Ananova - Experts discuss ideas for robot festival
Story filed: 06:21 Thursday 1st November 2001
Academics and robot experts are looking to the future at a gathering to discuss the development of the UK's first robot festival.
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Plans are well under way for RoboFesta-UK, which takes place in 2004, and is expected to attract thousands of enthusiasts from all over the country.
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Sony Dogs Aibo Enthusiast's Site
http://www.aibohack.com
Courts: The company uses a controversial law to stop owners from altering the robotic pet. Some consumers balk.
By DAVE WILSON and ALEX PHAM, TIMES STAFF WRITERS

Sony Corp. is using a controversial U.S. law aimed at protecting intellectual property to pull the plug on a Web site that helps owners of Aibo, Sony's popular and pricey robotic pet, teach their electronic dogs new tricks.

Aibo owners are outraged, and hundreds have vowed to stop buying Sony products altogether until the company backs off. Sony has sold more than 100,000 Aibos worldwide since 1999, at prices ranging from $800 to $3,000. The dogs have spawned a community of enthusiasts who fuss over the mechanical marvels as if they were real canines.
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International robot sales boom
12:27 AEST Wed 31 Oct 2001
AP - Sales of industrial robots have risen to record levels and they have huge, untapped potential for domestic chores like mowing the lawn and vacuuming the carpet, according to a UN report.
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