Sex Robots: High-Tech Sex Toy ... Or Something More?

How do you feel about the idea of having sex with robots? Does it excite you, disgust you, fascinate you or just plain confuse you?

Maybe it's time to think about it, because sex robots have emerged from fantasy to reality - at least if you have a few thousand dollars to spend. Researchers say these increasingly life-like robots could be the future of prostitution the future of orgasm or, well, a sign of the end of the world. So are sex robots just a souped-up sex toy, or something more?

They're Heeere!

Sex toys aren't as ultra-modern as you might think. For centuries, sex toys and sex dolls have been manufactured around the world to satisfy men and women alike. The earliest sex robots created in the late 20th and early 21st century were often secret, one-off projects for their creators' private use. They were little more than mannequins with buzzing orifices and a limited range of programmed movements.

More recently, however, Japanese research into realistic androids with human-like movement - right down to small details like blinking and breathing - have been designed for the elderly and infirm. This development has also increased technological innovation in the sex robot industry; the latest sex androids from Japan exist in the uncanny valley between too human-like and not human enough, can be "programmed" with a personality, and have enough basic artificial intelligence to hold non-sexual conversations as well as respond to their owner’s advances. But as lifelike as they are marketed to be, many of them are far from human.

The Latest Models...

U.S.-based company True Companion created the world's first full-sized sexbot, Roxxxy, and released it in 2010. Although you might mistake her for a real person at a quick glance, her lack of poise and less-than-expressive face quickly give her away. True Companion now offers a range of models, from the $7,000 Roxxxy Gold to the $995 RoxxxyPillow, a slightly unnerving design without arms or legs, that tucks into a cushion to save space - and, one would suppose, awkward explanations.

The most publicized male sex robot is probably Rocky True Companion, from the creators of the Roxxxy doll. Described as "well equipped … with 2 inputs", Rocky is designed to appeal to gay men as well as to heterosexual women.

Rocky’s customizable features, from his eye color to facial stubble and pubic hair, are purely cosmetic, but Rocky owners can also get new "personalities" for their robot online. The cost of this life-sized action figure? Around $6,500. (Quite a price tag. For a cheaper alternative, try improving your sex life with your non-robotic partner. Get some tips in 8 New Year's Resolutions for the Best Sex Ever.)

Just a High-Tech Sex Toy?

Of course there also a lot of skeptics out there who just can't see getting it on with circuit board, no matter how life-like. And, understandably, the whole human being thing is a big barrier. But think about it this way: If you already use a vibrator, an oral sex simulator, or a masturbation aid like the Fleshlight, it's at least possible to imagine it might be nice if it also had the functionality to hug you, kiss you and tell you you're awesome!

Or Something More?

So, you could argue that the widespread availability of robot sex partners will reduce the spread of disease, limit the moneymaking potential of human trafficking, and perhaps help to prevent some sex crimes. One research team has even suggested that the frequent, high-intensity orgasms a robot could provide may even make us live longer!

Is the Future of Sex Robotic?