Thursday, September 4, 2008

It's a "Small Wonder" afterall




Wakamaru
, the first robot ever to be featured in a retail store environment, will be joining the UNIQLO team in Soho, New York. Designed by Toshiyuki Kita and developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), Wakamaru is neither human or machine; it is the first creation of its kind. Wakamaru’s capabilities include eye contact, basic conversation, ability to recognize people and greet them, voice recognition, and basic arm movements. The robot’s name is derived from a famous 12th century warrior who demonstrated phenomenal growth and development, the same of which can be expected from Wakamaru during its time at UNIQLO and in the future.

Wakamaru is not just for looks, it will hold a unique role in the UNIQLO store. It will lead staff in motivational morning exercises, communicate promotions to customers, as well as greet customers upon entrance into the store. Wakamaru’s Japanese roots make the UNIQLO store a perfect place to introduce the robot into the American marketplace. The UNIQLO store will also serve as a platform to expose Wakamaru to a multitude of nationalities and cultures.





Some specs:

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