Electronics giant Sony has unleashed its new robot pet AIBO, packed with artificial intelligence and internet connectivity. The 30-centimetre long hound-like machine comes complete with flapping ears and its eyes, made of a cutting-edge light-emitting display, and can show various emotions. The owner can play with the pet remotely via smartphone and even teach it tricks from the office. Sony rolled out the first-generation dog in June 1999. Over the following years, more than 150,000 units were sold. But by 2006, Sony's business model was under pressure and had to halt its production. Now AIBO is back with new capabilities, as more robotic pets are reportedly in Sony's future.