Softbank launched their Pepper robot in Japan back in June and now this new robot is getting ready to launch in Europe.
The Pepper Robot is currently being tested out in a Carrefour store in Paris, there are seven robots at the store which are helping out shoppers with their shopping.
Pepper’s Role in Carrefour Stores
Carrefour is a food store and the robots are suggesting recipes to people and also helping them out with choosing their wine. The robots are designed to interact with customers in a friendly and engaging manner, making the shopping experience more enjoyable. They can answer questions, provide product information, and even entertain children while their parents shop. This innovative approach aims to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline the shopping process.
In addition to suggesting recipes and helping with wine selection, Pepper robots can also assist with locating items in the store, providing information on promotions, and even offering cooking tips. This level of interaction not only helps customers but also frees up human staff to focus on more complex tasks, improving overall efficiency in the store.
Sales and Expansion Plans
Since the robot launched in June, Softbank has been selling around 1,000 units a month. The device is sold with an upfront payment of €1,500 and then monthly payments of €200 a month for three years. This pricing model makes it accessible for businesses looking to incorporate advanced robotics into their operations without a significant initial investment.
Softbank is looking to launch the device in Europe shortly, as yet there are no details on the exact launch date. However, the successful trial in Carrefour stores indicates a promising future for Pepper in the European market. The company is likely to expand its presence in other retail environments, such as electronics stores, clothing boutiques, and even restaurants, where Pepper can take orders and provide customer service.
The potential applications for Pepper extend beyond retail. In healthcare, Pepper could assist patients with information and guidance, while in education, it could serve as an interactive teaching assistant. The versatility of the robot makes it a valuable asset in various industries.
Moreover, Softbank is continuously working on improving Pepper’s capabilities. Future updates may include enhanced language processing, better integration with other technologies, and more advanced artificial intelligence features. These improvements will further increase Pepper’s utility and appeal to a broader range of businesses.
The Pepper robot represents a significant advancement in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. Its ability to interact with customers in a meaningful way sets it apart from other robotic solutions. As Softbank prepares to launch Pepper in Europe, the positive reception in Japan and the successful trial in Carrefour stores suggest a bright future for this innovative technology.
Source , Digital Trends
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