Apple's Machine Learning Research team has unveiled a lamp-like robot called ELEGNT, designed to interact with users in a pleasing and engaging manner. ELEGNT, despite not being humanoid, utilizes expressive movements to communicate intentions and emotions, enhancing user engagement.
ELEGNT efficiently performs tasks like shining light, nudging objects, playing music, and projecting visuals. However, it avoids overly mechanical movements, opting for small, engaging animations reminiscent of the Pixar lamp robot. Apple's research indicates that expression-driven movements significantly improve user engagement and perceived robot qualities, especially in social tasks.