Computer technologists at the University of Gloucestershire are working with Services Robotics Limited to develop healthcare robots to monitor and assist the daily life of the elderly.

The AI-driven robot, is said to be "combined with a friendly service agent" who provides live video support on the robot screen, via simple voice command.

The Genie robot also aims to be a companion, answering questions and providing personalised content and reminders, using Artificial Intelligence and knowledge of the user. The robots are also wireless and small enough to fit on a table, desk or kitchen counter.

Genie Connect aims to support independent living, even help elderly people spend longer living at home, by themselves.

The robots are designed to help people manage their health, for example, reminding them to take medication. If it is successful the company hopes Genie will "play a significant role in the future of healthcare provision in the UK".

The robots incorporate what the manufacturer calls "dementia and elderly care technologies to provide reminiscence and memory stimulation". For example, Genie will ask 'do you remember this trip last year?' and will show family photos and videos on the screen.

Zayd Dawood, academic course leader in digital media and web at the University of Gloucestershire, said: "The public has become versed with the terms 3D cinema, virtual reality and augmented reality - but we're now entering an era of technology that is driven by robots and AI.

"The robots will enable the university to teach the next generation of technological development and we're looking forward to making some apps on the robot, almost like an Alexa on Legs.

Rob Parkes, co-founder of Services Robotics Limited, based in Bristol, said: "The University of Gloucestershire has a dynamic approach to working with local businesses, and we have received a lot of help not only from Zayd in software design and strategy, but Jessica Reid, Lecturer in graphic design, and marketing support from MBA students."

The project will deliver 150 robots as part of a pilot study to establish the effectiveness of companionship between robots and humans in the first half of this year.