Vstone Co., Ltd. Develops “Ugokun,” an Existence Emphasizing Device that Moves Characters to Sound

Gadgets

Key Features

1. Imparting “Actual Moving Presence” to Any Character

The “Ugokun” existence emphasizing device features a stage platform designed to secure various objects. This stage performs vertical and rotational movements in response to sound, enabling effects such as a character appearing to move while speaking.

In recent years, diverse hobby activities like “oshi-katsu” (supporting favorite characters) and “nui-katsu” (activities with plushies) have become popular, often described as breathing life into characters. “Ugokun” offers a new option for these character-focused activities, and its user-friendly robotic technology is expected to contribute to the further invigoration of existing cultural practices.

Yellow triceratops plushie on a black speaker

2. Operation as a Simple Bluetooth Audio Device

By default, “Ugokun” functions as a Bluetooth audio device. It can be used with a wide range of playback devices, including PCs and smartphones, without requiring complex setup or development.

This feature allows users to enhance the presence and realism of virtual characters, such as VTubers, by simply placing a smartphone playing a VTuber video onto the device.

Smartphone on a speaker dock

3. Equipped with ESP32 for Internal Program Development

“Ugokun” incorporates the ESP32-WROOM-32E-N8 microcontroller as its main processor, supporting the development and implementation of user-specific programs. By integrating with external devices, it is possible to implement advanced functionalities, such as the device turning to face an arriving visitor. This capability is expected to find broad application in various settings, including retail stores, where increased attention could contribute to reducing food waste.

A video demonstrating motion implementation examples with external devices is available here:

Exhibition Schedule

The “Ugokun” existence emphasizing device is scheduled for live demonstration at the following event:

  • Event Name: Osaka Prefecture Robot Open Innovation Promotion Project Kickoff Seminar “The Forefront of Robot Business in the Physical AI Era! ~New Era of Robot Industry~”

  • Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 13:30

  • Location: JAM BASE Conference 5-1, 5-2, 5th Floor, Grand Green Osaka North Building

Speaker with a small potted plant

Product Video

Another video showcasing “Ugokun” can be viewed here:

Product Specifications

Item Specification
Size (contracted) 120×170×70 [mm]
Weight Approx. 650 g
Degrees of Freedom 2 axes (vertical movement range: 35mm, horizontal rotation angle: ±150 degrees)
Maximum Load Capacity 500 g (reference value, not guaranteed)
Speaker Output 10 W
Interface USB serial, Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11b/11g/11n), Bluetooth (Bluetooth Classic, BLE 4.2)
Power Supply AC 100 V
  • This product is for indoor use only and is not intended for outdoor use.

  • Product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

  • Attachment specifications are planned to be released.

Contact Information

Vstone Co., Ltd.
2-15-28 Goshikijima, Nishiyodogawa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka 555-0012, Japan
E-mail: infodesk@vstone.co.jp
Website: https://www.vstone.co.jp/

For more information, visit:

Vstone and Robot Shop are registered trademarks of Vstone Co., Ltd.
ESP32 is a registered trademark of Espressif Systems.
Bluetooth® is a registered trademark or trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. USA.
Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance.
Other product names and proper nouns mentioned are generally registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies.

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