'Intellicot' tries to automate parenting

(Credit: Intellicot)

We've long cautioned against overuse of technology to replace basic parenting responsibilities, but our concerns usually focused on such items as baby cams and RFID backpacks. The "Intellicot," however, takes the proverbial cake.

Cencio, the manufacturer, says the Intellicot is a high-tech alternative to a "wooden cage with a mattress" and helps develop regular sleeping patterns while controlling temperatures. But we agree with the assessment by GearLive instead: "The gadget rocks your baby, has a video camera for surveillance, a built-in lift system, and circulates air. Called a 'labour of love' by Britain's Coventry University, we call it a glorified ant farm and a terrible replacement for a couple of hugs and a good old-fashioned rocking chair." Amen.