loneliness

Two-in-five Brits felt lonely before COVID-19, but with social distancing restrictions currently in place, people are turning to tech to help them stay connected through the coronavirus crisis, according to a study commissioned by Kaspersky.

The company, known for its ElliQ countertop AI device for seniors, is also working on personal assistant software for cars and other use cases.

Funding secured through the EIT Health Investor Network will be used to extend the app to more disease types by 2020.

Data from 19 studies suggest emotional benefits for those living in homes, but stress that the simulated pets won't be accepted by every senior.