The anthropomorphic robot Pepper first hit the Japanese market in 2015. Today, it is being marketed to businesses across the United States and Europe. With its endearing eyes, this robot can speak, move on wheels, perform minor chores, and crack jokes. In Austria, researchers at the Vienna University of Technology are using Pepper as part of their studies. It is fascinating to observe how individuals—particularly children—quickly develop a sense of connection with the robot. Yet, just how human-like is this machine in reality?
Sandy Verhoeve
