Mattel has decided against releasing its artificial intelligence (AI) powered “babysitter” called Aristotle, because of privacy concerns and other implications.

The toy company broadcasted the device in January at the CSE technology show, explaining it as a “major leap in parenting technology”.

The device had a variety of features, including a small camera that worked as a visual baby monitor, a detect system that notifies the user when running out of baby products and a sound service to tell bedtime stories and sing lullabies.

According to the BBC, campaigners said AI should not be used in place of real parenting.

The company said: “Aristotle is designed with a specific purpose and mission: to aid parents and use the most advanced AI-driven technology to make it easier for them to protect, develop, and nurture the most important asset in their home – their children.”

The company recently announced it had decided not to sell Aristotle “as part of an on-going effort to deliver the best possible connected product experience to the consumer”.

US politicians also had concerns about the data being gathered by the device.

Written by Leah Alger