Sharp’s First Conversational AI Character “Poketomo”

• A Meerkat-Inspired Character Available as a Robot and a Smartphone App.
• Manga Series now streaming on X (@poketomo_sharp)

Driven by the desire to bring the experience of living with a supportive partner to even more people, Sharp Corporation (Sharp) has launched Poketomo, a pocket-sized companion designed to “make everyday life more enjoyable”. Poketomo is a meerkat-inspired AI character, available as both a robot and a smartphone app, launching November 2025.

Powered by Sharp’s proprietary AI technology, CE-LLM, “Poketomo” enables personalised voice-based conversations tailored to each individual. CE-LLM is Sharp’s proprietary AI technology (Communication Edge – Large Language Model), which integrates AI capabilities into edge devices whilst using cloud-based AI when needed.

Whether users want to share happy news, talk about their favourite interests, or simply need someone to talk to, “Poketomo” initiates conversations and offers words of encouragement. “Poketomo” can remember users’ conversations, places they have visited, and things they have seen, thus “growing into a more understanding and supportive partner” over time.

Poketomo robot version communicates expressively through gestures and changes the colour of its belly light to a rainbow hue to show happiness. It stands approximately 12 cm tall and developers are predicting it will weigh around 200g, making it small enough to sit in owner’s palms. Users can carry it in their pocket or hang it from a bag (a dedicated pouch is sold separately). When the robot is not nearby or voice communication isn’t convenient, users can chat with the app version of “Poketomo” via voice or text. Conversations held in the app are shared with the robot, and users can also choose to interact exclusively with the app version.

On Sharp’s official X account (@poketomo_sharp), a manga series featuring “Poketomo” has already begun. The story follows the daily life of the main character, Nanami, and her experiences living with “Poketomo”.

Trish Stevens Head of Content

Trish is the Head of Content for In the Channel Media Group as well as being Guest Editor of UC Advanced Magazine.

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