Japan vs American: Robot Differences

We all know there are many cultural differences between Japanese and Americans, but apparently that also extends to their taste and preferences in robots.

According to Jeff Yang at the San Francisco Chronicle, it boils down to this …

Fun vs. Function

Or, in robot lingo, the Repliee humanoid robot versus the Roomba vacuum cleaner!

It looks like American paranoia with robots mimicking humans, takes precedent over robots with personality.

On the other hand, Japan is pouring billions into robotic research to help their aging populations. Unlike the task-based robots in the US (like the iRobot Roomba), Japanese firms are actively focusing on developing robots emotionally acceptable to humans.

Over here, innovators like Hanson Robotics do not enjoy mainstream acceptance, while in Japan humanoid robots regularly get mobbed, like pop stars. Makes you think …