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Designers: Yves Behar, , Qin Li, Fuseproject, San Francisco, California, USA
Manufacturer: Intuition Robotics, Palo Alto, California, USA

ElliQ is an AI powered robot designed to empower happier, healthier, more connected aging. As adults age in place, many experience reduced social engagement which heightens the risk of cognitive and health decline. ElliQ offers a solution through a new category of emotionally intelligent robotics, developed to serve as a proactive and empathetic in-home care companion. designed by fuseproject for Intuition Robotics, ElliQ is the result of over five years of research, including beta testing with older adults, leading to its market debut in 2022.

ElliQ leverages AI, proactive engagement, long term memory computer vision, and emotion detection to build meaningful relationships with its users. More than a voice assistant, ElliQ initiates conversation, learns from past interactions, and adapts to users’ preferences—creating a sense of companionship that is responsive and deeply personal.

It helps older adults achieve their wellness goals through features like medication reminders, suggested physical or mental activities, voice operated video calls and messaging, and educational content. Users interact with ElliQ an average of 30+ times per day, relying on it for connection, encouragement, and emotional support.

The design embodies a clear philosophy: technology for older adults must be approachable, elegant, and non-intimidating. Rather than mimicking humanoid robots, ElliQ takes on the form of a sculptural tabletop object. It consists of a screen and a distinct “entity” structure—allowing for a dual-mode interface that supports both visual and conversational interaction. Its motion-capable head, warm metallic finish, and diffused LED lighting express emotion and attention in a subtle, calming way. These design choices help ElliQ feel alive, responsive, and friendly, without evoking novelty or cold machinery.

The updated ElliQ 3 offers a modular, lighter and smaller, cost-reduced system while maintaining emotional resonance and function.. The base unit is thoughtfully engineered with hidden microphones, durable materials, and a balanced form for lasting stability and minimal visual clutter. The companion structure is anodised aluminum with a gently textured plastic head, creating an object that feels appropriate in any home.

ElliQ’s intuitive voice interface and on-screen UI remove the friction often associated with digital products for the elderly. It doesn’t wait for users to act—instead, it leads with suggestions like “Would you like to call your daughter?” or “Shall we go for a walk today?” These prompts are based on pre-set goals or real-time data, such as weather or calendar events. Its proactive behaviour gives users the sense of living with a caring roommate rather than operating a piece of tech.