News Summary

Human Computer Lab (HCL), founded by Vancouverite Shahvir Sarkary, is pioneering a new direction in home robotics with its innovative product, LeLamp. Unlike traditional humanoid robots designed to perform household tasks like laundry and dishwashing, LeLamp focuses on emotional resonance and expression. Inspired by Apple’s research project ELEGNT, this playful robotic lamp responds to voice commands and gestures, aiming to integrate seamlessly into users’ daily habits. HCL has secured a $500,000 USD pre-seed investment and is currently piloting a beta version of LeLamp targeted at hobbyists and developers. The company plans to operate across Canada and the United States, leveraging talent from both countries. Sarkary believes that the future of robotics lies in creating devices that forge emotional connections, rather than just performing functional tasks.