ai
iRobot Co-Founder Colin Angle Launches Boston Startup Selling AI-Powered Robotic Bear Companion
Familiar Machines & Magic has raised $30 million to sell a four-legged, abstract bear-shaped robot named the Familiar next year. The pet-inspired machine offers companionship and emotional support without speaking, using onboard AI trained by Hollywood screenwriters. Angle, who left iRobot in 2024, targets older adults and wellness-focused consumers.
May 12, 5:00 AM·2m read1 source
foxnews.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Colin Angle has founded Familiar Machines & Magic in Boston to commercialize a four-legged, pet-inspired robot designed as an abstract bear. The company, which has raised $30 million in funding, plans to start selling its robot next year. The robot is named the Familiar, a reference to supernatural animal companions associated with witches.
The Familiar is meant to offer companionship, emotional support, and gentle nudges toward healthier routines. "The Familiar is a pet-inspired robot that lives in your home, pays attention to you and your world, and supports you as an attentive physical presence that coaches you toward healthy routines," Colin Angle told Business Insider.
" Familiar Machines recruited talent from iRobot, Boston Dynamics, and Disney.
The company hired Hollywood screenwriters to create stories that define the Familiar's character. Those stories were used to train the AI model that powers the robot. The Familiar does not speak but understands human speech and responds in an emotionally intelligent way.
It is layered in sensors so it can respond to touch. "Our coat is beautiful to touch," Colin Angle said. In the near term, Familiar Machines plans to market the robot to older adults who want some of the benefits of a pet without the responsibilities, as well as consumers looking to support their own well-being.
The robot's upfront price will be comparable to buying a pet, Colin Angle stated. Over time, the company hopes to license its AI to other companies. Angle left iRobot in 2024 after more than three decades.
