Government program unveils robot prototype

Prototype robots developed by startups and others in Japan have been unveiled in Tokyo as part of the Japanese government's initiative to promote the development of domestic artificial intelligence.

The prototype upper-body humanoid robots enhance technologies developed by seven companies, including startups and a machine-tool manufacturer.

They were showcased at a hotel in Tokyo on Wednesday.

The robots mirror the arm and hand movements of the operator through a wearable device.

Visitors watched the robots transfer food and drinks from one container to another and hammer nails.

Developers aim to eventually have the robots powered by physical AI so they can make their own decisions and execute tasks.

For the time being, they will collect motion data through the prototypes with the aim of developing versatile physical AI that will operate robots autonomously in various scenarios.

The AI Robot Association leads the government initiative to back development of domestic AI. Its chairperson, Ogata Tetsuya, said real-world data is extremely valuable when putting robots in motion based on AI.

He said it is important that a framework is created that will allow multiple firms to share data.