We are conducting a short survey to better understand how people make new friends, use social apps, and what they think about innovative social tools. Your feedback will help us design better products that support meaningful connections. This survey takes about 1-3 minutes to complete.
1. How do you usually meet new people in your daily life? （Multiple choice ） Through social apps Through school/work Through friends’ introductions Through hobbies/events (e.g., clubs, sports, exhibitions) Random encounters (e.g., cafés, travel, public places) Other
2.Do you often use social apps (such as Tinder, Soul, etc.)? Yes, very often Sometimes Rarely Never
3. Have you ever felt that conversations online go well, but it’s difficult to actually meet up in real life? Yes, often Sometimes Rarely Never
4. 3.1 If yes, why? (Open-ended) ________ 4. Do you ever carry “social signal” items with you (such as plush toys, pins, or clothing that reflect your interests)? Yes, often Sometimes Rarely Never
5. Imagine a small robot that can understand your interests and recommend like-minded people nearby. Would you consider using it? Definitely yes Maybe, depending on the design Not sure Probably not Definitely not
6. What features would this robot need to have for you to feel comfortable carrying it with you every day? （Multiple choice ） Small and lightweight design Cute/attractive appearance Emotional support (chatting, cheering you up) Smart matching with nearby people Privacy protection (e.g., data encryption, user control) Other:
7. How would you feel if the robot actively helped you initiate conversations with new people? Very helpful, I’d love that Helpful in some situations Neutral, depends on the context A bit awkward Very awkward, I’d dislike it
8. What concerns would you have about privacy and safety when using such a product? （Multiple choice ） Location tracking Personal data misuse Unwanted approaches from strangers Device being hacked Other:
9. Would you be willing to pay for this type of robot/service? Yes, definitely Maybe, depending on the price No
9.1If yes, what price range feels reasonable? <$10 $10-30 $30-50 $50-100 >$100
10. Which of the following product names do you find most appealing? SociaPet （Social + Pet, a pet-like social companion EchoBuddy （A buddy that responds and accompanies you HoloMate （A hologram-like companion） StepLink （Building connections step by step WalkieTalkie （Walking & talking, playful double meaning） Lumo （Light + Emotion, a warm companion