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Article Type:: Analysis

Robo-receptionists: the next big thing?

Article Date: Aug 08 2005

Imagine employing a human-like android receptionist who speaks four languages and can hold a conversation with total strangers.

It sounds like a far-fetched plot from a futuristic sci-fi movie, but prepare for a reality check – it’s already on the market.

The new Actroid Reception Robot is the latest in robotic chic and was unveiled by makers Kokoro Company Ltd and Advanced Media Inc at the World Expo 2005 in Japan. Designed with a striking resemblance to a real woman, the humanoid robot is capable of mimicking genuine facial expressions and can converse on a variety of topics with a ‘synthetic but true-to-life voice’.

Visitors to the show in Japan were encouraged to view the Actroid Reception Robot as a practical business purchase and it’s possible some CEOs with cash to flash have already snapped one up, keen to take advantage of an employee who doesn’t require comfort breaks or annual leave.

So, next time your receptionist is caught idly filing her nails or making long personal calls, it might be worth mentioning that a robot receptionist could soon be ready to take over.

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