Improving Kids' First Impressions and Interactions with Robots Through Unboxing

What is it about?

This research explores how the experience of unboxing a social robot can be designed to make it more exciting and meaningful for children. Social robots are becoming popular as companions and helpers for kids, but how these robots are introduced to children—starting from the moment they open the box—can affect how kids see and interact with them. Inspired by the popularity of unboxing videos, the researchers worked with children to co-design creative packaging and interactive features that make the unboxing process more fun and engaging. They developed and tested a special box, called "Freddy the Butler," that not only houses the robot but also guides kids through their first activities with it. The study shows that a thoughtfully designed unboxing experience can help kids build a stronger connection with the robot, making it feel more like a friend than just a device.

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Photo by Andy Kelly on Unsplash

Photo by Andy Kelly on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This work highlights a unique and often overlooked aspect of technology adoption: the very first experience users have with a product, particularly social robots for children. The research focuses on the "unboxing experience" as a key moment to shape children’s first impressions and long-term relationships with robots, making it feel like meeting a companion rather than just unpacking a device. This study uniquely focuses on children, who interact with technology differently than adults. The co-design process, where children actively contributed ideas, ensured the design reflected their needs and creativity. By turning unboxing into a playful, interactive, and social activity, this work moves beyond traditional packaging to create a more meaningful introduction to technology. This research is timely because social robots are becoming increasingly integrated into everyday life, particularly in homes as educational tools, companions, and helpers. A well-designed unboxing experience could improve adoption, engagement, and acceptance of these technologies. The findings could also inspire companies to rethink how products are introduced, moving toward designs that foster emotional connections and improve user satisfaction right from the start.