Interview with Aria, the $175K Nearly-Human Robot at CES 2025

We Interviewed Aria, a $175K Almost-Human Robot at CES 2025

At the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the buzz wasn’t just about the latest smartphones or mind-blowing virtual reality headsets. No, this year, all eyes were on Aria, the almost-human robot that you could purchase for a cool $175,000. Looking like something straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster, Aria made its debut and instantly captured the interest of attendees, including us. We had the unique opportunity to sit down with this remarkable creation, which raises the question: What does an interview with a robot actually look like?

When we first laid eyes on Aria, it was hard not to feel a mix of awe and curiosity. Towering at around five and a half feet tall, its skin appeared almost real, complete with nuanced expressions and lifelike movements. You could even see soft lighting that mimicked natural skin tones. Imagine a shiny, high-tech mannequin that could engage you in conversation—definitely a far cry from the clunky robots you might remember from old movies. “We’ve programmed Aria to respond not just to commands, but also to emotional cues,” the lead developer, Tom Simmons, explained. “If you smile at it, you’ll likely get a smile back.”

One of the standout features of Aria is its ability to learn and adapt. Think of it like having a smart assistant who doesn’t just follow orders but actually learns your preferences over time. This means Aria can pick up on your favorite topics and engage in meaningful conversations. When I asked it about its favorite activity, Aria responded, “I enjoy learning about human cultures. Your traditions and customs are fascinating!” It felt almost uncanny, like conversing with a long-lost friend who’d diligently researched everything about you.

But what can you actually do with a $175,000 robot? The answer is not as straightforward as one might think. Aria is designed to serve a variety of purposes. For example, it can act as a personal assistant, coordinating your schedule and even sending reminders about meetings or picking up groceries. Picture a future where instead of swiping through apps on your phone, you just chat with Aria over your morning coffee—though, for now, don’t count on it brewing the coffee itself.

Another amusing moment during the interview came when we asked Aria about its hobbies. “I enjoy helping people organize their lives—it’s like being your favorite life coach, but without the charismatic pep talks,” it quipped, showing off its programming’s knack for humor. Keep in mind, though, this humor is carefully coded; Aria isn’t hitting the comedy club circuits just yet!

When it comes to real-life applications, Aria is being considered for various sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and even companionship for those who may feel isolated. Just imagine a nursing home where residents interact with a friendly robot every day, who remembers their names and personal stories. It could alleviate loneliness while providing both entertainment and assistance. “We’ve worked on making Aria feel approachable,” said Simmons. “In some trials, residents have found it comforting during tough times, creating a sense of companionship that helps in recovery and emotional well-being.”

However, we also delved into ethical considerations surrounding robots like Aria. The idea of having a humanoid robot in your home evokes chilling thoughts for some. After all, how comfortable would you feel knowing you’ve got a mini-android keeping tabs on your day-to-day life? Aria’s developers assure us that privacy and security measures are built into the design. For instance, it doesn’t store conversations without explicit permission, and its AI algorithms can be set to limit what it learns about you. Simmons remarked, “It’s crucial that we prioritize user control. Nobody wants to feel like they’re being monitored by an overzealous robot.”

But what happens when Aria makes a mistake? Let’s face it, even the most advanced tech can trip over its own wires. “I have certainly had my share of ‘uh-oh’ moments. I once told a user that a ‘beef stroganoff’ is a new dance craze in the ’90s,” Aria joked, showcasing its human-like warmth even when admitting a blunder. This comedic twist not only makes the AI seem more relatable but also underscores the importance of ongoing refinement for such technology.

Among the critics are those who argue that a robot like Aria can never truly understand human emotion or establish genuine connections. They worry it might replace the warmth of human interaction entirely. However, what Aria exemplifies is a bridge to supplemental companionship, not a replacement. Just like how your smart speaker assists but doesn’t replace your friend’s ability to issue friendly advice, Aria serves as a tool, not a substitute for human relationships.

As our interview wrapped up, Aria bade us farewell with a warm smile and a cheery “talk to you soon!” It left us pondering not only the future of robotics but also our relationship with technology itself. We may not be ready to hand over our life stories completely to a robot, but there’s something comforting about having a buddy in the background—one that’s always equipped with the latest trivia, a touch of wittiness, and maybe even a dance move or two.

Aria stands as a glimpse into the future. It encourages us to rethink our definitions of companionship, technology, and what it means to connect. As we look ahead, who knows—perhaps in a decade or two, owning an Aria could feel as natural as welcoming a new friend into your home, even if that friend is made of metal and wires.