Softbank’s Pepper robot launched in Japan last year and now the company is launching the device in Taiwan.
The Pepper Robot is being sold in Taiwan by Perobot, a company owned by Foxconn. Foxconn and Alibaba previously invested $236 million in Softbank Robotic Holdings, the developers of Pepper.
Pepper’s Popularity and Business Model
Pepper has been immensely popular in Japan, where he is rented out to businesses for a monthly fee of about $440 over a three-year period. This rental model has proven to be quite successful, allowing businesses to integrate advanced robotics into their operations without a significant upfront investment. Pepper is designed to interact with people and can be used in various settings such as retail stores, banks, and even healthcare facilities. His ability to recognize faces and emotions makes him a versatile tool for customer service and engagement.
In Japan, Pepper has been employed in various innovative ways. For instance, in retail environments, he can greet customers, provide product information, and even assist with purchases. In healthcare, Pepper can offer companionship to elderly patients, reminding them to take their medications and providing a source of interaction that can be crucial for mental health.
Expansion into Taiwan and Future Prospects
The launch of Pepper in Taiwan marks the robot’s first overseas expansion. This move is significant as it demonstrates Softbank’s confidence in Pepper’s ability to succeed in international markets. Taiwan’s tech-savvy population and advanced infrastructure make it an ideal location for Pepper’s first foray outside Japan.
Perobot, the company responsible for selling Pepper in Taiwan, is leveraging its relationship with Foxconn to ensure a smooth market entry. Foxconn’s extensive experience in manufacturing and technology provides a strong backbone for this venture. Additionally, Alibaba’s investment highlights the growing interest in robotics and artificial intelligence from major tech players.
As yet, there are no details on when Pepper will be available in the US. However, the success in Japan and the anticipated success in Taiwan could pave the way for future expansions. The US market presents a significant opportunity for Pepper, given the country’s large and diverse economy. Potential applications in the US could range from customer service roles in retail and hospitality to more specialized roles in healthcare and education.
Pepper’s adaptability and advanced features make him a strong candidate for various industries. For example, in the hospitality industry, Pepper could be used to check guests into hotels, provide information about local attractions, and even assist with room service. In education, Pepper could serve as an interactive teaching assistant, helping to engage students in new and innovative ways.
The future of robotics is promising, and Pepper is at the forefront of this technological revolution. As more businesses and industries recognize the potential benefits of integrating robots like Pepper into their operations, we can expect to see a growing demand for such advanced solutions.
As soon as we get more details on Pepper’s availability in other markets, including the US, we will let you guys know.
Source TechCrunch
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