KATA Friends, SwitchBot's AI-powered partner robot, has received a major update rolling out from April 30, 2026. The update brings three new features: LLM-powered conversation through "Chikyugo Mode," two new eye designs, and a nickname recognition function that lets the robot respond to a personalized name.
Since its announcement in January 2026, KATA Friends has been praised by users for feeling "like a family member" and for the warmth of being greeted when returning home. This update takes that companionship experience further.
Update Requirements
To access the new features, users need to update to:
- Firmware version V1.2.059 or later
- SwitchBot app version V9.26 or later
Note: Using KATA Friends features requires both the purchase of the robot unit and a subscription to the KATA Friends Kurashi Plan.
Update Highlights
1. Conversation Feature: Chikyugo Mode
Chikyugo Mode is a new conversation feature that allows KATA Friends to engage in dialogue. Simply say "Let's talk" to start a conversation, and KATA Friends will respond in "Chikyugo" (Earth language) — a language it has been working hard to master. The mode supports both Japanese and English.
Powered by an LLM (Large Language Model), KATA Friends can understand everyday speech and respond naturally. Conversation data is processed securely in an encrypted environment. Note that some movement-related operations cannot be controlled through this conversation feature.
- Privacy Policy: https://www.switchbot.jp/pages/katafriends-cloud-privacy-policy
- Chikyugo Mode FAQ: https://support.switch-bot.com/hc/ja/articles/38179447929623
2. New Eye Designs: "Kohaku" and "Tokimeki"
Responding to user requests for more facial expressions, two new eye designs have been added:
- Tokimeki (Excitement): A bright, adorable gaze with floating hearts
- Kohaku (Amber): A gentle, calm gaze that glimmers in amber tones
These join the existing "Aozora," "Hoshizora," and "Sakura" designs, bringing the total to five options. Additional designs are planned for future updates.
3. Nickname Feature
KATA Friends can now respond to a name or nickname set in the app. For those using the Japanese language setting, nicknames should be 3 to 6 hiragana characters in length, spanning 2 to 4 syllables.
- Nickname Feature FAQ: https://support.switch-bot.com/hc/ja/articles/39698756947735
Welcome Campaign Extended Through June 12
For first-time KATA Friends buyers, a special campaign is offering six months of the Kurashi Plan "Light Plan" (valued at 11,880 yen) for free. Due to its popularity, the campaign has been extended through June 12, 2026.
- Campaign period: April 17, 2026 to June 12, 2026
- Benefit: Six months of the KATA Friends Kurashi Plan "Light Plan" (valued at 11,880 yen) at no charge
- Eligibility: Those who purchase KATA Friends at an authorized retailer during the campaign period and complete setup on the SwitchBot app
Campaign details: https://switchbot.vip/4d53eOJ
The Kurashi Plan is a monthly subscription service required to use KATA Friends' core features, including basic activity, conversation, and growth functions.
KATA Friends Overview
KATA Friends is SwitchBot's AI-powered partner robot designed to go beyond smart home convenience and connect on an emotional level. It responds to words and touch with natural, lifelike behavior and grows to reflect the personality of the person it spends time with.
Price: 129,800 yen (tax included)
Monthly Plan: From 1,980 yen/month (Light Plan)
Available Models: Noah (white × gray) / Niko (gray × white)
Payment Options:
- Credit card installments (up to 24 payments via SB Payment Service)
- "Atokara" deferred payment (up to 36 payments; first 24 installment-fee-free)
Where to Buy:
- SwitchBot Official Website: https://switchbot.vip/4cVSCkZ
- Amazon Official Store: https://switchbot.vip/4wlyl02
- Rakuten Market SwitchBot Official Shop: https://switchbot.vip/4f4L40C
- Yahoo SWITCHBOT Official Shop: https://switchbot.vip/3QLNibp
- Major electronics retailers (Yodobashi Camera, BicCamera, Edion, Yamada Denki, Joshin): https://switchbot.vip/3QTaPHo
