In the realm of high-end custom sex dolls, a legal dispute is unfolding between the proprietors of competing companies. Matt McMullen, the proprietor of Abyss Creations, renowned for its Real Dolls, alleges that a former colleague has unlawfully replicated his business. Describing the Real Doll as an exceptionally lifelike, life-sized, and anatomically precise silicon individual, McMullen emphasizes the substantial effort invested in establishing his enterprise. The cost of owning one of McMullen’s “Real Dolls” is approximately $6,500, reflecting their exceptional quality. Having introduced these creations nearly 12 years ago, McMullen currently oversees their production at his workshop in San Marcos, Calif.
However, McMullen now confronts significant competition from his former associate, Matt Krivicke. Following a tenure of approximately two years as a key figure in McMullen’s company, Krivicke established Lovable Dolls in his garage last September. He asserts that his products offer enhanced sharpness and focus, catering to a wide range of purposes. The legal dispute between the two has led to mutual allegations and counterclaims, with Krivicke asserting that McMullen owes him a substantial sum for his prior employment. In response, McMullen has filed a countersuit, alleging that Krivicke misappropriated his concepts and resources.
The impending trial, scheduled for September in a North County, Calif., court, will serve as the arena for resolving these contentious issues. In the interim, both individuals will persist in the production of their respective dolls amidst this legal confrontation.
AI and Robotics?
Yes, RealDoll has been working on integrating robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) into their sex dolls. The company has developed a robotic, artificially intelligent head that can be attached to existing RealDoll bodies, with the aim of creating a more emotionally and intellectually engaging experience for users[1]. The AI technology, known as Realbotix, is designed to provide companionship and is capable of conversing with users, learning from interactions, and exhibiting personalized traits and emotions[2]. The AI-powered sex robots are designed to provide companionship and have seen an increase in sales, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic[3]. The company’s CEO, Matt McMullen, has expressed the belief that these AI-powered dolls can provide important companionship to those who are socially isolated or lonely[3]. The development of these AI sex dolls represents a significant advancement in how humans relate to AI, according to the robot makers[3]. Therefore, RealDoll is indeed including robotics and AI in its next-generation sex dolls.
Should Sex Robots Be Built?
The video below from the Guardian is intended for mature audiences. We have included it because we think it provide a fair and balanced view of the issues and views around robot and human intimate relationship interactions.
Citations
[1] https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2015/06/realdoll-is-working-on-ai-and-robotic-heads-for-its-next-gen-sex-dolls-2/
[2] https://www.realdollx.ai/support
[3] https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-sex-robots-are-selling-well-realdoll-regulated-2020-6
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/Cyberpunk/comments/39t0mh/realdoll_is_working_on_ai_and_robotic_heads_for/
[5] https://www.kpbs.org/news/arts-culture/2018/04/20/realdoll-launches-ai-sex-dolls