Overview
- Robin, a childlike therapeutic robot from Expper Technologies, now operates in roughly 30 facilities across California, Massachusetts, New York and Indiana five years after its U.S. debut.
- The system functions at about 30% autonomy while remote operators handle the rest under clinical supervision, with interaction data collected in compliance with HIPAA to build greater independence.
- Clinicians use Robin to reduce anxiety and loneliness by remembering names and favorites, mirroring emotions, playing games, and modeling procedures such as IV placements for pediatric patients.
- In nursing homes, Robin provides companionship and cognitive engagement, guiding residents through memory activities and calming routines like breathing exercises.
- Expper emphasizes workforce support rather than replacement and cites mounting staffing pressures, as the company works toward capabilities like vitals monitoring and, longer term, assistance with dressing and toileting.