Emotional 'Pepper' robots sell out in one minute in Japan

The initial batch of Pepper robots developed by Japanese mobile carrier SoftBank Corp and manufactured by Taiwan's Foxconn Technology Group sold out in one minute on the first day it went on sale in Japan.

The 1,000 Pepper robots available for purchase in June sold out in 60 seconds when online orders started at 10 am on Saturday, according to a statement from SoftBank Robotics Corp, a robotics venture formed by SoftBank, Foxconn and Chinese e-commerce leader Alibaba Group.

Orders are no longer being taken and additional sales of Pepper, which sells for 198,000 yen (US$1,625), are scheduled to be announced on SoftBank's website in July.

In addition to Pepper's emotion recognition functions, the robot generates emotions autonomously by processing information from its cameras, touch sensors, accelerometer and other sensors within its "endocrine-type multi-layer neural network," SoftBank said.

The L2 incremental encoder uses US Digital's proven EM1 optical encoder module and disk, which has billions of device-hours of dependable service in customer applications. This product continues US Digital's strong reputation for reliable, field-tested encoders. The L2 is US Digital's lowest height encoder that uses the EM1 module. It has a 0.75 in. bolt-spacing mount. The maximum resolution is 1250 CPR (5000 PPR with quadrature). The L2 comes with a single-ended output. Another benefit of the L2 incremental encoder is its fast installation. The cover snaps onto the base to secure the module. It is designed for use with a high-retention connector or cable (sold separately). Like all US Digital products, the L2 is designed and manufactured in Vancouver, Washington, USA. It is backed by prompt access to our technical and customer service teams with same-day shipping on most orders.

Emotional 'Pepper' robots sell out in one minute in Japan

Featured Product

US Digital's New L2 Low Profile Motor Encoder

More Industrial Automation, Robots and Unmanned Vehicles Resources