Is Japan's 'Mirumi' Robot The New Labubu?

Mirumi is quickly becoming the internet’s newest obsession, and many believe it could replace Labubu as the must-have bag charm of 2026. Created by Tokyo-based Yukai Engineering, Mirumi is not just a decorative accessory but a small companion robot designed to spark moments of joy in everyday life.

While it may look like a simple furry charm at first glance, Mirumi is interactive, responsive, and emotionally engaging in a way most accessories are not.

What makes Mirumi different from ordinary bag charms

Mirumi is designed around emotion rather than function. Unlike typical robot products that focus on utility, Mirumi does not clean, speak, or perform tasks. Instead, it reacts gently to its surroundings using built-in sensors that detect sound, movement, and proximity.

When attached to a bag or backpack, Mirumi turns its head to look around, follows nearby movement with its eyes, and responds shyly when someone comes too close or tries to touch it. These subtle reactions make it feel less like a machine and more like a curious little companion.

The idea behind Mirumi came from a simple human moment. Yukai Engineering CEO Shunsuke Aoki has said the inspiration was the warm feeling people experience when a baby unexpectedly makes eye contact in a public place.

That small interaction often leads to a smile or a friendly wave, and Mirumi is designed to recreate that same emotional response. Its soft fur, oversized eyes, and gentle movements are carefully crafted to feel comforting and familiar rather than mechanical.

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How it works

Mirumi uses a combination of distance sensors and motion detection technology to create natural movements. It can nod, tilt its head, shake gently in response to too much movement, and remain calm when left undisturbed.

It also reacts to sound and touch, turning toward noises or responding to head pats. The robot is rechargeable using a Type-C cable and even signals when its battery is low by slowing down and shaking its head tiredly.

The charm was first showcased at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, where it stood out not for advanced technology but for its emotional appeal. Soon after, Mirumi launched on Kickstarter, where it gained strong interest from early backers.

It is currently available in grey, pink, and ivory, with an estimated price of around 18,360 yen, or roughly ₹10,500, during the promotional period. Shipping is expected to begin in April 2026, although timelines may vary.

Unlike Labubu, which rose to popularity through collectibility and visual style, Mirumi represents a shift toward emotional tech. It focuses on presence, comfort, and human connection rather than status or scarcity.

As people increasingly look for small sources of joy in busy routines, Mirumi’s gentle charm and emotional design may be exactly what makes it the next viral phenomenon.