Panasonic's Nicobo is a pricey robot cat that farts whenever it feels like it

It's still really cute, though.
Panasonic's Nicobo is a pricey robot cat that farts whenever it feels like it

I've officially reached the point in quarantine where a farting cat robot has claimed the number one spot on my wish list. I'm specifically talking about Nicobo — Panasonic's very own companion robot.

First spotted by Gizmodo, Nicobo doesn't really do much other than wag its tail, turn around, blink its little eyes, and talk a bit. Oh, and it also farts when the mood strikes. It also looks more like a stuffed sock than it does a cat, but it's still very cute regardless.

Hidden on the inside, however, are some pretty advanced features. Using built-in microphones and cameras, Nicobo can recognize your face and voice as well as turn towards you. And, with touch sensors, it knows when you're petting it or hugging it.

However, securing your own Nicobo isn't as simple as hitting the "order" button. According to Gizmodo, Panasonic only plans on making 320 units for around $360 each, all of which have already sold out on pre-order. Production on these sock robots hasn't started yet either — the company is attempting to raise 10,000,000 YEN (about $95,000) through crowdfunding first.

And, just when you thought spending over $300 was enough for Nicobo, you're stuck with additional expenses. After six months with it, you'll have to shell out about $10 a month to connect it to your smartphone and to also receive software updates.

I probably wouldn't say this if any other product were that expensive, but for a lil companion like Nicobo, the money weirdly seems worth it. Then again, maybe I just need to leave my apartment more often.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
Score $402 off the Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Mirrorless Camera before it completely sells out
The Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera against a colorful background.

These are the top 4 robot vacuums for carpet after passing the cat hair test on my rugs
Dreame X60 Max Ultra Complete robot vacuum cleaning carpeted floor in living room

The PetSafe ScoopFree is a budget Litter-Robot alternative if your cat hates enclosed litter boxes
Cat stepping into litter box and cat sitting on toilet beside litter box

Get the budget-priced Eufy 11S Max robot vacuum for 50% off
Eufy 11S Max robot vacuum on pink and orange abstract background


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone


NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 2, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!