Humanoid Robots Closer Than You Think
Robots working alongside humans and even becoming their companions may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but Japan's SoftBank Corp (USA) (OTC: SFTBF) is planning to make such robots a reality in the very near future.
The company has developed a robot called "Pepper" that it says will eventually become a staple in the modern world.
Pepper's Capabilities
The robot has been touted as the first to be capable of understanding human emotions. The device is able to understand facial expressions and body language in order to predict how a person is feeling, and it can express its own emotions as well.
SoftBank said Pepper will eventually be able to carry out simple tasks like household chores, but for now the robot's primary function will be communication. Pepper can provide companionship to the elderly and keep their memory sharp by asking questions.
The robot is also able to remind people to take their medication and report back to medical professionals with health data.
Alibaba On Board
On Thursday, SoftBank announced that Chinese e-commerce firm Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE: BABA) is backing the robot by buying a 20 percent stake in the venture.
Alibaba is investing ¥14.5 billion in Pepper's development in hopes of catching the robotics wave before it comes in. Alibaba executive chairman Jack Ma said he sees robots becoming as popular as cars and airplanes in the coming years.
Price Problem
Robots like Pepper are unlikely to become the norm in average households anytime soon, as they carry an expensive price tag. Pepper will cost ¥198,000, but won't be able to run without a ¥25,000 per month contract.
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