SwitchBot’s AI Partner Robot ‘KATA Friends’ Receives Major Update: Adds ‘Chikyu-go Mode’ Conversation Feature, New ‘Eyes,’ and Nickname Functionality

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Update Details

1. Conversation Feature: ‘Chikyu-go Mode’

The update introduces ‘Chikyu-go Mode,’ enabling KATA Friends to engage in conversations. By simply saying “Let’s talk,” a conversation can begin, with the robot responding in its newly learned “Chikyu-go.” This mode supports both Japanese and English.

Woman interacting with KATA Friends

Leveraging LLM (Large Language Model) technology, KATA Friends can now understand casual remarks and respond in its own words.

App screen showing Chikyu-go Mode settings

App screen showing detailed settings including Chikyu-go Mode

Conversation data is securely processed in an encrypted communication environment. Strict data protection standards are maintained to protect user privacy.

2. New Eye Designs: ‘Kohaku’ and ‘Tokimeki’

Two new eye designs, ‘Tokimeki’ and ‘Kohaku,’ have been added in response to user requests for more expressions. ‘Tokimeki’ features a bright, adorable heart design, while ‘Kohaku’ offers a gentle, warm amber glow. These additions expand the existing ‘Aozora,’ ‘Hoshizora,’ and ‘Sakura’ designs, bringing the total to five. Users can choose their favorite design to further personalize their KATA Friends.

KATA Friends with new eye designs Tokimeki and Kohaku

More eye designs are expected to be introduced in the future.

3. Nickname Function: Giving KATA Friends a Special Name

KATA Friends can now respond when called by a name or nickname set in the app. This feature allows the robot to happily respond when its name is called, fostering a deeper connection. A personalized name is expected to make KATA Friends an even more cherished presence.

People interacting with KATA Friends calling out names

Nicknames should be set according to the KATA Friends unit’s language settings. For Japanese settings, names should be 3-6 hiragana characters and 2-4 syllables.

Welcome Campaign Underway

A special campaign offers new KATA Friends owners a free 6-month subscription to the “Light Plan” (valued at 11,880 JPY). This campaign has been extended until June 12, 2026 (Friday).

KATA Friends Welcome Campaign banner

  • Campaign Period: April 17, 2026 (Friday) – June 12, 2026 (Friday)

  • Benefit: Free 6 months of KATA Friends Lifestyle Plan “Light Plan” (valued at 11,880 JPY)

  • Eligibility: Those who purchase KATA Friends from an authorized retailer during the campaign period and complete its addition to the SwitchBot app.

  • Campaign Details: https://switchbot.vip/4d53eOJ

The “Lifestyle Plan” is a monthly service essential for KATA Friends’ basic activities, conversations, and growth.

Official Content Information

Development stories and user experiences of KATA Friends are shared on official social media channels and note. Questions and requests from customers are addressed through regular Q&A sessions, with feedback incorporated into future development.

About KATA Friends

KATA Friends is an AI-powered partner robot developed by SwitchBot, designed to go beyond convenience to connect with users on an emotional level. It responds to words and interactions with lifelike behavior, growing with the time spent together to become a unique family member.

KATA Friends robot waving

  • Unit Price: 129,800 JPY (tax included)

    • A subscription to the KATA Friends Lifestyle Plan is required to utilize KATA Friends’ features.

    • Payment Options:

    • Installment payments are available.

    • Credit card installment payments (up to 24 times / SB Payment Service)

    • Post-payment “Atokara” (up to 36 times, installment fees free up to 24 times)

  • Lifestyle Plan: From 1,980 JPY (tax included) / month (for Light Plan)

  • Lineup (2 types): Noah (white x grey) / Nico (grey x white)

  • Sales Channels:

About SWITCHBOT Inc.

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