Inside the Aqua City waterfront shopping complex in Tokyo is a smart information desk that's equipped to help visitors find out exactly what they need to know. Rather than being staffed by a human, a lifelike Japanese robot operates the station.
'Chihira Junco' is the name of the female android by the Toshiba Corporation who has been programmed to assist shoppers in three languages: Japanese, English and Chinese.
To interact with the smart android robot, mall-goers use a device to input enquiries. Unlike many touchscreen panels, this one is able to pick up on inputs in mid-air, which means that the panel is completely touchless and prevents people from having to put their hands directly in contact with the surface.
Informational Android Kiosks
This Japanese Information Desk is Run by a Multilingual Robot
Trend Themes
1. Multilingual Android Assistants - Developing androids like Chihira Junco that can communicate in multiple languages opens up opportunities for multilingual customer service in various industries.
2. Touchless Interaction Technology - Creating touchless input interfaces, like the mid-air input panel used in the informational android kiosk, has potential applications in healthcare, hospitality, and retail industries where hygiene and cleanliness are crucial.
3. Robot-assisted Customer Service - The use of lifelike robots, such as the Japanese android at the information desk, highlights the potential for industries like retail, tourism, and hospitality to enhance customer service experiences through the integration of humanoid robots.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers can utilize multilingual android assistants to provide personalized customer service and guidance to international customers.
2. Tourism - In the tourism industry, touchless interaction technology can be used in kiosks and information centers to provide tourists with a safer and more hygienic way to access information and services.
3. Hospitality - The integration of lifelike robots in the hospitality industry can offer guests unique experiences and efficient customer service, enhancing their overall stay.