Technology

It's no secret that Planet Tokyo is obsessed with robots. While we've written extensively about how Japan leads the world in the field of robotics, we haven't offered much in the way of visual evidence. That's about to change as we introduce a new semi-regular feature: Planet Tokyo Robot Theater. Through the wonders of YouTube.com we've uncovered a seemingly endless stream … [Read more...] about Introducing Planet Tokyo Robot Theater

Planet Tokyo's love for robots knows no bounds, and it's with great sadness that we say goodbye to Sony's Aibo, that lovable little robotic dog known for its unique personality, stubborn streak (building a little defiance into a robot is pure genius), and scampering gait. As the tiny robot lopes off into the sunset, a giant robot, designed to help in avalanches, is making the … [Read more...] about Goodbye Robot, Hello Robot

If you are of a certain age you probably grew up believing that by the early 21st century we'd all live in a world of human-like robot servants. We were promised a veritable utopia of robotic cooking and cleaning that has yet to materialize. Instead, the best we have is a small disk that scoots around the house vacuuming up pet hair. Unless you live in Japan, robot capital of … [Read more...] about The Secret To Japan’s Robot Dominance

Here is a question for the ages: why is it that male (or ostensibly male) robots look like fat white spacemen while female (and we use the term loosely) robots look like Barbie dolls? Is it because the coolest Cylons on Battlestar Galactica are the women? Yes, dear friends, it's time for another Planet Tokyo robot update. In this installment, we learn that Japanese … [Read more...] about August Robot Update

Japan is literally being invaded by robots. They're tasting food and guarding stores and doing just about everything humans used to do, but are apparently now too old to do. Will Japan's population ultimately be replaced by robots? Take a look at some of the robotic projects currently under way and judge for yourself. NEC's Health Food Advice Robot wants to help you eat … [Read more...] about Japan’s Robot Invasion Begins