Munich’s Navel Robotics has begun manufacturing robotic devices designed specifically for use in nursing homes. These so-called “caregiving companions” are built to engage with older adults, showing believable emotional responses to interactions and conversations. The company shared this update with Bild, highlighting the practical role such machines can play in daily care settings.
The founder of Navel Robotics, Claude Toussaint, explained that the robots are able to recognize emotional cues and respond in turn, making them suitable companions for seniors who value interaction and social connection. Trials are already underway in several residential care facilities, where the devices are observed assisting with routine activities, providing gentle reminders, and offering conversation that resonates with residents during long days.
According to project leaders, the robots carry artificial intelligence capable of light humor and natural language dialogue, which helps foster a warm and welcoming atmosphere in shared living spaces. Vanessa Munzenmayer, director of one participating nursing home, commented that residents show strong curiosity about the new devices and increasingly engage with them as the technology proves its responsiveness and reliability. The feedback suggests a growing interest among the elderly for supportive robotic aides in everyday life.
Following the completion of pilot programs, Navel Robotics intends to scale up production. The initial bundle includes two robots and is projected to retail around 48 thousand euros, aligning with European pricing strategies for mid-range robotic companions that offer interactive capabilities and ongoing software updates. Industry observers note that a careful balance between cost, usability, and ethical considerations will determine how quickly such products are adopted in senior care environments.
Beyond local deployments, the new robotic companions are part of a broader trend toward integrating assistive machines into long-term care. Industry experts emphasize that these devices should complement human caregivers, not replace them, by handling routine tasks, monitoring safety, and enabling more meaningful human interactions. The discussion around these devices often touches on data privacy, consent, and the importance of transparent communication with residents and their families. Analysts point to pilot results as promising indicators that technology can enhance quality of life for seniors when designed with dignity and user-centric principles in mind. (Bild)