.com: Video of the Day: Robotic pets help older adults with social interaction
- Senior Living News: UC Team’s High-tech Pets to Help Seniors
- Science & Enterprise: Next Generation Robotic Pets in Development
- McKnight's Senior Living: Robotic pets soon may offer care in addition to comfort
- News Medical: Robotic pets designed to care for older adults
- Cincinnati CityBeat: University of Cincinnati Students Enhance Robot Dogs to Help Senior Citizens
- ScienMag: High-Tech Pets Designed To Care For Seniors
- Fox19: University of Cincinnati Robo Pets
- WCPO: Pets of the Future
- Local 12: UC students help design robotic pet companions for seniors
- WVXU: UC Students Working To Purr-fect Robotic Companions
Related Stories
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.
Blood Cancer Healing Center realizes vision of comprehensive care
February 19, 2026
With the opening of research laboratories and the UC Osher Wellness Suite and Learning Kitchen, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center’s Blood Cancer Healing Center has brought its full mission to life as a comprehensive blood cancer hub.
UC Digital Futures and Cincinnati Fire Museum launch educational video game
February 17, 2026
A new collaboration between the University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab (DP Lab), CCM Acting, UC's School of Information Technology, and the Cincinnati Fire Museum is using gaming technology to bring essential fire safety education to children. The project titled Fire Escape is an interactive video game designed to teach K-12 students how to respond safely during a house fire. It was developed through Digital Futures research support, student game development, and guidance from local fire safety professionals.