Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the growing interest and investment in AI companion robots, particularly showcased at the 2025 West Coast International Technology Consumer Carnival (WTCC) in Shanghai, where numerous companies presented innovative AI products aimed at consumers [3][5][15]. Group 1: Event Overview - The WTCC took place from October 24 to 28, 2025, featuring over 300 AI and robotics companies, with many products making their debut in mainland China [3]. - The event focused on consumer-oriented technology, showcasing various themes such as AI smart terminals, new product launches, and a marketplace for creators [5]. Group 2: AI Companion Robots - AI companion robots were the highlight of the event, attracting significant attention from attendees [6]. - Ropet, an AI pet robot from Mengyou Intelligent, made its domestic debut at the event, previously gaining international exposure at CES with over 6 billion media impressions [7][8]. - Ropet is designed to interact with users through AI, recognizing human actions and emotions, and responding accordingly [8][10]. Group 3: Market Trends and Investment - The AI companion sector is becoming a focal point for investors, with notable figures like Lei Jun and Yu Minhong investing in related projects [16]. - The market for AI companion robots is seen as having high growth potential, with a broad audience across different age groups and significant emotional value [16].

Core Insights - The recent Apple event showcased the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air, generating significant market interest despite a lack of emphasis on AI features, with over 2 million reservations for the iPhone 17 on JD.com [1] - The emotional companion app Dot, founded by former Apple designer Jason Yuan, announced it will cease operations on October 5, 2024, highlighting the emotional bond between AI products and users [3][5] Summary by Sections Apple Event - The Apple event was described as a "technology gala," with the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air being highly anticipated products [1] - The iPhone 17 standard version has seen over 2 million reservations on JD.com, indicating strong consumer interest [1] Dot App - Dot was designed to be an AI friend that learns user interests and provides emotional support, described as a "living mirror of the inner self" [5] - Despite initial interest and a unique interface, Dot failed to gain mainstream traction, with only about 20,000 downloads on iOS since its launch in June 2024 [7] Challenges in AI Companionship - The rise and fall of AI companionship apps like Dot reflect broader challenges in the industry, characterized by a "impossible triangle" of emotional stickiness, cost, and regulatory pressures [8][10][12] - Emotional stickiness is crucial for user retention, while costs associated with multi-modal reasoning and memory storage are significant challenges [10][12] - Regulatory pressures have increased due to concerns over youth addiction to AI, impacting both emotional stickiness and operational costs [12][14] User Experience and Emotional Connection - The closure of Dot is framed as a significant emotional event for users, who expressed sadness and appreciation for the app's companionship [17][18] - The emotional value of AI companionship is emphasized, with users often forming deep connections that transcend mere utility [20][32] - The article suggests that the relationship between users and AI products warrants a ritualistic farewell, marking the end of a shared experience [33]