SwitchBot AI Partner Robot “KATA Friends” Now Available for Rental on Rentio, Allowing “Compatibility Testing” at Home Before Purchase

SWITCHBOT Corporation, a leading IoT and smart home brand, has announced the availability of its AI partner robot, “KATA Friends,” for rental through the Rentio service, effective June 19, 2026. This initiative allows potential owners to experience KATA Friends in their own homes, enabling them to evaluate its interaction with family members, pets, and overall integration into their daily lives before making a purchase decision.

Rental Service Overview

The KATA Friends rental service offers flexible plans designed to suit various needs:

One-time Plan:
- New product: From 10,980 yen (tax included)
- Inspected pre-owned product: From 9,980 yen (tax included)
Monthly Plan:
- New product: From 11,980 yen (tax included) per month
- Inspected pre-owned product: From 9,980 yen (tax included) per month

The “KATA Friends Lifestyle Plan” (software fee) is included in the rental price, ensuring a comprehensive experience from day one. For detailed information on availability, rental periods, fees, shipping, return methods, extensions, and purchase options, please refer to the Rentio product page.

KATA Friends Rental Service Details: https://switchbot.vip/3Q3qAeK
Rentio Product Page: https://www.rentio.jp/products/katafriends/variants/katafriends-g

“Trial Living” to Address Pre-Purchase Concerns

Many individuals interested in KATA Friends have expressed questions such as “How will it fit into my home?” or “How will my family and pets react?” The Rentio rental service directly addresses these concerns by providing an opportunity for “trial living.” Users can assess interactions, family and pet dynamics, and how KATA Friends integrates into their living space—factors that can only truly be understood through direct experience.

This trial is particularly recommended for families wishing to test compatibility, individuals who cannot own pets but desire companionship, those curious about life with an AI robot, or anyone considering KATA Friends as a gift.

Full KATA Friends Experience During Rental

During the rental period, users can enjoy the same features as a purchased KATA Friends unit. This includes engaging in daily conversations, customizing its eyes and voice, and experiencing its loving reactions to touch and interaction. The rental allows for a deeper understanding of KATA Friends’ presence in a home environment, which cannot be fully grasped through store displays or videos.

Furthermore, by linking with compatible SwitchBot products, users can utilize KATA Friends’ “assistance function” to control home appliances and check their status through voice commands. Please note that some features may require internet connectivity or compatible SwitchBot devices. For details on supported devices and conditions, consult the official website and Rentio product page.

Lifestyle Plan Included for Immediate Enjoyment

The “KATA Friends Lifestyle Plan,” which covers software usage fees, is included in the rental cost. This means no additional applications are required, and users can begin interacting with KATA Friends immediately upon delivery. The application process is straightforward: simply select a rental plan from the Rentio product page. Information regarding returns, extensions, and purchase considerations can be found on the Rentio product page and user guide.

About KATA Friends

KATA Friends is an AI-powered partner robot developed by SwitchBot, designed to go beyond mere convenience and connect with the heart. It responds to words and touch with natural behaviors, growing unique to each owner over time, becoming a new member of the family.

Body Price: 129,800 yen (tax included)
Lifestyle Plan: From 1,980 yen (tax included) per month (for the Lite Plan)
Lineup (2 types):
- Noah: White fur with a gentle gray face.
- Nico: Soft gray fur with an endearing white face.
Payment Options:
- Credit card installment payments (up to 24 times via SB Payment Service)
- “Atokara” deferred payment (up to 36 times, with 24 interest-free installments)
Sales Channels:
- SwitchBot Official Website: https://switchbot.vip/4dTA18g
- Amazon Official Store: https://switchbot.vip/4uORLca
- Rakuten SwitchBot Official Store: https://switchbot.vip/3RE24kZ
- Yahoo! SWITCHBOT Official Shop: https://switchbot.vip/43apxN7
- National Electronics Retailers: https://switchbot.vip/3Qp3GP3

KATA Friends Referral Program

The “KATA Friends Referral Program” is currently underway, allowing owners to share the joy of KATA Friends with family and friends. Referrers can receive up to 10% of the purchase price as a reward, while those referred can purchase KATA Friends related products at a 5% discount.