Sony launches EyePet - electronic pet for people too lazy for the real thing!

Japan Herald (ANI) Friday 23rd October, 2009

London, Oct 23 : Looking for a pet that doesn't leave a dirty litter tray or cry for walks in the rain? Well, then Sony's EyePet might put an end to your search.

The EyePet is a computer game that enables players to view themselves on screen with their virtual animal in their living room.

They are filmed by video camera connected to a PlayStation 3 console and can give commands to their creatures simply by moving around in front of their TV screens.

"By completing daily tasks, you can teach your EyePet brand new games to play," the Telegraph quoted a Sony spokesman as saying.

"The more he learns the more exciting new tasks you'll get to teach him. EyePet is fully aware of people in the room and will play with you and your family in your home.

"Poke him and he jumps, stroke him and he'll roll over in contentment, tickle him and he'll laugh," he added.

The virtual animal reacts to voices and gestures and can recognise objects, such as toys, that a player puts on screen

It follows popular hits such as the Tamagotchi, cyber-pets on hand-held mini-consoles.