Sophia the robot could arrive in airports and shops across UK

Sophia the Robot

Credit: Xinhua / Barcroft Images 

The company behind a life-size robot that uses artificial intelligence to hold conversations with humans is set to begin a mass rollout of the devices later this year as the pandemic increases demand for robots.

Sophia the robot has become a mainstay of technology conferences around the world thanks to the robot’s ability to converse with human beings.

Now, Hong Kong business Hanson Robotics, which developed the prototypes, is preparing to enter mass-production to allow businesses, such as airports and shops, to purchase their own Sophia robot to interact with customers and employees.

Chief executive David Hanson told Reuters that his business will begin producing robots in the first half of 2021 to sell to customers after years of showing off Sophia’s abilities.

“The world of Covid-19 is going to need more and more automation to keep people safe,” Mr Hanson said. He aims to sell “thousands” of the devices and is preparing to start production of four different models of robot to sell to airlines and hospitality businesses.

“Sophia and Hanson robots are unique by being so human-like,” he told Reuters. “That can be so useful during these times where people are terribly lonely and socially isolated.”

Alongside the Sophia robot, Hanson Robotics will also sell a new model named Grace that has been designed to care for the elderly.

A series of technology businesses are hoping that the pandemic has encouraged people to embrace technology and use robots in their everyday lives.

The recent Consumer Electronics Show this month saw a number of robots unveiled to the public. LG, the South Korean electronics business, announced a robot that can wheel itself around offices and hospitals to disinfect surfaces.

French technology company CareClever also announced its Cutii robots designed to keep the elderly company. The devices are fitted with large video screens to help people hold video calls with relatives who may not be able to visit due to the pandemic.