Japanese carrier SoftBank on Thursday unveiled what it billed as an “emotional” humanoid robot that will entertain customers at the mobile carrier’s phone outlets –– and maybe become a member of their family. Company president Masayoshi Son joked around with the talking, dancing and singing humanoid named Pepper at an event just outside Tokyo. The bug-eyed 3.9-feet tall robot may eventually take on a customer-service agent role at Softbank’s stores, Son said, adding that its “human emotions” made it a perfect fit for families in a rapidly aging society where labor shortages loom. Softbank CEO Son shakes hands with Pepper, the “emotional robot.” (Associated Press) The robot can learn and “understand” human facial expressions and emotions, making it a perfect party companion, babysitter or even caretaker for seniors, said the flamboyant chief executive, who led SoftBank’s $22 billion purchase of US-based Sprint last year.
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