The iDog: An iPod's Best Friend

TUAW reader Jack discovered this adorable new Tamagotchi-like treat from Japan (of course) on PlaJapan.com. It's the SegaToys iDog (Warning: The theme music is infectious. I'm still humming it).  I vaguely recall seeing mention of it on Engadget a few months ago too.

The iDog dances, emotes, "speaks" and illuminates based on where you touch it, how you move it or what you say to it.  It has a built-in microphone and can even mimic the sound of your own voice. But the coolest feature is the audio-in jack which enables you to use the iDog's built-in speakers to play your iPod through! The iDog will even groove along to the music with you.

iDog comes in "iPod white" (when did this become a Pantone color?) and measures approx. 4.5"W x 4"D x 4.25"H. It weighs about 6 ounces and comes packaged in a box that looks just like an iPod box.
You can pre-order yours now (I just did) for $45.99 from PlaJapan. Looks like it'll be available within the next month.

I've been thinking of getting an Aibo to play with, but I think the iDog will be this geek's new best friend. My Robosapien will appreciate the company.