Scientists at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have unveiled the world’s most human-like robot, ‘Nadine,’ who has a “personality, mood and emotions.” Scientists say that socially intelligent robots like Nadine can become the part of the workforce one day.
Nadine has begun her work as a university receptionist and the researchers foresee that this new technology will eventually provide childcare and offer friendship to lonely elderly people.
Powered by intelligent software similar to Apple’s Siri or Microsoft’s Cortana, Nadine not only has a personality, but she is also emotional… she can be happy or sad, depending on the topic or situation.
Nadine makes eye contact and shakes hands while greeting visitors. She also has a good memory and she recognizes past guests and also makes conversation based on previous chats.
Prof. Nadia Thalmann, the director of the Institute for Media, NTU, said, “As countries worldwide face challenges of an aging population, social robots can be one solution to address the shrinking workforce, become personal companions for children and the elderly at home, and even serve as a platform for healthcare services in the future.”
Thalmann added, “This is somewhat like a real companion that is always with you and conscious of what is happening, so in the future, these socially intelligent robots could be like C–3PO…with knowledge of language and etiquette.”
