“I’m thinking about you” — Two interconnected robotic cats designed to bridge the long-distance friends. They purr, wag their tails, and meow in response to touch, acting as physical conduits for affection. This project explores how soft robot, especially zoomorphic robots, can communicate innate human emotions like comfort and connection.

When you pet the cat, it comes alive with cat-like behaviors—purring, meowing, and tail wagging—creating a familiar, comforting experience. The magic happens when two friends interact with their respective cats simultaneously: a shared heart light illuminates on both devices, and the cats meow in unison, creating a tangible moment of connection.

The project was born from the isolation of the pandemic. We observed many people turning to pets for comfort, but not everyone has the ability to own one. We also saw that this solution didn't address the deep yearning for connection with distant loved ones. The "Tail of Two Kitties" solves both problems, offering an organic and emotional way for separated friends to feel connected.

Process & Development

Read more in the github repo above

Results & Impact

Best comments from the users we met at the Open Studio @Cornell University:

* "I'm alergic to cats. OMG NOW I CAN TOUCH THE CAT"

* "This is addictive"

* "Can I buy this?"

* and lots of 'awwwwwwww's