Osaka Metro tests humanoid station staff using Gemini AI

Osaka Metro, KDDI, and AVITA are conducting a demonstration experiment using humanoid robots to provide passenger assistance at Umeda and Tanimachi Kyuchome stations in Osaka. Running from August 31 to September 15, the project aims to test the practical application of physical AI in addressing labor shortages caused by an aging population.

The humanoids, designed by AVITA President Hiroshi Ishiguro, are equipped with Google’s Gemini AI. This technology allows the robots to detect nuances in a user’s voice, such as tone, speed, and emotion, enabling low-latency, natural communication. The robots will wear Osaka Metro uniforms and provide information on station layouts, transfer routes, and local tourist attractions in multiple languages, including English and Chinese.

In addition to verbal guidance, the humanoids feature a built-in display that shows QR codes. Passengers can scan these codes with their smartphones to receive detailed route maps and directions. The experiment seeks to evaluate customer acceptance and the technical challenges of deploying autonomous humanoid staff in high-traffic transit environments.