| Teksta/Tekno the Robotic Puppy | |
 | |
| Manufacturer | ToyQuest (Original Version)
Genesis Toys (New Version) |
| Creator | Bob Del Principe, Brian Dubinksy, and Gary Leynes |
| Type | Dog Robot |
| Released | 1999, 2007, and 2013 |
| Website | tekno-robotics.com |
Teksta the Robotic Puppy (Formerly, Tekno the Robotic Puppy) is a blue and white (may also appear in other colors) robot toy dog made by Genesis Toys & Character Toys in UK launched sometime in mid 2010s.
How It Works[]
With over 160 emotions and functions, Teksta the Robotic Puppy captured the imagination of parents and kids by offering a special technological peak into the future. Children could enjoy the companionship and playfulness of a real pet without the daily care giving burdens. Teksta's basic functions included walking, barking, eating, and sleeping, and special motor sensors enabled emotional and life-like intelligence. It could be "taught" to respond to voice commands and to perform real dog tricks such as fetching, whining, and playing tricks with the included bone and ball accessories. Smart light sensor technology also gave Teksta the ability to understand visual commands and to react to environmental stimuli, even knowing when to go to sleep on its own. Since 2013, Tekno is controlled by a smart device like iPad and Android phone.
Inspiration[]
This toy is inspired from another old robot dog toy made by ToyQuest (aka "Tekno the Robotic Puppy"), it was a popular electronic robotic toy which originally launched in the fall of 2000. Tekno sold over 7 million units in its first season and went on to sell over 40 million units in its original 4 years of production. The worldwide popularity for Tekno led to prominent awards and widespread media coverage which included newspaper articles, television and film appearances, and a stand-alone feature on the cover of Time magazine.
Development[]
Developed by Bob Del Principe, Brian Dubinksy, and designer Gary Leynes, Tekno launched in the fall of 2000 retailing for $39.99. Marketing efforts included a national television commercial campaign, traditional public relations, live talk show appearances, and the creation of the Institute of Robotic Technology to promote the world of robotics.
Entering a crowded toy pet market which included Rocket the Wonder Dog from Fisher Price, and Poo-Chi, from Tiger Electronics and SEGA, Tekno was named the best puppy for its value by Jim Silver of the popular magazine Toy Wishes.
Variations[]
Teksta Robotic Kitty[]
Under Construction!
Teksta Robotic Trex[]
Under Construction!