Naoru-kun, a new doll by Bandai , responds to RFID’d objects.

The toy speaks 150 different phrases and responds when it’s shaken hands, hugged, petted, etc. But it can also get sick. While playing, Naoru-kun starts coughing and sneezing. According to symptoms, kids must use one of the items including “syringe,” “candy” and “medicine.” The doll reads RFID tags embedded in these items and responds accordingly.

The company says this toy would foster caring mentality in kids’ minds.

Via RFID in Japan Nikei.