I was told there would be robots.

We are living in a world in which we are surrounded by technology tailored to our needs. Our clothes are treated with nanoparticles to resist wrinkles and stains. We have sent probes beyond the farthest reaches of our solar system, and we have selfie-taking machines exploring celestial neighbors and conducting revolutionary experiments that alter our understanding of the universe.

Artificial intelligence is omnipresent and affects the way we drive, entertain ourselves, read the news, and make dinner. We can even carry out complex social relationships through online video games without ever having to physically meet another human being. The world’s knowledge can be accessed in mere seconds on computers we carry in our pockets. In our pockets! Clearly, we are living in the future so frequently and fancifully predicted in popular culture.

But... where is the plastic pal who’s fun to be with that I was told would be waiting for me?

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