Future AIBO versions may become watchdogs. AIBO includes a 180,000 pixel CCD camera in its head, so with the addition of RF, AIBO could easily send pictures from wherever it wanders. And it could be programmed or controlled remotely, making it easy to check up on different parts of your home or office while out.

AIBO also includes a pressure sensor so it can determine when it's being petted or, a range finder and LEDs that light up like eyes. The LEDs are a kind of doggy mood ring: Green means AIBO is happy, while red means its angry. It also includes a range finder and motion sensors that let it regain its balance after falling and detecting objects around it. Sony claims it won't walk off the side of a table, and it won't walk into walls either.

Sony also claims AIBO has instincts and emotion, and that it will autonomously act on these capabilities. It claims that AIBO will learn from its behavior and environment, and move from being a puppy to an adult dog over time.