Last month we heard that the SoftBank Pepper robot had received around $236 million in funding and now the company has revealed how much the device will cost businesses.
SoftBank intends to rent their Pepper Robot to businesses and it will cost $440 a month. This rental agreement spans over three years, so essentially, the device will cost around $15,940 to rent. This pricing strategy is designed to make the Pepper Robot accessible to a wide range of businesses, from small retail stores to large corporations.
Features and Capabilities of the Pepper Robot
The Pepper Robot is not just any ordinary robot; it is designed with advanced capabilities to interact with humans in a meaningful way. The robot is equipped with a variety of sensors, cameras, and microphones that allow it to understand and respond to human emotions. This makes it an ideal candidate for roles that require customer interaction, such as greeting shoppers in a store or assisting customers at a reception desk in a business.
One of the standout features of the Pepper Robot is its ability to recognize faces and basic human emotions. This allows it to provide personalized interactions, making customers feel more welcomed and valued. For instance, in a retail setting, Pepper can greet customers by name, offer product recommendations based on their previous purchases, and even assist in locating items within the store.
The company recently sold 1,000 units of the consumer version of their SoftBank Pepper Robot. This version was made available in a limited quantity for $1,610. The consumer version is designed for personal use, offering features such as home automation control, entertainment, and even companionship for elderly individuals.
Business Applications and Future Prospects
The business version of the Pepper Robot will be made available to enterprises on the 1st of October. This version is tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses, offering functionalities that can significantly enhance customer service and operational efficiency. For example, in a hotel setting, Pepper can assist guests with check-in procedures, provide information about local attractions, and even handle basic concierge services.
Moreover, the Pepper Robot can be integrated with existing business systems to provide a seamless experience. For instance, it can be connected to a company’s CRM system to access customer data and provide personalized service. This level of integration can lead to improved customer satisfaction and increased loyalty.
SoftBank’s vision for Pepper extends beyond just customer service. The company is exploring various applications in healthcare, education, and even entertainment. In healthcare, Pepper can assist in patient monitoring and provide companionship to patients, reducing the workload on healthcare professionals. In education, the robot can serve as an interactive teaching assistant, making learning more engaging for students.
The future prospects for the Pepper Robot are promising, as advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics continue to evolve. SoftBank is committed to continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that Pepper remains at the forefront of robotic technology.
Source TechCrunch
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