A major Tokyo department store has placed a robot receptionist at the front to greet customers today.
As reported by the AP, the robot “Aiko Chihira” was placed at the receptionist desk at the Mitsukoshi Nihombashi department store to “spark conversations” and maybe even a “giggle or two,” said the store’s marketing manager.
Developed by Toshiba, Aiko Chihira can only read programmed scripts as of this time and has limited body and facial movements. The store will use her to give customers directions and tell them about new store campaigns.
The store’s human receptionist said that while she finds the robot’s smile a bit “stiff,” she says she’s “happy and honored” to be working with her.
Watch the robot in action below:
