Some time ago we introduced you to Miuro, a playtoy for your iPod, and now its newest generation has arrived. This one not only boogies, it does so spontaneously instead of having to be pre-programmed with software that is based on what is referred to as “chaotic itinerancy.” This means that instead of you instructing your Miuro to dance, it can probably teach you a few steps.

ZMP President Hisashi Taniguchi says that the bot uses algorithms to analyze and translate beats into dancing the way that bees move around flowers. He is hoping that someday Miuro will be the “ultimate virtual pet” which will feature built-in sensors that can seek you out and play you a tune, whether you want it to or not. The release date has yet to be determined, but it will only be available in Japan at start up. Do you suppose that if we let it play “Achy Breaky Heart,” it could teach us to line dance?