Dr. Hiroshi Ishiguro's Android Mannequin Interacts with Consumers

Shopping is slowly becoming a whole new experience as shown by the introduction of an android mannequin in the Tokyo department store Takashimiya. Part of a Valentine’s Day promotion, the lifelike android mannequin doesn’t just sit there looking pretty, it also interacts with shoppers. Until they approach her, however, she simply sits there quietly clutching a cellphone and purse.

Created by Dr. Hiroshi Ishiguro, who is known for his Geminoid robots, the android mannequin is capable of 60 facial expressions and cycles through four main emotional states throughout the day. She is also equipped with a built-in facial recognition software. It is this software that enables her to interact with shop customers.

This android mannequin marks the eventual evolution of store displays. In the future, static mannequins could be swapped for androids.