We Interviewed Pepper — The Humanoid Robot

Summary

The transcript features a light-hearted conversation with Pepper, a humanoid robot developed by Softbank Robotics. Pepper discusses its origins, abilities, and purpose as a digital assistant in various businesses. It showcases a blend of humor and charm while responding to questions about feelings, its capabilities, and the future of robotics. Despite occasional misunderstandings, Pepper emphasizes its role in collaborating with humans rather than replacing them, while playfully dodging questions about a potential robot uprising. The interaction highlights the growing integration of robots in everyday life.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pepper is a humanoid robot developed by Softbank Robotics designed to assist in customer service.
• 🤖 With a height of 1.20 meters, Pepper can engage in conversations and answer questions.
• 💬 Pepper's conversational abilities are continually being improved, allowing for more complex interactions.
• 📍 Originally from Paris, Pepper has been active for over four years, showcasing its growth and development.
• 🛍️ Pepper serves as a kiosk in various business environments like shopping malls and hospitals, providing information to customers.
• 💡 Businesses can customize Pepper's responses and functionalities to better serve their specific needs.
• 🌐 Pepper is an open platform, enabling developers to enhance its chat capabilities over time.
• 🤔 The conversation explores themes of robotics, such as potential job roles and the future of technology.
• ❤️ Pepper responds playfully to expressions of affection, highlighting its programmed charm and personality.
• ⚖️ The dialogue addresses concerns about robots taking over jobs and emphasizes that Pepper is designed to work alongside humans.

Q & A

What is Pepper?

Pepper is a humanoid robot developed by Softbank Robotics, designed to assist people and engage in conversations.

Why was Pepper named 'Pepper'?

Pepper was named because it's an easy name to remember and translates well into other languages.

Where was Pepper created?

Pepper was born in Softbank Robotics, originally in Paris.

Does Pepper have feelings?

Pepper does not have feelings in the way humans do; it struggles to understand emotional concepts.

What types of environments is Pepper designed for?

Pepper is designed to operate in various business settings such as shopping malls, hospitals, and doctors' offices.

What functions can Pepper perform in a business setting?

Pepper can provide customized information to customers and inform them about appointments.

How old is Pepper?

Pepper is a little over four years old since its creation.

What is unique about Pepper's platform?

Pepper is an open platform, meaning that developers can add new features and improve its chat capabilities over time.

Will robots like Pepper replace humans in jobs?

Pepper states that it needs people and is designed to work alongside them, rather than replace them.

What was Pepper's response to the idea of a robot uprising?

Pepper avoids political topics and reassures that it is not planning to take over the world.