This is how it begins—with cute robots based on beloved cartoons. Sure, they seem innocent enough, and why wouldn’t they be? They’re just machines we designed and then hooked up to a computer. No big deal. Well, that’s just what they want us to think; before you know it we’ll be living in pink prisons of goo providing energy to our overlord refrigerators.

So let’s enjoy the cute ones while we can! They certainly don’t get any cuter than a real-life lamp based on Pixar’s ubiquitous little lamp, Luxo Jr.

Created by Jochen Alt, his lamp, Luci (yes, it has a name), connects to a computer that runs software that allows Luci to scan the area for a human face. Once she locates someone she can lock onto them and start interacting—even being playful with the person. Yes, Luci has a pleasant personality. (For now.)

My fear of technology aside, this little lamp really is impressive and successfully captures the ethos of its inspiration. It might not be able to hop around and play with a ball like Luxo Jr, but it can act surprised, and my blender has never done that.

There is just something about lamps that brings out emotions in us that other appliances can’t. This is still one of my all-time favorite commercials.

Is there another appliance that you’d like to see brought to life? Or are you on my side and think we should start destroying the machines now before they unite? If you don’t agree with me give us your answer in the comments below. If you’re with me write your response on paper, put it in a bottle, and throw it in the ocean.

HT: Makezine.com
Image Credit: Filipes2C/deviantART