PROTEXT: Sony further expands its product line of AIBO

Entertainment Robots by debuting new models "LATTE" and "MACARON"* Orders for new models will be accepted over the internet andtelephone

LONDON/BERLIN, Sept 5 (PROTEXT/PRNewswire) - Underscoring itsvision to bring a new form of entertainment into every Europeanhousehold, Sony Entertainment Robot Europe today announced thelaunch of a new line of entertainment robots,to be known as the AIBO LM series [ERS-311/312].Named "LATTE" and "MACARON" to reflect their respective hue,robots in the AIBO LM series include new features such as a 75-word vocabulary, increased photo-taking options, new AIBO tonallanguage options as well as interactive sensors. The new AIBO LMseries will be available in ivory (LATTE) and grey (MACARON).Pre-sale orders will be accepted starting on Oct. 1, with theloveable new models made available through the internet(www.aibo.com) from beginning of November.With its distinct design, developed by world-renowned visualcreator Katsura Moshino, the AIBO LM series is differentiatedfrom its predecessors by its friendlier, more cuddly look. Sonyexpects this design concept to expand the appeal of the productto a broader market. "The AIBO LM series marks the beginning of aproduct line-up expansion, which addresses the future role ofhome entertainment robotics and covers the desire of a broaderand diversified range of consumers," said Nicolas Babin, GeneralManager of Sony Entertainment Robot Europe. "The sales of boththe 1st and 2nd generation AIBO helped us grasp customers'motivations for their purchase and understand their requirements.In addition, Sony identified the expectations from the market foran even more interactive and "softer" character of AIBO,alongside the current models. Therefore, we are confident thatthe new series will significantly contribute to deliver on ourvision of enhancing the world of entertainment robots," he added.The new series features touch sensors on the head and under thepaws, similar to the popular 2nd Generation AIBO [ERS-210],providing for varying degrees of response and contact as well asa new tail sensor. The new robots are equipped with 15 degrees offreedom (head x 3, 4 legs x 3), enabling smooth body movement,along with a tail switch for friendly interaction. Users areable to develop AIBO's personality with progressive interaction.The AIBO LM series introduces several new features forinteraction, including an RGB (red, green, blue) light on therobot's head that produces multi-coloured independent blinkingilluminations. This allows the robot to express a variety ofemotions. As with the current AIBO entertainment robot in themarket [ERS-210/ERS-111], AIBO's motions are driven by the SonyMemory Stick Software."AIBO Life" AIBO-ware SoftwareAIBO acts as a fully autonomous robot that makes independentdecisions about its own actions and behaviour through the MemoryStick software application called "AIBO Life". With the use of"AIBO Life", the robot has the ability to mature from infant toadult learning new behaviours based on increased interaction withhumans and its environment."AIBO Pal" AIBO-ware SoftwareThe "AIBO Pal" software brings to life a fully mature companion,allowing users to immediately experience the full range of matureAIBO features. As with the popular "AIBO Life" software, usersare able to develop the personality of their own robots withprogressive interaction, without spending time to raise an AIBOto maturity."AIBO Life" / "AIBO Pal" Key FeaturesVoice Recognition: :: 75-word vocabulary :: Learns and responds to the name it is given :: Learns the name of its ownerPhoto Taking Capabilities: :: Saves JPEG images onto Memory Stick upon command :: Motion detection photography ("AIBO Pal" only)This feature enables AIBO to take a photo if it detects a motionwith its built-in camera, while seated on an energy stationTonal Language: :: AIBO Melody: Control AIBO's pitch with hand motions :: Humming Mode: Compose a melody with AIBO :: Mimic Mode: AIBO will repeat your words in its tonal language :: Interacts and responds to other AIBO robots (LM series, AIBO2nd Generation [ERS-210])AIBO Entertainment Robot LM Series Includes:AIBO [ERS-311/12] Robot, Stand, AC Adapter, Special Lithium IonBattery,Pink Ball and Manual.AIBO LM Series Accessories (sold separately)A variety of AIBO-ware Memory Stick applications. :: AIBO Life [ERF-301AW01]: Autonomous Application Software :: AIBO Pal [ERF-301AW06]: Mature Software :: Energy Station Core [ERA-301P2] :: Portable Charger [ERA-301P4] :: Special Lithium Ion Battery [ERA-301B1] :: Carrying Bag [ERA-210C1]Sales Schedule :: Pre-Order: Begins Oct. 1, 2001 :: Purchase: AIBO/ Delivery: From beginning of November 2001 :: Price: EUR 980 (excl. VAT)How to Purchase an AIBO ERS-311/312 :: Internet: http://www.aibo.com :: Telephone (Monday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm CET):English line: +44-20-73 65 29 38German line: +49-69-95 08 63 10French line: +33-1-55 69 51 18About SonySony manufactures audio, video, communications and informationtechnology products for the global consumer and professionalmarkets. With its music, pictures, game and online businesses,Sony is uniquely positioned to become a leading personalbroadband entertainment company in the 21st century. In EuropeSony recorded consolidated annual sales of EUR 14.90 billion (yen1,473,780 million) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2001,based on an average market exchange rate for the same period ofyen 98.9 to the EUR. Sony Europe, headquartered at the SonyCenter am Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, is responsible for thecompany's European electronics business and registeredconsolidated sales of EUR 10.37 billion for the fiscal year endedMarch 31, 2001.For more information on Sony Europe, please visithttp://www.sony-europe.comFor further information regarding Sony in Europe, please contact:Sylvia Shin Corporate Communications Europe Sony Europe GmbHtel: +49 30 2575 5156fax: +49 30 2575 5174email: sylvia.shin@eu.sony.comhttp://www.sony-europe.com/presscenterIn addition, for any queries about Sony in your respectivecountry, please contact your local Sony PR office.

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