Beyond just its effects on health, the coronavirus pandemic has also taken a toll on people's social lives. In Japan, they're fighting back against the loneliness by buying up friendly robots.

The demand for small robots has risen steeply as more and more people are purchasing them for their parents, who often live in a distant province far away and are hard to visit. Robot toys, such as Sony's robot dog Aibo, can be a replacement for an in-person visit, as many fear spreading the coronavirus, the Kyodo news agency reports.

These soothing toys also help people ensure their parents are safe and well - Sony's latest version of Aibo is built to wander through the home, checking that everything is okay.

Owners can make sure the little robot dogs checks up on particular parts of the home at certain times of day.

Such robots have a healing function in these unsettled times, says Kyodo. Thanks to sensors, Aibo is able to perceive a kind word or a pat on the head. The robot dog can also adapt its behaviour accordingly, with the help of artificial intelligence, as well as recall up to 10 faces thanks to built-in cameras and microphones.

Other robots on the market include Qoobo from Yukai Engineering Inc, a fluffy pillow that can wag its tail and aims to warm its owner's heart. Kyodo says its sales are also significantly higher right now.

 - dpa