Mona Version 1.5

BLACKSBURG, VA -- An updated version of Mona was introduced today. This version is even more affectionate than its predecessor, providing hugs, kisses and conversation to everything in its proximity (with the exception of loud dogs).


Mona 1.5 improves upon its predecessor (1.0) in the following ways:

Version 1.0 used approximately 7 vocabulary words on a regular basis, whereas version 1.5 uses over 100. Version 1.5 also repeats many things uttered in its presence, note the developers.


Version 1.0 moved at the speed of crawl. Version 1.5 moves at the speed of walk, with the capability to walk slower or faster (what observers have described as a "waddle-run") depending on circumstances.

Reviewers have noted that version 1.5 can emit disagreeable noises if hurried into an unexpected or undesired transition. Therefore, the engineers are working on ways to gradually prepare 1.5, and future versions, for any changes that may be required of currently running programs.


Version 1.5 is heftier by several pounds, which is stressing at least one of its two servers in noticeable ways. Future versions are predicted to weigh even more. But this challenge is expected to be overcome as the Mona relies more on its own speed, and as the servers learn new ways to retain proximity whilst simultaneously enabling the Mona to operate remotely.

Mona 1.5 runs most smoothly when operating in the midst of other children, and seems to experience frequent crashes when connected only to the servers for an extended period of time. The developers are working on finding more densely-populated environments to host 1.5, and future versions.


On a final note: Whereas the pre-production Mona (beta version 1.0) was fueled by a vegetarian server, Mona 1.5 operates almost exclusively on hot dogs (organic, grass-fed beef -- but hot dogs nonetheless), to the dismay of the developers.